Class 
Book 







/ 



THE 



HI 8TOET 









STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



ILLIx\OIS, 



CONTAINING 



% ]| istorq; uF lip Somthj, its Stltes, Uoums, &t., 






Biographical Sketches of Citizens, War Record of its Volunteers 

< in the late Rebellion, General and Local Statistics, Portraits 

of Early Settlers and Prominent Men, History of the 

Northwest, History of Illinois, Map of Stephenson 

County, Constitution of the United States, 

Miscellaneous Matters, &c, &e. 

&4 $71 • &y ■ 



ILIiTTSTDR.A.TIEI}. 




CHICAGO : 

WESTERN HISTORICAL COMPANY, 

1880. 



PREFACE. 



rj^HE following pages, assuming to relate a history of Stephenson County from 

its earliest settlement to the present day, owe their appearance to the enter- 
prise of an historical company, supplemented by the demand of a generous pub- 
lic. In its preparation, sources of information have been sought and appropria- 
tions freely made from presumably authentic data. No claim is made to origin- 
ality, and numerous mistakes will doubtless be discovered, especially by those 
disposed to be hypercritical. In a work of such magnitude, these are unavoid- 
able. 

The author cannot pretend to have acquitted himself to his own satisfac- 
tion, though he has labored diligently to furnish a reliable, if yet an imperfect, 
compilation of facts and events which are alleged to have occurred in Stephen- 
son County since the days when Kellogg, Kirker, Robey, Timms and others 
rejoiced to get into the wilderness. Whatever of merit or demerit the book col ' 
tains remains for the reader to discover, and his judgment may be unprejudiced 
if he finds no word of promise on the introductory page. 

In conclusion, he desires to make his acknowledgments to the Pioneers who 
still survive, to the Press, the ' ; cloth," the public officers, County, State and 
Federal, and other mediums of communication, not alone for " history," but for 
many kind acts, and much else that may contribute to whatever of success shall 
greet the succeeding pages. 

A preface is generally regarded as the substitute for an apology. The 
author indulges the hope that, in equaling reasonable expectations, the substi- 
tute will be adopted by his readers. 

M. H. Tilden. 



Chicago, September, 1880. 



\i 



CHICAGO: 
CULVER, PAGE, HOYNE & CO., PRINTERS 

IIS and 120 Monroe Street. 



CONTENTS. 



HISTORY NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



Page. 

History Northwest Territory 19 

Geographical Position 19 

Early Explorations 20 

Discovery of the Ohio 32 

English Explorations and Set- 
tlements 34 

American Settlements 59 

Division of the Northwest Ter- 
ritory , 65 

Tecumseh and the War of 1812 69 
Black Hawk and the Black 
Hawk War 73 



Page. 

History of Ohio 93 

French History 96 

Ordinance of 1787, No. 32 105 

The War of 1812 122 

Banking 126 

The Canal System 128 

Ohio Land Tracts 129 

Improvements 132 

Boundary Lines 136 

Organization of Counties, and 

Early Events 137 

Governors of Ohio 160 



Page. 
History of Ohio: 

Ancient Works 174 

Some General Characteristics...l77 

Outline Geology of Ohio 179 

Ohio's Rank During the War..l82 
A Brief Mention of Prominent 

Ohio Generals 191 

Some Discussed Subjects 196 

Conclusion 200 



Page. 

Source of the Mississippi 22 

La Salle Landing on the Shore of 

Green Bay 24 

Buffalo Hunt 26 

Trapping 28 

Mouth of the Mississippi 31 



ILLUSTRATIONS. 

Page. 

High Bridge 33 

Pontiac, the Ottawa Chieftain 42 

Indians Attacking Frontiersmen.. 55 
Present Site Lake Street Bridge, 

Chicago, 1833 58 

A Pioneer Dwelling 60 



Lake Bluff. 62 

Tecumseh, the Shawanoe Chieftain 68 

Indians Attacking a Stockade 71 

Black Hawk, the Sac Chieftain 74 

Perry's Monument, Cleveland 91 

Niagara Falls 92 



/ 



ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS 



Page. 

Adoption of Children 132 

Bills of Exchange and Promissory 

Notes 123 

County Courts 127 

Conveyances , 136 

Church Organizations 157 

Descent 123 

Deeds and Mortgages 129 

Drainage 135 

Damages from Trespass 139 

Definition of Commercial Terms....l43 

Exemptions from Forced Sales 128 

Estrays 129 

Fences 138 

Forms : 

Articles of Agreement 145 

Bills of Purchase 144 

Bills of Sale 146 

Bonds 146 



Page. 
Forms : 

Chattel Mortgages 147 

Codicil 157 

Lease of Farm and Build- 
ings 149 

Lease of House 150 

Landlord's Agreement 150 

Notes 144 

Notice Tenant to Quit 151 

Orders 144 

Quit Claim Deed 153 

Receipt 144 

Real Estate Mortgaged to Secure 

Payment of Money 151 

Release 154 

Tenant's Agreement 150 

Tenant's Notice of Leaving 151 

Warranty Deed 152 

Will 155 



Page. 

Game 13o 

Interest 123 

Jurisdiction of Courts 126 

Limitation of Action 127 

Landlord and Tenant 139 

Liens 142 

Married Women 127 

Millers 131 

Marks and Brands 131 

Paupers 136 

Roads and Bridges 133 

Surveyors and Surveys 132 

Suggestions to Persons Purchasing 

Bunks by Subscription 168 

Taxes 126 

Wills and Estates 124 

Weigh ts and Measures 130 

Wolf Scalps 136 



Page. 

Map of Stephenson County Front 

Constitution of the U. S 160 

Electors President and Vice Pre-i- 

dent 172 

Practical Rules fur Every Day Use.173 
U. S. Government Land Measure. ..176 
Agi cultural Productions of Illinois 

by Counties, 1870 186 



MISCELLANEOUS. 

Page. 

Surveyors' Measure 177 

How to Keep Accounts 177 

Interest Table 178 

Miscellaneous Tables 178 

Names of the States of the Union 

and their Signification 179 

Population of Fifty Principal Cities 

of the United States 180 



Page. 

Population of the United States 180 

Population of the Principal Coun- 
tries in the World 181 

Population of Illinois 182-183 

State Laws Relatingto Interest 184 

State LawsRelating to Limitations 
of Actions 185 



IV 



CONTENTS. 



BISTORT OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



PAGE. 

Topography 189 

Geological Formations 191 

Quaternary Deposits 193 

Indian Occupation 200 

Indian Troubles — Black Hawk 

War 203 

County Roster 217 

Early Settlements 219 

Mormon Meddlings 262 

Wallace Suicide 267 

The Boardman Murder 269 

Mexican War v 272 

Railroads 273 

Famine of 1848 280 

Township Organization 280 

The Hegira to California, 1849 281 

Cholera Visitations 284 

Completion of the C. & G. U. R. R....285 

Educational Facilities 287 

The Panic of 1857 289 

County Buildings 298 

Stephenson County Society of Phy- 
sicians and Surgeons 301 

Stephenson County Farmer's Co- 
operative Association 301 

Stephenson County Agricultural 

Society 302 

Patrons of Husbandry 303 

Old Settlers' Association 303 

Criminal Records 304 

War Record 308 

Volunteer Roster 315 

Soldiers' Monument 344 



PAGE. 

Agricultural Statistics 361 

Assessment Tables 362-363 

Population, 1880 364 

Freeport 365 

Official Roster 389 

Fire Department 391 

Police 393 

Educational 394 

Press 401 

Water Power 425 

Gas Works 426 

Young Men's Library Associa- 
tion 427 

Banks 427 

German Insurance Company....429 

Telephone Exchange 430 

Post Office 431 

Cemetery 432 

Parks 433 

Opera House 433 

Munn's Building 433 

Fry's Building 434 

Brewster House 434 

Taylor's Driving Park 435 

Religious 436 

Odd Fellows 454 

Masonic 456 

Military 461 

Temperance 462 

Other Societies 463 

Mills 467 

Breweries 468 

Manufactures 470 



PAGE. 

Rock Grove Township 482 

Rock Grove Village 485 

Rock Run Township 486 

Davis 488 

Rock City 492 

Dakota Township 495 

Dakota Village 495 

Silver Creek Township 499 

Loran Township 500 

Jefferson Township 502 

Erin Township 504 

Dublin Settlement 506 

Eleroy 507 

Harlem Township 509 

Kent Township 513 

Ridott Township 515 

Ridott Village 517 

West Point Township 520 

Lena 522 

Buckeye Township 535 

Cedarville 537 

Buckeye Center 542 

Buena Vista 543 

Waddams Township 543 

New Pennsylvania 544- 

Winslow Township 545 

Winslow 550 

Oneco Township 552 

Orangeville 554 

Oneco 560 

Florence Township 560 

Lancaster Township 562 



PORTRAITS. 



PAGE. 

John H. Addanis 277 

Smith D. Atkins 403 

Horatio C. Burchard 367 

A. A. Babcock 385 

Ross Babcock 493 

L. A. Babcock 475 

Thomas Hunt 547 

M. Hettinger 349 



PAGE. 

D. A. Knowlton 295 

Jacob Krohn 439 

A. A. Krape 529 

George W. Loveland 565 

Pells Manny 241 

Chancellor "Martin 189 

L. L. Munn 457 

George Purinton 223 



PAGE. 

C. H. Rosenstiel 313 

V. Stoskopf 331 

Jared Sheetz ...259 

0. H. Wright 205 

Ira Winchell 511 

William Young 421 



TOWNSHIPS. 



PAGE. 

Buckeye 741 

Dakota 769 

Erin 703 

Freeport City 611 

Florence 675 

Harlem 683 



PAGE. 

Jefferson 701 

Kent 663 

Lancaster 752 

Loran 695 

Oneco 710 

Ridott 778 



PAGE. 

Rock Grove 732 

Rock Run 759 

Silver Creek 678 

Waddams 669 

West Point 720 

Winslow 666 







*■**. 




n ae i • 






The Northwest Territory. 



GEOGRAPHICAL POSITION. 

When the Northwestern Territory was ceded to the United States 
by Virginia in 1784, it embraced only the territory lying between the 
Ohio and the Mississippi Rivers, and north to the northern limits of the 
United States. It coincided with the area now embraced in the States 
of Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin, and that portion of 
Minnesota lying on the east side of the Mississippi River. The United 
States itself at that period extended no farther west than the Mississippi 
River ; but by the purchase of Louisiana in 1803, the western boundary 
of the United States was extended to the Rocky Mountains and the 
Northern Pacific Ocean. The new territory thus added to the National 
domain, and subsequently opened to settlement, has been called the 
" New Northwest," in contradistinction from the old " Northwestern 
Territory." 

In comparison with the old Northwest this is a territory of vast 
magnitude. It includes an area of 1,887,850 square miles ; being greater 
in extent than the united areas of all the Middle and Southern States, 
including Texas. Out of this magnificent territory have been erected 
eleven sovereign States and eight Territories, with an aggregate popula- 
tion, at the present time, of 13,000,000 inhabitants, or nearly one third of 
the entire population of the United States. 

Its lakes are fresh-water seas, and the larger rivers of the continent 
flow for a thousand miles through its rich alluvial vallej-s and far- 
stretching prairies, more acres of which are arable and productive of the 
highest percentage of the cereals than of any other area of like extent 
on the globe. 

For the last twenty years the increase of population in the North- 
west has been about as three to one in any other portion of the United 
States. 

(19) 



20 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



EARLY EXPLORATIONS. 

In the year 1541, DeSoto first saw the Great West in the New 
World. He, however, penetrated no farther north than the 35th parallel 
of latitude. The expedition resulted in his death and that of more than 
half his army, the remainder of whom found their way to Cuba, thence 
to Spain, in a famished and demoralized condition. DeSoto founded no 
settlements, produced no results, and left no traces, unless it were that 
he awakened the hostility of the red man against the white man, and 
disheartened such as might desire to follow up the career of discovery 
for better purposes. The French nation were eager and ready to seize 
upon any news from this extensive domain, and were the first to profit by 
DeSoto's defeat. Yet it was more than a century before any adventurer 
took advantage of these discoveries. 

In 1616, four years before the pilgrims " moored their bark on the 
wild New England shore," Le Caron, a French Franciscan, had pene- 
trated through the Iroquois and Wyandots (Hurons) to the streams which 
run into Lake Huron ; and in 1634, two Jesuit missionaries founded the 
first mission among the lake tribes. It was just one hundred years from 
the discovery of the Mississippi by DeSoto (1541) until the Canadian 
envoys met the savage nations of the Northwest at the Falls of St. Mary, 
below the outlet of Lake Superior. This visit led to no permanent 
result; yet it was not until 1659 that any of the adventurous fur traders 
attempted to spend a Winter in the frozen wilds about the great lakes, 
nor was it until 1660 that a station was established upon their borders by 
Mesnard, who perished in the woods a few months after. In 1665, Claude 
Allouez built the earliest lasting habitation of the white man among the 
Indians of the Northwest. In 1668, Claude Dablon and James Marquette 
founded the mission of Sault Ste. Marie at the Falls of St. Mary, and two 
years afterward, Nicholas Perrot, as agent for M. Talon, Governor Gen- 
eral of Canada, explored Lake Illinois (Michigan) as far south as the 
present City of Chicago, and invited the Indian nations to meet him at a 
grand council at Sault Ste. Marie the following Spring, where they were 
taken under the protection of the king, and formal possession was taken 
of the Northwest. This same year Marquette established a mission at 
Point St. Ignatius, where was founded the old town of Michillimackinac. 

During M. Talon's explorations and Marquette's residence at St. 
Ignatius, they learned of a great river away to the west, and fancied 
— as all others did then — that upon its fertile banks whole tribes of God's 
children resided, to whom the sound of the Gospel had never come. 
Filled with a wish to go and preach to them, and in compliance with a 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 21 

request of M. Talon, who earnestly desired to extend the domain of his 
king, and to ascertain whether the river flowed into the Gulf of Mexico 
or the Pacific Ocean, Marquette with Joliet, as commander of the expe- 
dition, prepared for the undertaking. 

On the 13th of May, 1673, the explorers, accompanied by five assist- 
ant French Canadians, set out from Mackinaw on their daring voyage of 
discovery. The Indians, who gathered to witness their departure, were 
astonished at the boldness of the undertaking, and endeavored to dissuade 
them from their purpose by representing the tribes on the Mississippi as 
exceedingly savage and cruel, and the river itself as full of all sorts of 
frightful monsters ready to swallow them and their canoes together. But, 
nothing daunted by these terrific descriptions, Marquette told them he 
was willing not only to encounter all the perils of the unknown region 
they were about to explore, but to lay down his life in a cause in which 
the salvation of souls was involved ; and having prayed together they 
separated. Coasting along the northern shore of Lake Michigan, the 
adventurers entered Green Bay, and passed thence up the Fox River and 
Lake Winnebago to a village of the Miamis and Kickapoos. Here Mar- 
quette was delighted to find a beautiful cross planted in the middle of the 
town ornamented with white skins, red girdles and bows and arrows, 
which these good people had offered to the Great Manitou, or God, to 
thank him for the pity he had bestowed on them during the Winter in 
giving them an abundant " chase." This was the farthest outpost to 
which Dablon and Allouez had extended their missionary labors the 
year previous. Here Marquette drank mineral waters and was instructed 
in the secret of a root which cures the bite of the venomous rattlesnake. 
He assembled the chiefs and old men of the village, and, pointing to 
Joliet, said : " My friend is an envoy of France, to discover new coun- 
tries, and I am an ambassador from God to enlighten them with the truths 
of the Gospel." Two Miami guides were here furnished to conduct 
them to the Wisconsin River, and they set out from the Indian village on 
the 10th of June, amidst a great crowd of natives who had assembled to 
witness their departure into a region where no white man had ever yet 
ventured. The guides, having conducted them across the portage, 
returned. The explorers launched their canoes upon the Wisconsin, 
which they descended to the Mississippi and proceeded down its unknown 
waters. What emotions must have swelled their breasts as they struck 
out into the broadening current and became conscious that they were 
now upon the bosom of ths Father of Waters. The mystery was about 
to be lifted from the long-sought river. The scenery in that locality is 
beautiful, and on that delightful seventeenth of June must have been 
clad in all its primeval loveliness as it had been adorned by the hand of 



22 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



Nature. Drifting rapidly, it is said that the bold bluffs on either hand 
" reminded them of the castled shores of their own beautiful rivers of 
France." By-and-by, as they drifted along, great herds of buffalo appeared 
on the banks. On going to the heads of the valley they could see a 
country of the greatest beauty and fertility, apparently destitute of inhab- 
itants yet presenting the appearance of extensive manors, under the fas- 
tidious cultivation of lordly proprietors. 




SOURCE OF THE MISSISSIPPI. 



On June 25, they went ashore and found some fresh traces of men upon 
the sand, and a path which led to the prairie. The men remained in the 
boat, and Marquette and Joliet followed the path till they discovered a 
village on the banks of a river, and two other villages on a hill, within a 
half league of the first, inhabited by Indians. They were received most 
hospitably by these natives, who had never before seen a white person. 
After remaining a few days they re-embarked and descended the river to 
about latitude 33°, where they found a village of the Arkansas, and being 
satisfied that the river flowed into the Gulf of Mexico, turned their course 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 23 

up the river, and ascending the stream to the mouth of the Illinois, 
rowed up that stream to its source, and procured guides from that point 
to the lakes. " Nowhere on this journey," says Marquette, " did we see 
such grounds, meadows, woods, stags, buffaloes, deer, wildcats, bustards, 
swans, ducks, parroquets, and even beavers, as on the Illinois River." 
The party, without loss or injury, reached Green Bay in September, and 
reported their discovery — one of the most important of the age, but of 
which no record was preserved save Marquette's, Joliet losing his by 
the upsetting of his canoe on his way to Quebec. Afterward Marquette 
returned to the Illinois Indians by their request, and ministered to them 
until 1675. On the 18th of May, in that year, as he was passing the 
mouth of a stream — going with his boatmen up Lake Michigan — he asked 
to land at its mouth and celebrate Mass. Leaving his men with the canoe, 
he retired a short distance and began his devotions. As much time 
passed and he did not return, his men went in search of him, and found 
him upon his knees, dead. He had peacefully passed away while at 
prayer. He was buried at this spot. Charlevoix, who visited the place 
fifty years after, found the waters had retreated from the grave, leaving 
the beloved missionary to repose in peace. The river has since been 
called Marquette. 

While Marquette and his companions were pursuing their labors in 
the West, two men, differing widely from him and each other, were pre- 
paring to follow in his footsteps and perfect the discoveries so well begun 
by him. These were Robert de La Salle and Louis Hennepin. 

After La Salle's return from the discovery of the Ohio River (see 
the narrative elsewhere), he established himself again among the French 
trading posts in Canada. Here he mused long upon the pet project of 
those ages — a short way to China and the East, and was busily planning an 
expedition up the great lakes, and so across the continent to the Pacific, 
when Marquette returned from the Mississippi. At once the vigorous mind 
of LaSalle received from his and his companions' stories the idea that by fol- 
lowing the Great River northward, or by turning up some of the numerous 
western tributaries, the object could easily be gained. He applied to 
Prontenac, Governor General of Canada, and laid before him the plan, 
dim but gigantic. Frontenac entered warmly into his plans, and saw that 
LaSalle's idea to connect the great lakes by a chain of forts with the Gulf 
of Mexico would bind the country so wonderfully together, give un- 
measured power to France, and glory to himself, under whose adminis- 
tration he earnestly hoped all would be realized. 

LaSalle now repaired to France, laid his plans before the King, who 
warmly approved of them, and made him a Chevalier. He also received 
from all the noblemen the warmest wishes for his success. The Chev- 



24 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



alier returned to Canada, and busily entered upon his work. He at 
once rebuilt Fort Frontenac and constructed the first ship to sail on 
these fresh-water seas. On the 7th of August, 1679, having been joined 
by Hennepin, he began his voyage in the Griffin up Lake Erie. He 
passed over this lake, through the straits beyond, up Lake St. Clair and 
into Huron. In this lake they encountered heavy storms. They were 
some time at Michillimackinac, where LaSalle founded a fort, and passed 
on to Green Bay, the " Baie des Puans" of the French, where he found 
a large quantity of furs collected for him. He loaded the Griffin with 
these, and placing her under the care of a pilot and fourteen sailors, 




LA SALLE LANDING ON THE SHORE OF GREEN BAY. 

started her on her return voyage. The vessel was never afterward heard 
of. He remained about these parts until early in the Winter, when, hear- 
ing nothing from the Griffin, he collected all the men — thirty working 
men and three monks— and started again upon his great undertaking. 

By a short portage they passed to the Illinois or Kankakee, called by 
the Indians, "Theakeke," wolf, because of the tribes of Indians called 
by that name, commonly known as the Mahingans, dwelling there. The 
French pronounced it Kiakiki, which became corrupted to Kankakee. 
"Falling down the said river by easy journeys, the better to observe the 
country," about the last of December they reached a village of the Illi- 
nois Indians, containing some five hundred cabins, but at that moment 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 25 

no inhabitants. The Seur de LaSalle being in want of some breadstuff's, 
took advantage of the absence of the Indians to help himself to a suffi- 
ciency of maize, large quantities of which he found concealed in holes 
under the wigwams. This village was situated near the present village 
of Utica in LaSalle County, Illinois. The corn being securely stored, 
the voyagers again betook themselves to the stream, and toward evening, 
on the 4th day of January, 1680, they came into a lake which must have 
been the lake of Peoria. This was called by the Indians Pim-i-te-wi, that 
is, a place where there are many fat beasts. Here the natives were met 
with in large numbers, but they were gentle and kind, and having spent 
some time with them, LaSalle determined to erect another fort in that 
place, for he had heard rumors that some of the adjoining tribes were 
trying to disturb the good feeling which existed, and some of his men 
were disposed to complain, owing to the hardships and perils of the travel. 
He called this fort " Orevecoeur'''' (broken-heart), a name expressive of the 
very natural sorrow and anxiety which the pretty certain loss of his ship. 
Griffin, and his consequent impoverishment, the danger of hostility on the 
part of the Indians, and of mutiny among his own men, might well cause 
him. His fears were not entirely groundless. At one time poison was 
placed in his food, but fortunately was discovered. 

While building this fort, the Winter wore away, the prairies began to 
look green, and LaSalle, despairing of any reinforcements, concluded to 
return to Canada, raise new means and new men, and embark anew in 
the enterprise. For this purpose he made Hennepin the leader of a party 
to explore the head waters of the Mississippi, and he set out on his jour- 
ney. This journey was accomplished with the aid of a few persons, and 
was successfully made, though over an almost unknown route, and in a 
bad season of the year. He safely reached Cana ia, and set out again for 
the object of his search. 

Hennepin and his party left Fort Crevecoeur on the last of February, 
1680. When LaSalle reached this place on his return expedition, he 
found the fort entirely deserted, and he was obliged to return again to 
Canada. He embarked the third time, and succeeded. Seven days after 
leaving the fort, Hennepin reached the Mississippi, and paddling up the 
icy stream as best he could, reached no higher than the Wisconsin River 
by the 11th of April. Here he and his followers were taken prisoners by a 
band of Northern Indians, who treated them with great kindness. Hen- 
nepin's comrades were Anthony Auguel and Michael Ako. On this voy- 
age they found several beautiful lakes, and " saw some charming prairies." 
Their captors were the Isaute or Sauteurs, Chippewas, a tribe of the Sioux 
nation, who took them up the river until about the first of May, when 
they reached some falls, which Hennepin christened Falls of St. Anthony 



26 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



in honor of his patron saint. Here they took the land, and traveling 
nearly two hundred miles to the northwest, brought them to their villages. 
Here they were kept about three months, were treated kindly by their 
captors, and at the end of that time, were met by a band of Frenchmen, 




BUFFALO HUNT. 



headed by one Seur de Luth, who, in pursuit of trade and game, had pene- 
trated thus far by the route of Lake Superior ; and with these fellow- 
countrymen Hennepin and his companions were allowed to return to the 
borders of civilized life in November, 1680, just after LaSalle had 
returned to the wilderness on his second trip. Hennepin soon after went 
to France, where he published an account of his adventures. 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 27 

The Mississippi was first discovered by De Soto in April, 1541, in his 
vain endeavor to find gold and precious gems. In the following Spring, 
De Soto, weary with hope long deferred, and worn out with his wander- 
ings, fell a victim to disease, and on the 21st of May died. His followers, 
reduced by fatigue and disease to less than three hundred men, wandered 
about the country nearly a year, in the vain endeavor to rescue them- 
selves by land, and finally constructed seven small vessels, called brig- 
antines, in which they embarked, and descending the river, supposing it 
would lead them to the sea, in July they came to the sea (Gulf of 
Mexico), and by September reached the Island of Cuba. 

They were the first to see the great outlet of the Mississippi; but, 
being so weary and discouraged, made no attempt to claim the country, 
and hardly had an intelligent idea of what they had passed through. 

To La Salle, the intrepid explorer, belongs the honor of giving the 
first account of the mouths of the river. His great desire was to possess 
this entire country for his king, and in January, 1682, he and his band of 
explorers left the shores of Lake Michigan on their third attempt, crossed 
the Portage, passed down the Illinois River, and on the 6th of February 
reached the banks of the Mississippi. 

On the 13th they commenced their downward course, which they 
pursued with but one interruption, until upon the 6th of March they dis- 
covered the three great passages by which the river discharges its waters 
into the gulf. La Salle thus narrates the event : 

" We landed on the bank of the most western channel, about three 
leagues (nine miles) from its mouth. On the seventh, M. de La Salle 
went to reconnoiter the shores of the neighboring sea, and M. de Tonti 
meanwhile examined the great middle channel. They found the main 
outlets beautiful, large and deep. On the eighth we reascended the river, 
a little above its confluence with the sea, to find a dry place beyond the 
reach of inundations. The elevation of the North Pole was here about 
twenty-seven degrees. Here we prepared a column and a cross, and to 
the column were affixed the arms of France with this inscription : 

" Louis Le Grand, Roi de France et de Navarre, regne ; Le neuvieme April, 1682." 

The whole party, under arms, chanted the Te Deum, and then, after 
a salute and cries of " Vive le Hoi" the column was erected by M. de 
La Salle, who, standing near it, proclaimed in a loud voice the authority of 
the King of France. La Salle returned and laid the foundations of the Mis- 
sissippi settlements in Illinois ; thence he proceeded to France, where 
another expedition was fitted out, of which he was commander, and in two 
succeeding voyages failed to find the outlet of the river by sailing along 
the shore of the gulf. On the third voyage he was killed, through the 



28 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



treachery of his followers, and the object of his expeditions was not 
accomplished until 1699, when D'Iberville, under the authority of the 
crown, discovered, on the second of March, by way of the sea, the mouth 
of the " Hidden River." This majestic stream was called by the natives 
" Malbouchia" and by the Spaniards, " la Palissade" from the great 



^ 



^M^j 




A/ } 9 







^S^lpttwV^ 



TRAPPING. 

number of trees about its mouth. After traversing the several outlets, 
and satisfying himself as to its certainty, he erected a fort near its western 
outlet, and returned to France. 

An avenue of trade was now opened out which was fully improved. 
In 1718, New Orleans was laid out and settled by some European colo- 
nists. In 1762, the colony was made over to Spain, to be regained by 
France under the consulate of Napoleon. In 1803, it was purchased by 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 29 

the United States for the sum of fifteen million dollars, and the territory 
of Louisiana and commerce of the Mississippi River came under the 
charge of the United States. Although LaSalle's labors ended in defeat 
and death, he had not worked and suffered in vain. He had thrown 
open to France and the world an immense and most valuable country ; 
had established several ports, and laid the foundations of more than one 
settlement there. " Peoria, Kaskaskia and Cahokia, are to this day monu- 
ments of LaSalle's labors ; for, though he had founded neither of them 
(unless Peoria, which was built nearly upon the site of Fort Crevecceur,) 
it was by those whom he led into the West that these places were 
peopled and civilized. He was, if not the discoverer, the first settler of 
the Mississippi Valley, and as such deserves to be known and honored." 

The French early improved the opening made for them. Before the 
year 1698, the Rev. Father Gravier began a mission among the Illinois, 
and founded Kaskaskia. For some time this was merely a missionary 
station, where none but natives resided, it being one of three such vil- 
lages, the other two being Cahokia and Peoria. What is known of 
these missions is learned from a letter written by Father Gabriel Marest, 
dated " Aux Cascaskias, autrement dit de lTmmaculate Conception de 
la Sainte Vierge, le 9 Noveinbre, 1712." Soon after the founding of 
Kaskaskia, the missionary, Pinet, gathered a flock at Cahokia, while 
Peoria arose near the ruins of Fort Crevecceur. This must have been 
about the year 1700. The post at Vincennes on the Oubache river, 
(pronounced Wa-ba, meaning summer cloud moving swiftly} was estab- 
lished in 1702, according to the best authorities.* It is altogether prob- 
able that on LaSalle's last trip he established the stations at Kaskaskia 
and Cahokia. In July, 1701, the foundations of Fort Ponchartrain 
were laid by De la Motte Cadillac on the Detroit River. These sta- 
tions, with those established further north, were the earliest attempts to 
occupy the Northwest Territory. At the same time efforts were being 
made to occupy the Southwest, which finally culminated in the settle- 
ment and founding of the City of New Orleans by a colony from England 
in 1718. This was mainly accomplished through the efforts of the 
famous Mississippi Company, established by the notorious John Law, 
who so quickly arose into prominence in France, and who with his 
scheme so quickly and so ignominiously passed away. 

From the time of the founding of these stations for fifty years the 
French nation were engrossed with the settlement of the lower Missis- 
sippi, and the war with the Chicasaws, who had, in revenge for repeated 

« There is considerable dispute about this date, some asserting it was founded as late as 1742. When 
the new court house at Vincennes was erected, all authorities on the subject were, carefully examined, and 
1702 fixed upon as the correct date. It was accordingly engraved on the corner-stone of the court house. 



30 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

injuries, cut off the entire colony at Natchez. Although the company 
did little for Louisiana, as the entire West was then called, yet it opened 
the trade through the Mississippi River, and started the raising of grains 
indigenous to that climate. Until the year 1750, but little is known of 
the settlements in the Northwest, as it was not until this time that the 
attention of the English was called to the occupation of this portion of the 
New World, which they then supposed they owned. Vivier, a missionary 
among the Illinois, writing from " Aux Illinois," six leagues from Fort 
Chartres, June 8, 1750, says: "We have here whites, negroes and 
Indians, to say nothing of cross-breeds. There are five French villages, 
and three villages of the natives, within a space of twenty-one leagues 
situated between the Mississippi and another river called the Karkadaid 
(Kaskaskias). In the five French villages are, perhaps, eleven hundred 
whites, three hundred blacks and some sixty red slaves or savages. The 
three Illinois towns do not contain more than eight hundred souls all 
told. Most of the French till the soil ; they raise wheat, cattle, pigs and 
horses, and live like princes. Three times as much is produced as can 
be consumed ; and great quantities of grain and flour are sent to New 
Orleans." This city was now the seaport town of the Northwest, and 
save in the extreme northern part, where only furs and copper ore were 
found, almost all the products of the country found their way to France 
by the mouth of the Father of Waters. In another letter, dated Novem- 
ber 7, 1750, this same priest says : " For fifteen leagues above the 
mouth of the Mississippi one sees no dwellings, the ground being too low 
to be habitable. Thence to New Orleans, the lands are only partially 
occupied. New Orleans contains black, white and red, not more, I 
think, than twelve hundred persons. To this point come all lumber, 
bricks, salt-beef, tallow, tar, skins and bear's grease ; and above all, pork 
and flour from the Illinois. These things create some commerce, as forty 
vessels and more have come hither this year. Above New Orleans, 
plantations are again met with ; the most considerable is a colony of 
Germans, some ten leagues up the river. At Point Coupee, thirty -five 
leagues above the German settlement, is a fort. Along here, within five 
or six leagues, are not less than sixty habitations. Fifty leagues farther 
up is the Natchez post, where we have a garrison, who are kept prisoners 
through fear of the Chickasaws. Here and at Point Coupee, they raise 
excellent tobacco. Another hundred leagues brings us to the Arkansas, 
where we have also a fort and a garrison for the benefit of the river 
traders. * * * From the Arkansas to the Illinois, nearly five hundred 
leagues, there is not a settlement. There should be, however, a fort at 
the Oubache (Ohio), the only path by which the English can reach the 
Mississippi. In the Illinois country are numberless mines, but no one to 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



31 



work them as they deserve." Father Marest, writing from the post at 
Vincennes in 181 2, makes the same observation. Vivier also says : " Some 
individuals dig lead near the surface and supply the Indians and Canada. 
Two Spaniards now here, who claim to be adepts, say that our mines are 
like those of Mexico, and that if we would dig deeper, we should find 
silver under the lead ; and at any rate the lead is excellent. There is also 
in this country, beyond doubt, copper ore, as from time to time large 
pieces are found in the streams." 




MOUTH OP THE MISSISSIPPI. 



At the close of the year 1750, the French occupied, in addition to the 
lower Mississippi posts and those in Illinois, one at Du Quesne, one at 
the Maumee in the country of the Miamis, and one at Sandusky in what 
may be termed the Ohio Valley. In the northern part of the Northwest 
they had stations at St. Joseph's on the St. Joseph's of Lake Michigan, 
at Fort Ponchartrain (Detroit), at Michillimackanac or Massillimacanac, 
Fox River of Green Bay, and at Sault Ste. Marie. The fondest dreams of 
LaSalle were now fully realized. The French alone were possessors of 
this vast realm, basing their claim on discovery and settlement. Another 
nation, however, was now turning its attention to this extensive country, 



32 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

and hearing of its wealth, began to lay plans for occupying it and for 
securing the great profits arising therefrom. 

The French, however, had another claim to this country, namely, the 



DISCOVERY OF THE OHIO. 

This " Beautiful" river was discovered by Robert Cavalier de La- 
Salle in 1669, four years before the discovery of the Mississippi by Joliet 
and Marquette. 

While LaSalle was at his trading post on the St. Lawrence, he found 
leisure to study nine Indian dialects, the chief of which was the Iroquois. 
He not only desired to facilitate his intercourse in trade, but he longed 
to travel and explore the unknown regions of the West. An incident 
soon occurred which decided him to fit out an exploring expedition. 

While conversing with some Senecas, he learned of a river called the 
Ohio, which rose in their country and flowed to the sea, but at such a 
distance that it required eight months to reach its mouth. In this state- 
ment the Mississippi and its tributaries were considered as one stream. 
LaSalle believing, as most of the French at that period did, that the great 
rivers flowing west emptied into the Sea of California, was anxious to 
embark in the enterprise of discovering a route across the continent to 
the commerce of China and Japan. 

He repaired at once to Quebec to obtain the approval of the Gov- 
ernor. His eloquent appeal prevailed. The Governor and the Intendant, 
Talon, issued letters patent authorizing the enterprise, but made no pro- 
vision to defray the expenses. At this juncture the seminary of St. Sul- 
pice decided to send out missionaries in connection with the expedition, 
and LaSalle offering to sell his improvements at LaChine to raise money, 
the offer was accepted by the Superior, and two thousand eight hundred 
dollars were raised, with which LaSalle purchased four canoes and the 
necessary supplies for the outfit. 

On the 6th of July, 1669, the party, numbering twenty-four persons, 
embarked in seven canoes on the St. Lawrence ; two additional canoes 
carried the Indian guides. In three days they were gliding over the 
bosom of Lake Ontario. Their guides conducted them directly to the 
Seneca village on the bank of the Genesee, in the vicinity of the present 
City of Rochester, New York. Here they expected to procure guides to 
conduct them to the Ohio, but in this they were disappointed. 

The Indians seemed unfriendly to the enterprise. LaSalle suspected 
that the Jesuits had prejudiced their minds against his plans. After 
waiting a month in the hope of gaining their object, they met an Indian 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



33 



from the Iroquois colony at the head of Lake Ontario, who assured them 
that they could there find guides, and offered to conduct them thence. 

On their way they passed the mouth of the Niagara River, when they 
heard for the first time the distant thunder of the cataract. Arriving 




HIGH BRIDGE, LAKE BLUFF, LAKE ' COUNTY, ILLINOIS. 



among the Iroquois, they met with a friendly reception, and learned 
from a Shawanee prisoner that they could reach the Ohio in six weeks. 
Delighted with the unexpected good fortune, they made ready to resume 
their journey ; but just as they were about to start they heard of the 
arrival of two Frenchmen in a neighboring village. One of them proved 
to be Louis Joliet, afterwards famous as an explorer in the West. He 



34 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

had been sent by the Canadian Government to explore the copper mines 
on Lake Superior, but had failed, and was on his way back to Quebec. 
He gave the missionaries a map of the country he had explored in the 
lake region, together with an account of the condition of the Indians in 
that quarter. This induced the priests to determine on leaving the 
expedition and going to Lake Superior. LaSalle warned them that the 
Jesuits were probably occupying that field, and that they would meet 
with a cold reception. Nevertheless they persisted in their purpose, and 
after worship on the lake shore, parted from LaSalle. On arriving at 
Lake Superior, they found, as LaSalle had predicted, the Jesuit Fathers, 
Marquette and Dablon, occupying the field. 

These zealous disciples of Loyola informed them that they wanted 
no assistance from St. Sulpice, nor from those who made him their patron 
saint ; and thus repulsed, they returned to Montreal the following June 
without having made a single discovery or converted a single Indian. 

After parting with the priests, LaSalle went to the chief Iroquois 
village at Onondaga, where he obtained guides, and passing thence to a 
tributary of the Ohio south of Lake Erie, he descended the latter as far 
as the falls at Louisville. Thus was the Ohio discovered by LaSalle, the 
persevering and successful French explorer of the West, in 1669. 

The account of the latter part of his journey is found in an anony- 
mous paper, which purports to have been taken from the lips of LaSalle 
himself during a subsequent visit to Paris. In a letter written to Count 
Frontenac in 1667, shortly after the discovery, he himself says that he 
discovered the Ohio and descended it to the falls. This was regarded as 
an indisputable fact by the French authorities, who claimed the Ohio 
Valley upon another ground. When Washington was sent by the colony 
of Virginia in 1753, to demand of Gordeur de St. Pierre why .the French 
had built a fort on the Monongahela, the haughty commandant at Quebec 
replied : " We claim the country on the Ohio by virtue of the discoveries 
of LaSalle, and will not give it up to the English. Our orders are to 
make prisoners of every Englishman found trading in the Ohio Valley." 

ENGLISH EXPLORATIONS AND SETTLEMENTS. 

When the new year of 1750 broke in upon the Father of Waters 
and the Great Northwest, all was still wild save at the French posts 
already described. In 1749, when the English first began to think seri- 
ously about sending men into the West, the greater portion of the States 
of Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota were yet 
under the dominion of the red men. The English knew, however, pretty 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 35 

conclusively of the nature of the wealth of these wilds. As early as 
1710, Governor Spotswood, of Virginia, had commenced movements to 
secure the country west of the Alleghenies to the English crown. In 
Pennsylvania, Governor Keith and James Logan, secretary of the prov- 
ince, from 1719 to 1731, represented to the powers of England the neces- 
sity of securing the Western lands. Nothing was done, however, by that 
power save to take some diplomatic steps to secure the claims of Britain 
to this unexplored wilderness. 

England had from the outset claimed from the Atlantic to the Pacific, 
on the ground that the discovery of the seacoast and its possession was a 
discovery and possession of the country, and, as is well known, her grants 
to the colonies extended " from sea to sea." This was not all her claim. 
She had purchased from the Indian tribes large tracts of land. This lat- 
ter was also a strong argument. As early as 1684, Lord H oward, Gov- 
ernor of Virginia, held a treaty with the six nations. These were the 
great Northern Confederacy, and comprised at first the Mohawks, Onei- 
das, Onondagas, Cayugas, and Senecas. Afterward the Tuscaroras were 
taken into the confederacy, and it became known as the Six Nations. 
They came under the protection of the mother country, and again in 
1701, they repeated the agreement, and in September, 1726, a formal deed 
was drawn up and signed by the chiefs. The validity of this claim has 
often been disputed, but never successfully. In 1744, a purchase was 
made at Lancaster, Pennsylvania, of certain lands within the " Colony of 
Virginia," for which the Indians received <£200 in gold and a like sum in 
goods, with a promise that, as settlements increased, more should be paid. 
The Commissioners from Virginia were Colonel Thomas Lee and Colonel 
William Beverly. As settlements extended, the promise of more pay was 
called to mind, and Mr. Conrad Weiser was sent across the mountains with 
presents to appease the savages. Col. Lee, and some Virginians accompa- 
nied him with the intention of sounding the Indians upon their feelings 
regarding the English. They were not satisfied with their treatment, 
and plainly told the Commissioners why. The English did not desire the 
cultivation of the country, but the monopoly of the Indian trade. In 
1748, the Ohio Company was formed, and petitioned the king for a grant 
of land beyond the Alleghenies. This was granted, and the government 
of Virginia was ordered to grant to them a half million acres, two hun- 
dred thousand of which were to be located at once. Upon the 12th of 
June, 1749, 800,000 acres from the line of Canada north and west was 
made to the Loyal Company, and on the 29th of October, 1751, 100,000 
acres were given to the Greenbriar Company. All this time the French 
were not idle. They saw that, should the British gain a foothold in the 
West, especially upon the Ohio, they might not only prevent the French 



36 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

settling upon it, but in time would come to the lower posts and so gain 
possession of the whole country. Upon the 10th of May, 1774, Vaud- 
reuil, Governor of Canada and the French possessions, well knowing the 
consequences that must arise from allowing the English to build trading 
posts in the Northwest, seized some of their frontier posts, and to further 
secure the claim of the French to the West, he, in 1749, sent Louis Cel- 
eron with a party of soldiers to plant along the Ohio River, in the mounds 
and at the mouths of its principal tributaries, plates of lead, on which 
were inscribed the claims of France. These were heard of in 1752, and 
within the memory of residents now living along the " Oyo," as the 
beautiful river was called by the French. One of these plates was found 
with the inscription partly defaced. It bears date August 16, 1749, and 
a copy of the inscription with particular account of the discovery of the 
plate, was sent by DeWitt Clinton to the American Antiquarian Society, 
among whose journals it may now be found.* These measures did not, 
however, deter the English from going on with their explorations, and 
though neither party resorted to arms, yet the conflict was gathering, and 
it was only a question of time when the storm would burst upon the 
frontier settlements. In 1750, Christopher Gist was sent by the Ohio 
Company to examine its lands. He went to a village of the Twigtwees, 
on the Miami, about one hundred and fifty miles above its mouth. He 
afterward spoke of it as very populous. From there he went down 
the Ohio River nearly to the falls at the present City of Louisville, 
and in November he commenced a survey of the Company's lands. Dur- 
ing the Winter, General Andrew Lewis performed a similar work for the 
Greenbriar Company. Meanwhile the French were busy in preparing 
their forts for defense, and in opening roads, and also sent a small party 
of soldiers to keep the Ohio clear. This party, having heard of the Eng- 
lish post on the Miami River, early in 1652, assisted by the Ottawas and 
Chippewas, attacked it, and, after a severe battle, in which fourteen of 
the natives were killed and others wounded, captured the garrison. 
(They were probably garrisoned in a block house). The traders were 
carried away to Canada, and one account says several were burned. This 
fort or post was called by the English Pickawillany. A memorial of the 
king's ministers refers to it as " Pickawillanes, in the center of the terri- 
tory between the Ohio and the Wabash. The name is probably some 
variation of Pickaway or Picqua in 1773, written by Rev. David Jones 
Pickaweke." 

* The following is a translation of the inscription on the plate: "In the year 1749. reign of Louis XV., 
King of France, we, Celeron, commandant of a detachment by Monsieur the Marquis of Gallisoniere, com- 
mander-in-chief of New France, to establish tranquility in certain Indian villages of these cantons, have 
buried this plate at the confluence of the Toradakoin, this twenty- ninth of July, near the river Ohio, otherwise 
Beautiful River, as a monument of renewal of possession which we have taken of the said river, and all its 
tributaries; inasmuch as the preceding Kings of France have enjoyed it, and maintained it by their arms and 
treaties; especially by those of Ryswick, Utrecht, and Aix La Chapelle." 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY ' 37 

This was the first blood shed between the French and English, and 
occurred near the present City of Piqua, Ohio, or at least at a point about 
forty-seven miles north of Dayton. Each nation became now more inter- 
ested in the progress of events in the Northwest. The English deter- 
mined to purchase from the Indians a title to the lands they wished to 
occupy, and Messrs. Fry (afterward Commander-in-chief over Washing- 
ton at the commencement of the French War of 1775-1763), Lomax and 
Patton were sent in the Spring of 1752 to hold a conference with the 
natives at Logstown to learn what they objected to in the treaty of Lan- 
caster already noticed, and to settle all difficulties. On the 9th of June, 
these Commissioners met the red men at Logstown, a little village on the 
north bank of the Ohio, about seventeen miles below the site of Pitts- 
burgh. Here had been a trading point for many years, but it was aban- 
doned by the Indians in 1750. At first the Indians declined to recognize 
the treaty of Lancaster, but, the Commissioners taking aside Montour, 
the interpreter, who was a son of the famous Catharine Montour, and a 
chief among the six nations, induced him to use his influence in their 
favor. This he did, and upon the 13th of June they all united in signing 
a deed, confirming the Lancaster treaty in its full extent, consenting to a 
settlement of the southeast of the Ohio, and guaranteeing that it should 
not be disturbed by them. These were the means used to obtain the first 
treaty with the Indians in the Ohio Valley. 

Meanwhile the powers beyond the sea were trying to out-manceuvre 
each other, and were professing to be at peace. The English generally 
outwitted the Indians, and failed in many instances to fulfill their con- 
tracts. They thereby gained the ill-will of the red men, and further 
increased the feeling by failing to provide them with arms and ammuni- 
tion. Said an old chief, at Easton, in 1758: " The Indians on the Ohio 
left you because of your own fault. When we heard the French were 
coming, we asked you for help and arms, but we did not get them. The 
French came, they treated us kindly, and gained our affections. The 
Governor of Virginia settled on our lands for his own benefit, and, when 
we wanted help, forsook us." 

At the beginning of 1653, the English thought they had secured by 
title the lands in the West, but the French had quietly gathered cannon 
and military stores to be in readiness for the expected blow. The Eng- 
lish made other attempts to ratify these existing treaties, but not until 
the Summer could the Indians be gathered together to discuss the plans 
of the French. They had sent messages to the French, warning them 
away ; but they replied that they intended to complete the chain of forts 
already begun, and would not abandon the field. 

Soon after this, no satisfaction being obtained from the Ohio regard- 



38 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

ing the positions and purposes of the French, Governor Dinwiddie of 
Virginia determined to send to them another messenger and learn from 
them, if possible, their intentions. For this purpose he selected a young 
man, a surveyor, who, at the early age of nineteen, had received the rank 
of major, and who was thoroughly posted regarding frontier life. This 
personage was no other than the illustrious George Washington, who then 
held considerable interest in Western lands. He was at this time just 
twenty-two years of age. Taking Gist as his guide, the two, accompanied 
by four servitors, set out on their perilous march. They left Will's 
Creek on the 10th of November, 1753, and on the 22d reached the Monon- 
gahela, about ten miles above the fork. From there they went to 
Logstown, where Washington had a long conference with the chiefs of 
the Six Nations. From them he learned the condition of the French, and 
also heard of their determination not to come down the river till the fol- 
lowing Spring. The Indians were non-committal, as they were afraid to 
turn either way, and, as far as they could, desired to remain neutral. 
Washington, finding nothing could be done with them, went on to 
Venango, an old Indian town at the mouth of French Creek. Here the 
French had a fort, called Fort Machault. Through the rum and flattery 
of the French, he nearly lost all his Indian followers. Finding nothing 
of importance here, he pursued his way amid great privations, and on the 
11th of December reached the fort at the head of French Creek. Here 
he delivered Governor Dinwiddie's letter, received his answer, took his 
observations, and on the 16th set out upon his return journey with no one 
but Gist, his guide, and a few Indians who still remained true to him, 
notwithstanding the endeavors of the French to retain them. Their 
homeward journey was one of great peril and suffering from the cold, yet 
they reached home in safety on the 6th of January, 1754. 

From the letter of St. Pierre, commander of the French fort, sent by 
Washington to Governor Dinwiddie, it was learned that the French would 
not give up without a struggle. Active preparations were at once made 
in all the English colonies for the coming conflict, while the French 
finished the fort at Venango and strengthened their lines of fortifications, 
and gathered their forces to be in readiness. 

The Old Dominion was all alive. Virginia was the center of great 
activities ; volunteers were called for, and from all the neighboring 
colonies men rallied to the conflict, and everywhere along the Potomac 
men were enlisting under the Governor's proclamation — which promised 
two hundred thousand acres on the Ohio. Along this river they were 
gathering as far as Will's Creek, and far beyond this point, whither Trent 
had come for assistance for his little band of forty-one men, who were 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 39 

working away in hunger and want, to fortify that point at the fork of 
the Ohio, to which both parties were looking with deep interest. 

" The first birds of Spring filled the air with their song ; the swift 
river rolled by the Allegheny hillsides, swollen by the melting snows of 
Spring and the April showers. The leaves were appearing ; a few Indian 
scouts were seen, but no enemy seemed near at hand ; and all was so quiet., 
that Frazier, an old Indian scout and trader, who had been left by Trent 
in command, ventured to his home at the mouth of Turtle Creek, ten 
miles up the Monongahela. But, though all was so quiet in that wilder- 
ness, keen eyes had seen the low intrenchment rising at the fork, and 
swift feet had borne the news of it up the river ; and upon the morning 
of the 17th of April, Ensign Ward, who then had charge of it, saw 
upon the Allegheny a sight that made his heart sink — sixty batteaux and 
three hundred canoes filled with men, and laden deep with cannon and 
stores. * * * That evening he supped with his captor, Contrecoeur, 
and the next day he was bowed off by the Frenchman, and with his men 
and tools, marched up the Monongahela." 

The French and Indian war had begun. The treaty of Aix la 
Chapelle, in 1748, had left the boundaries between the French and 
English possessions unsettled, and the events already narrated show the 
French were determined to hold the country watered by the Mississippi 
and its tributaries ; while the English laid claims to the country by virtue 
of the discoveries of the Cabots, and claimed all the country from New- 
foundland to Florida, extending from the Atlantic to the Pacific. The 
first decisive blow had now been struck, and the first attempt of the 
English, through the Ohio Company, to occupy these lands, had resulted 
disastrously to them. The French and Indians immediately completed 
the fortifications begun at the Fork, which they had so easily captured* 
and when completed gave to the fort the name of DuQuesne. Washing- 
ton was at Will's Creek when the news of the capture of the fort arrived. 
He at once departed to recapture it. On his way he entrenched him- 
self at a place called the " Meadows," where he erected a fort called 
by him Fort Necessity. From there he surprised and captured a force of 
French and Indians marching against him, but was soon after attacked 
in his fort by a much superior force, and was obliged to yield on the 
morning of July 4th. He was allowed to return to Virginia. 

The English Government immediately planned four campaigns ; one 
against Fort DuQuesne ; one against Nova Scotia ; one against Fort 
Niagara, and one against Crown Point. These occurred during 1755--6, 
and were not successful in driving the French from their possessions- 
The expedition against Fort DuQuesne was led by the famous General 
Braddock, who, refusing to listen to the advice of Washington and those 



40 'J-'UE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

acquainted with Indian warfare, suffered such an inglorious defeat. This 
occurred on the morning of July 9th, and is generally known as the battle 
of Monongahela, or " Braddock's Defeat." The war continued with 
various vicissitudes through the years 1756-7 ; when, at the commence- 
ment of 1758, in accordance with the plans of William Pitt, then Secre- 
tary of State, afterwards Lord Chatham, active preparations were made to 
carry on the war. Three expeditions were planned for this year : one, 
under General Amherst, against Louisburg ; another, under Abercrombie, 
against Fort Ticonderoga ; and a third, under General Forbes, against 
Fort DuQuesne. On the 26th of July, Louisburg surrendered after a 
desperate resistance of more than forty days, and the eastern part of the 
Canadian possessions fell into the hands of the British. Abercrombie 
captured Fort Frontenac, and when the expedition against Fort DuQuesne, 
of which Washington had the active command, arrived there, it was 
found in flames and deserted. The English at once took possession, 
rebuilt the fort, and in honor of their illustrious statesman, changed the 
name to Fort Pitt. 

The great object of the campaign of 1759, was the reduction of 
Canada. General Wolfe was to lay siege to Quebec ; Amherst was to 
reduce Ticonderoga and Crown Point, and General Prideaux was to 
capture Niagara. This latter place was taken in July, but the gallant 
Prideaux lost his life in the attempt. Amherst captured Ticonderoga 
and Crown Point without a blow ; and Wolfe, after making the memor- 
able ascent to the Plains of Abraham, on September 13th, defeated 
Montcalm, and on the 18th, the city capitulated. In this engagement 
Montcolm and Wolfe both lost their lives. De Levi, Montcalm's successor, 
marched to Sillery, three miles above the city, with the purpose of 
defeating the English, and there, on the 28th of the following April, was 
fought one of the bloodiest battles of the French and Indian War. It 
resulted in the defeat of the French, and the fall of the City of Montreal. 
The Governor signed a capitulation by which the whole of Canada was 
surrendered to the English. This practically concluded the war, but it 
was not until 1763 that the treaties of peace between France and England 
were signed. This was done on the 10th of February of that year, and 
under its provisions all the country east of the Mississippi and north of 
the Iberville River, in Louisiana, were ceded to England. At the same 
time Spain ceded Florida to Great Britain. 

On the 13th of September, 1760, Major Robert Rogers was sent 
from Montreal to take charge of Detroit, the only remaining French post 
in the territory. He arrived there on the 19th of November, and sum- 
moned the place to surrender. At first the commander of the post, 
Beletre. refused, but on the 29th, hearing of the continued defeat of the 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 41 

French arms, surrendered. Rogers remained there until December 23d 
under the personal protection of the celebrated chief, Pontiac, to whom, 
no doubt, he owed his safety. Pontiac had come here to inquire the 
purposes of the English in taking possession of the country. He was 
assured that they came simply to trade with the natives, and did not 
desire their country. This answer conciliated the savages, and did much 
to insure the safety of Rogers and his party during their stay, and while 
on their journey home. 

Rogers set out for Fort Pitt on December 23, and was just one 
month on the way. His route was from Detroit to Maumee, thence 
across the present State of Ohio directly to the fort. This was the com- 
mon trail of the Indians in their journeys from Sandusky to the fork of 
the Ohio. It went from Fort Sandusky, where Sandusky City now is, 
crossed the Huron river, then called Bald Eagle Creek, to " Mohickon 
John's Town " on Mohickon Creek, the northern branch of White 
Woman's River, and thence crossed to Beaver's Town, a Delaware town 
on what is now Sandy Creek. At Beaver's Town were probably one 
hundred and fifty warriors, and not less than three thousand acres of 
cleared land. From there the track went up Sandy Creek to and across 
Big Beaver, and up the Ohio to Logstown, thence on to the fork. 

The Northwest Territory was now entirely under the English rule. 
New settlements began to be rapidly made, and the promise of a large 
trade was speedily manifested. Had the British carried out their promises 
with the natives none of those savage butcheries would have been perpe- 
trated, and the country would have been spared their recital. 

The renowned chief, Pontiac, was one of the leading spirits in these 
atrocities. We will now pause in our narrative, and notice the leading 
events in his life. The earliest authentic information regarding this 
noted Indian chief is learned from an account of an Indian trader named 
Alexander Henry, who, in the Spring of 1761, penetrated his domains as 
far as Missillimacnac. Pontiac was then a great friend of the French, 
but a bitter foe of the English, whom he considered as encroaching on his 
hunting grounds. Henry was obliged to disguise himself as a Canadian 
to insure safety, but was discovered by Pontiac, who bitterly reproached 
him and the English for their attempted subjugation of the West. He 
declared that no treaty had been made with them ; no presents sent 
them, and that he would resent any possession of the West by that nation. 
He was at the time about fifty years of age, tall and dignified, and was 
civil and military ruler of the Ottawas, Ojibwas and Pottawatamies. 

The Indians, from Lake Michigan to the borders of North Carolina, 
were united in this feeling, and at the time of the treaty of Paris, ratified 
February 10, 1763, a general conspiracy was formed to fall suddenly 



42 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 




PONTIAC, THE OTTAWA CHIEFTAIN. 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 43 

upon the frontier British posts, and with one blow strike every man dead. 
Pontiac was the marked leader in all this, and was the commander 
of the Chippewas, Ottawas, Wyandots, Miamis, Shawanese, Delawares 
and Mingoes, who had, for the time, laid aside their local quarrels to unite 
in this enterprise. 

The blow came, as near as can now be ascertained, on May 7, 1768. 
Nine British posts fell, and the Indians drank, " scooped up in the hollow 
of joined hands," the blood of many a Briton. 

Pontiac's immediate field of action was the garrison at Detroit. 
Here, however, the plans were frustrated by an Indian woman disclosing 
the plot the evening previous to his arrival. Everything was carried out, 
however, according to Pontiac's plans until the moment of action, when 
Major Gladwyn, the commander of the post, stepping to one of the Indian 
chiefs, suddenly drew aside his blanket and disclosed the concealed 
musket. Pontiac, though a brave man, turned pale and trembled. He 
saw his plan was known, and that the garrison were prepared. He 
endeavored to exculpate himself from any such intentions ; but the guilt 
was evident, and he and his followers were dismissed with a severe 
reprimand, and warned never to again enter the walls of the post. 

Pontiac at once laid siege to the fort, and until the treaty of peace 
between the British and the Western Indians, concluded in August, 1764, 
continued to harass and besiege the fortress. He organized a regular 
commissariat department, issued bills of credit written out on bark, 
which, to his credit, it may be stated, were punctually redeemed. At 
the conclusion of the treaty, in which it seems he took no part, he went 
further south, living many years among the Illinois. 

He had given up all hope of saving his country and race. After a 
time he endeavored to unite the Illinois tribe and those about St. Louis 
in a war with the whites. His efforts were fruitless, and only ended in a 
quarrel between himself and some Kaskaskia Indians, one of whom soon 
afterwards killed him. His death was, however, avenged by the northern 
Indians, who nearly exterminated the Illinois in the wars which followed. 

Had it not been for the treachery of a few of his followers, his plan 
for the extermination of the whites, a masterly one, would undoubtedly 
have been carried out. 

It was in the Spring of the year following Rogers' visit that Alex- 
ander Henry went to Missillimacnac, and everywhere found the strongest 
feelings against the English, who had not carried out their promises, and 
were doing nothing to conciliate the natives. Here he met the chief, 
Pontiac, who, after conveying to him in a speech the idea that their 
French father would awake soon and utterly destroy his enemies, said : 
" Englishman, although you have conquered the French, you have not 



44 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

yet conquered us ! We are not your slaves ! These lakes, these woods, 
these mountains, were left us by our ancestors. They are our inheritance, 
and we will part with them to none. Your nation supposes that we, like 
the white people, can not live without bread and pork and beef. But you 
ought to know that He, the Great Spirit and Master of Life, has provided 
food for us upon these broad lakes and in these mountains." 

He then spoke of the fact that no treaty had been made with them, 
no presents sent them, and that he and his people were yet for war. 
Such were the feelings of the Northwestern Indians immediately after 
the English took possession of their country. These feelings were no 
doubt encouraged by the Canadians and French, who hoped that yet the 
French arms might prevail. The treaty of Paris, however, gave to the 
English the right to this vast domain, and active preparations were going 
on to occupy it and enjoy its trade and emoluments. 

In 1762, France, by a secret treaty, ceded Louisiana to Spain, to pre- 
vent it falling into the hands of the English, who were becoming masters 
of the entire West. The next year the treaty of Paris, signed at Fon- 
tainbleau, gave to the English the domain of the country in question. 
Twenty years after, by the treaty of peace between the United States 
and England, that part of Canada lying south and west of the Great 
Lakes, comprehending a large territory which is the subject of these 
sketches, was acknowledged to be a portion of the United States ; and 
twenty years still later, in 1803, Louisiana was ceded by Spain back to 
France, and by France sold to the United States. 

In the half century, from the 'building of the Fort of Crevecceur by 
LaSalle, in 1680, up to the erection of Fort Chartres, many French set- 
tlements had been made in that quarter. These have already been 
noticed, being those at St. Vincent (Vincennes), Kohokia or Cahokia, 
Kaskaskia and Prairie du Rocher, on the American Bottom, a large tract 
of rich alluvial soil in Illinois, on the Mississippi, opposite the site of St. 
Louis. 

By the treaty of Paris, the regions east of the Mississippi, including 
all these and other towns of the Northwest, were given over to England; 
but they do not appear to have been taken possession of until 1765, when 
Captain Stirling, in the name of the Majesty of England, established him- 
self at Fort Chartres bearing with him the proclamation of General Gage, 
dated December 30, 1764, which promised religious freedom to all Cath- 
olics who worshiped here, and a right to leave the country with their 
effects if they wished, or to remain with the privileges of Englishmen. 
It was shortly after the occupancy of the West by the British that the 
war with Pontiac opened. It is already noticed in the sketch of that 
chieftain- By it many a Briton lost his life, and many a frontier settle- 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 45 

ment in its infancy ceased to exist. This was not ended until the year 
1764, when, failing to capture Detroit, Niagara and Fort Pitt, his confed- 
eracy became disheartened, and, receiving no aid from the French, Pon- 
tiac abandoned the enterprise and departed to the Illinois, among whom 
he afterward lost his life. 

As soon as these difficulties were definitely settled, settlers began 
rapidly to survey the country and prepare for occupation. During the 
year 1770, a number of persons from Virginia and other British provinces 
explored and marked out nearly all the valuable lands on the Mononga- 
hela and along the banks of the Ohio as far as the Little Kanawha. This 
was followed by another exploring expedition, in which George Washing- 
ton was a party. The latter, accompanied by Dr. Craik, Capt. Crawford 
and others, on the 20th of October, 1770, descended the Ohio from Pitts- 
burgh to the mouth of the Kanawha ; ascended that stream about fourteen 
miles, marked out several large tracts of land, shot several buffalo, which 
were then abundant in the Ohio Valley, and returned to the fort. 

Pittsburgh was at this time a trading post, about which was clus- 
tered a village of some twenty houses, inhabited by Indian traders. This 
same year, Capt. Pittman visited Kaskaskia and its neighboring villages. 
He found there about sixty-five resident families, and at Cahokia only 
forty-five dwellings. At Fort Chartres was another small settlement, and 
at Detroit the garrison were quite prosperous and strong. For a year 
or two settlers continued to locate near some of these posts, generally 
Fort Pitt or Detroit, owing to the fears of the Indians, who still main- 
tained some feelings of hatred to the English. The trade from the posts 
Was quite good, and from those in Illinois large quantities of pork and 
flour found their way to the New Orleans market. At this time the 
policy of the British Government was strongly opposed to the extension 
of the colonies west. In 1763, the King of England forbade, by royal 
proclamation, his colonial subjects from making a settlement beyond the 
sources of the rivers which fall into the Atlantic Ocean. At the instance 
of the Board of Trade, measures were taken to prevent the settlement 
without the limits prescribed, and to retain the commerce within easy 
reach of Great Britain. 

The commander-in-chief of the king's forces wrote in 1769 : " In the 
course of a few years necessity will compel the colonists, should they 
extend their settlements west, to provide manufactures of some kind for 
themselves, and when all connection upheld by commerce with the mother 
country ceases, an independency in their government will soon follow." 

In accordance with this policy, Gov. Gage issued a proclamation 
in 1772, commanding the inhabitants of Vincennes to abandon their set- 
tlements and join some of the Eastern English colonies. To this they 



46 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

strenuously objected, giving good reasons therefor, and were allowed to 
remain. The strong opposition to this policy of Great Britain led to its 
change, and to such a course as to gain the attachment of the French 
population. In December, 1773, influential citizens of Quebec petitioned 
the king for an extension of the boundary lines of that province, which 
was granted, and Parliament passed an act on June 2, 1774, extend- 
ing the boundary so as to include the territory lying within the present 
States of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Michigan. 

In consequence of the liberal policy pursued by the British Govern- 
ment toward the French settlers in the West, they were disposed to favor 
that nation in the war which soon followed with the colonies ; but the 
early alliance between France and America soon brought them to the side 
of the war for independence. 

In 1774, Gov. Dunmore, of Virginia, began to encourage emigration 
to the Western lands. He appointed magistrates at Fort Pitt under the 
pretense that the fort was under the government of that commonwealth. 
One of these justices, John Connelly, who possessed a tract of land in the 
Ohio Valley, gathered a force of men and garrisoned the fort, calling it 
Fort Dunmore. This and other parties were formed to select sites for 
settlements, and often came in conflict with the Indians, who yet claimed 
portions of the valley, and several battles followed. These ended in the 
famous battle of Kanawha in July, where the Indians were defeated and 
driven across the Ohio. 

During the years 1775 and 1776, by the operations of land companies 
and the perseverance of individuals, several settlements were firmly estab- 
lished between the Alleghanies and the Ohio River, and western land 
speculators were busy in Illinois and on the Wabash. At a council held 
in Kaskaskia on July 5, 1773, an association of English traders, calling 
themselves the " Illinois Land Company," obtained from ten chiefs of the 
Kaskaskia, Cahokia and Peoria tribes two large tracts of land lying on 
the east side of the Mississippi River south of the Illinois. In 1775, a mer- 
chant from the Illinois Country, named Viviat, came to Post Vincennes 
as the agent of the association called the " Wabash Land Company." On 
the 8th of October he obtained from eleven Piankeshaw chiefs, a deed for 
37,497,600 acres of land. This deed was signed by the grantors, attested 
by a number of the inhabitants of Vincennes, and afterward recorded in 
the office of a notary public at Kaskaskia. This and other land com- 
panies had extensive schemes for the colonization of the West ; but all 
were frustrated by the breaking out of the Revolution. On the 20th of 
April, 1780, the two companies named consolidated under the name of the 
"United Illinois and Wabash Land Company." They afterward made 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 47 

strenuous efforts to have these grants sanctioned by Congress, but all 
signally failed. 

When the War of the Revolution commenced, Kentucky was an unor- 
ganized country, though there were several settlements within her borders. 

In Hutchins' Topography of Virginia, it is stated that at that time 
" Kaskaskia contained 80 houses, and nearly 1,000 white and black in- 
habitants — the whites being a little the more numerous. Cahokia con- 
tains 50 houses and 300 white inhabitants, and 80 negroes. There were 
east of the Mississippi River, about the year 1771 " — when these observa- 
tions were made — " 300 white men capable of bearing arms, and 230 
negroes." 

From 1775 until the expedition of Clark, nothing is recorded and 
nothing known of these settlements, save what is contained in a report 
made by a committee to Congress in June, 1778. From it the following 
extract is made : 

" Near the mouth of the River Kaskaskia, there is a village which 
appears to have contained nearly eighty families from the beginning of 
the late revolution. There are twelve families in a small village at la 
Prairie du Rochers, and near fifty families at the Kahokia Village. There 
are also four or five families at Fort Chartres and St. Philips, which is five 
miles further up the river." 

St. Louis had been settled in February, 1764, and at this time con- 
tained, including its neighboring towns, over six hundred whites and one 
hundred and fifty negroes. It must be remembered that all the country 
west of the Mississippi was now under French rule, and remained so until 
ceded again to Spain, its original owner, who afterwards sold it and the 
country including New Orleans to the United States. At Detroit there 
were, according to Capt. Carver, who was in the Northwest from 1766 to 
1768, more than one hundred houses, and the river was settled for more 
than twenty miles, although poorly cultivated — the people being engaged 
in the Indian trade. This old town has a history, which we will here 
relate. 

It is the oldest town in the Northwest, having been founded by 
Antoine de Lamotte Cadillac, in 1701. It was laid out in the form of an 
oblong square, of two acres in length, and an acre and a half in width. 
As described by A. D. Frazer, who first visited it and became a permanent 
resident of the place, in 1778, it comprised within its limits that space 
between Mr. Palmer's store (Conant Block) and Capt. Perkins' house 
(near the Arsenal building), and extended back as far as the public barn, 
and was bordered in front by the Detroit River. It was surrounded by 
oak and cedar pickets, about fifteen feet long, set in the ground, and had 
four gates — east, west, north and south. Over the first three of these 



48 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

gates were block houses provided with four guns apiece, each a six- 
pounder. Two six-gun batteries were planted fronting the river and in a 
parallel direction with the block houses. There were four streets running 
east and west, the main street being twenty feet wide and the rest fifteen 
feet, while the four streets crossing these at right angles were from ten 
to fifteen feet in width. 

At the date spoken of by Mr. Frazer, there was no fort within the 
enclosure, but a citadel on the ground corresponding to the present 
northwest corner of Jefferson Avenue and Wayne Street. The citadel was 
inclosed by pickets, and within it were erected barracks of wood, two 
stories high, sufficient to contain ten officers, and also barracks sufficient 
to contain four hundred men, and a provision store built of brick. The 
citadel also contained a hospital and guard-house. The old town of 
Detroit, in 1778, contained about sixty houses, most of them one story, 
with a few a story and a half in height. They were all of logs, some 
hewn and some round. There was one building of splendid appearance, 
called the " King's Palace," two stories high, which stood near the east 
gate. It was built for Governor Hamilton, the first governor commissioned 
by the British. There were two guard-houses, one near the west gate and 
the other near the Government House. Each of the guards consisted of 
twenty -four men and a subaltern, who mounted regularly every morning 
between nine and ten o'clock, Each furnished four sentinels, who were 
relieved every two hours. There was also an officer of the day, who per- 
formed strict duty. Each of the gates was shut regularly at sunset, 
even wicket gates were shut at nine o'clock, and all the keys were 
delivered into the hands of the commanding officer. They were opened 
in the morning at sunrise. No Indian or squaw was permitted to enter 
town with any weapon, such as a tomahawk or a knife. It was a stand- 
ing order that the Indians should deliver their arms and instruments of 
every kind before they were permitted to pass the sentinel, and they were 
restored to them on their return. No more than twenty-five Indians wer^e 
allowed to enter the town at any one time, and they were admitted only 
at the east and west gates. At sundown the drums beat, and all the 
Indians were required to leave town instantly. There was a council house 
near the water side for the purpose of holding council with the Indians. 
The population of the town was about sixty families, in all about two 
hundred males and one hundred females. This town was destroyed by 
fire, all except one dwelling, in 1805. After which the present " new " 
town was laid out. 

On the breaking out of the Revolution, the British held every post of 
importance in the West. Kentucky was formed as a component part of 
Virginia, and the sturdy pioneers of the West, alive to their interests, 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 49 

and recognizing the great benefits of obtaining the control of the trade in 
this part of the New World, held steadily to their purposes, and those 
within the commonwealth of Kentucky proceeded to exercise their 
civil privileges, by electing John Todd and Richard Gallaway, 
burgesses to represent them in the Assembly of the parent state. 
Early in September of that year (1777) the first court was held 
in Harrodsburg, and Col. Bowman, afterwards major, who had arrived 
in August, was made the commander of a militia organization which 
had been commenced the March previous. Thus the tree of loyalty 
was growing. The chief spirit in this far-out colony, who had represented 
her the year previous east of the mountains, was now meditating a move 
unequaled in its boldness. He had been watching the movements of the 
British throughout the Northwest, and understood their whole plan. He 
saw it was through their possession of the posts at Detroit, Vincennes, 
Kaskaskia, and other places, which would give them constant and easy 
access to the various Indian tribes in the Northwest, that the British 
intended to penetrate the country from the north and south, and annihi- 
late the frontier fortresses. This moving, energetic man was Colonel, 
afterwards General, George Rogers Clark. He knew the Indians were not 
unanimously in accord with the English, and he was convinced that, could 
the British be defeated and expelled from the Northwest, the natives 
might be easily awed into neutrality; and by spies sent for the purpose, 
he satisfied himself that the enterprise against the Illinois settlements 
might easily succeed. Having convinced himself of the certainty of the 
project, he repaired to the Capital of Virginia, which place he reached on 
November 5th. While he was on his way, fortunately, on October 17th, 
Burgoyne had been defeated, and the spirits of the colonists greatly 
encouraged thereby. Patrick Henry was Governor of Virginia, and at 
once entered heartily into Clark's plans. The same plan had before been 
agitated in the Colonial Assemblies, but there was no one until Clark- 
came who was sufficiently acquainted with the condition of affairs at the 
scene of action to be able to guide them. 

Clark, having satisfied the Virginia leaders of the feasibility of his 
plan, received, on the 2d of January, two sets of instructions — one secret, 
the other open — the latter authorized him to proceed to enlist seven 
companies to go to Kentucky, subject to his orders, and to serve three 
months from their arrival in the West. The secret order authorized him 
to arm these troops, to procure his powder and lead of General Hand 
at Pittsburgh, and to proceed at once to subjugate the country. 

With these instructions Clark repaired to Pittsburgh, choosing rather 
to raise his men west of the mountains, as he well knew all were needed 
in the colonies in the conflict there. He sent Col. W. B. Smith to Hoi- 



50 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

ston for the same purpose, but neither succeeded in raising the required 
number of men. The settlers in these parts were afraid to leave their 
own firesides exposed to a vigilant foe, and but few could be induced to 
join the proposed expedition. With three companies and several private 
volunteers, Clark at length commenced his descent of the Ohio, which he 
navigated as far as the Falls, where he took possession of and fortified 
Corn Island, a small island between the present Cities of Louisville, 
Kentucky, and New Albany, Indiana. Remains of this fortification may 
yet be found. At this place he appointed Col. Bowman to meet him 
with such recruits as had reached Kentucky by the southern route, and 
as many as could be spared from the station. Here he announced to 
the men their real destination. Having completed his arrangements, 
and chosen his party, he left a small garrison upon the island, and on the 
24th of June, during a total eclipse of the sun, which to them augured 
no good, and which fixes beyond dispute the date of starting, he with 
his chosen band, fell down the river. His plan was to go by water as 
far as Fort Massac or Massacre, and thence march direct to Kaskaskia. 
Here he intended to surprise the garrison, and after its capture go to 
Cahokia, then to Vincennes, and lastly to Detroit. Should he fail, he 
intended to inarch directly to the Mississippi River and cross it into the 
Spanish country. Before his start he received two good items of infor- 
mation : one that the alliance had been formed between France and the 
United States ; and the other that the Indians throughout the Illinois 
country and the inhabitants, at the various frontier posts, had been led to 
believe by the British that the " Long Knives" or Virginians, were the 
most fierce, bloodthirsty and cruel savages that ever scalped a foe. With 
this impression on their minds, Clark saw that proper management would 
cause them to submit at once from fear, if surprised, and then from grati- 
tude would become friendly if treated with unexpected leniency. 

The march to Kaskaskia was accomplished through a hot July sun, 
and the town reached on the evening of July 4. He captured the fort 
near the village, and soon after the village itself by surprise, and without 
the loss of a single man or by killing any of the enemy. After sufficiently 
working upon the fears of the natives, Clark told them they were at per- 
fect liberty to worship as they pleased, and to take whichever side of the 
great conflict they would, also he would protect them from any barbarity 
from British or Indian foe. This had the desired effect, and the inhab- 
itants, so unexpectedly and so gratefully surprised by the unlooked 
for turn of affairs, at once swore allegiance to the American arms, and 
when Clark desired to go to Cahokia on the 6th of July, they accom- 
panied him, and through their influence the inhabitants of the place 
surrendered, and gladly placed themselves under his protection. Thus 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 51 

the two important posts in Illinois passed from the hands of the English 
into the possession of Virginia. 

In the person of the priest at Kaskaskia, M. Gibault, Clark found a 
powerful ally and generous friend. Clark saw that, to retain possession 
of tke Northwest and treat successfully with the Indians within its boun- 
daries, he must establish a government for the colonies he had taken. 
St. Vincent, the next important post to Detroit, remained yet to be taken 
before the Mississippi Valley was conquered. M. Gibault told him that 
he would alone, by persuasion, lead Vincennes to throw off its connection 
with England. Clark gladly accepted his offer, and on the 14th of July, 
in company with a fellow-townsman, M. Gibault started on his mission of 
peace, and on the 1st of August returned with the cheerful intelligence 
that the post on the "O^ache'' had taken the oath of allegiance to 
the Old Dominion. During this interval, Clark established his courts, 
placed garrisons at Kaskaskia and Cahokia, successfully re-enlisted his 
men, sent word to have a fort, which proved the germ of Louisville, 
erected at the Falls of the Ohio, and dispatched Mr. Rocheblave, who 
had been commander at Kaskaskia, as a prisoner of war to Richmond. 
In October the County of Illinois was established by the Legislature 
of Virginia, John Todd appointed Lieutenant Colonel and Civil Governor, 
and in November General Clark and his men received the thanks of 
the Old Dominion through their Legislature. 

In a speech a few days afterward, Clark made known fully to the 
natives his plans, and at its close all came forward and swore alle- 
giance to the Long Knives. While he was doing this Governor Hamilton, 
having made his various arrangements, had left Detroit and moved down 
the Wabash to Vincennes intending to operate from that point in reducing 
the Illinois posts, and then proceed on down to Kentucky and drive the 
rebels from the West. Gen. Clark had, on the return of M. Gibault, 
dispatched Captain Helm, of Fauquier County, Virginia, with an attend- 
ant named Henry, across the Illinois prairies to command the fort. 
Hamilton knew nothing of the capitulation of the post, and was greatly 
surprised on his arrival to be confronted by Capt. Helm, who, standing at 
the entrance of the fort by a loaded cannon ready to fire upon his assail- 
ants, demanded upon what terms Hamilton demanded possession of the 
fort. Being granted the rights of a prisoner of war, he surrendered to 
the British General, who could scarcely believe his eyes when he saw the 
force in the garrison. 

Hamilton, not realizing the character of the men with whom he was 
contending, gave up his intended campaign for the Winter, sent his four 
hundred Indian warriors to prevent troops from coming down the Ohio, 



52 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

and to annoy the Americans in all ways, and sat quietly down to pass the 
Winter. Information of all these proceedings having reached Clark, he 
saw that immediate and decisive action was necessary, and that unless 
he captured Hamilton, Hamilton would capture him. Clark received the 
news on the 29th of January, 1779, and on February 4th, having suffi- 
ciently garrisoned Kaskaskia and Cahokia, he sent down the Mississippi 
a " battoe," as Major Bowman writes it, in order to ascend the Ohio and 
Wabash, and operate with the land forces gathering for the fray. 

On the next day, Clark, with his little force of one hundred and 
twenty men, set out for the post, and after incredible hard marching 
through much mud, the ground being thawed by the incessant spring 
rains, on the 22d reached the fort, and being joined by his " battoe," at 
once commenced the attack on the post. The aim of the American back- 
woodsman was unerring, and on the 24th the garrison surrendered to the 
intrepid boldness of Clark. The French were treated with great kind- 
ness, and gladly renewed their allegiance to Virginia. Hamilton was 
sent as a prisoner to Virginia, where he was kept in close confinement. 
During his command of the British frontier posts, he had offered prizes 
to the Indians for all the scalps of Americans they would bring to him, 
and had earned in consequence thereof the title " Hair-buyer General," 
by which he was ever afterward known. 

Detroit was now without doubt within easy reach of the enterprising 
Virginian, could he but raise the necessary force. Governor Henry being 
apprised of this, promised him the needed reinforcement, and Clark con- 
cluded to wait until he could capture and sufficiently garrison the posts. 
Had Clark failed in this bold undertaking, and Hamilton succeeded in 
uniting the western Indians for the next Spring's campaign, the West 
would indeed have been swept from the Mississippi to the Allegheny 
Mountains, and the great blow struck, which had been contemplated from 
the commencement, by the British. 

" But for this small army of dripping, but fearless Virginians, the 
union of all the tribes from Georgia to Maine against the colonies might 
have been effected, and the whole current of our history changed." 

At this time some fears were entertained by the Colonial Govern- 
ments that the Indians in the North and Northwest were inclining to the 
British, and under the instructions of Washington, now Commander-in- 
Chief of the Colonial army, and so bravely fighting for American inde- 
pendence, armed forces were sent against the Six Nations, and upon the 
Ohio frontier, Col. Bowman, acting under the same general's orders, 
marched against Indians within the present limits of that State. These 
expeditions were in the main successful, and the Indians were compelled 
to sue for peace. 



THE NORTHWEST TEIiKlTOKY. 53 

During this same year (1779) the famous " Land Laws" of Virginia 
were passed. The passage of these laws was of more consequence to the 
pioneers of Kentucky and the Northwest than the gaining of a few Indian 
conflicts. These laws confirmed in main all grants made, and guaranteed 
to all actual settlers their rights and privileges. After providing for the 
settlers, the laws provided for selling the balance of the public lands at 
forty cents per acre. To carry the Land Laws into effect, the Legislature 
sent four Virginians westward to attend to the various claims, over many 
of which great confusion prevailed concerning their validity. These 
gentlemen opened their court on October 13, 1779, at St. Asaphs, and 
continued until April 26, 1780, when they adjourned, having decided 
three thousand claims. They were succeeded by the surveyor, who 
came in the person of Mr. George May, and assumed his duties on the 
10th day of the month whose name he bore. With the opening of the 
next year (1780) the troubles concerning the navigation of the Missis- 
sippi commenced. The Spanish Government exacted such measures in 
relation to its trade as to cause the overtures made to the United States 
to be rejected. The American Government considered they had a right 
to navigate its channel. To enforce their claims, a fort was erected below 
the mouth of the Ohio on the Kentucky side of the river. The settle- 
ments in Kentucky were being rapidly filled by emigrants. It was dur- 
ing this year that the first seminary of learning was established in the 
West in this young and enterprising Commonwealth. 

The settlers here did not look upon the building of this fort in a 
friendly manner, as it aroused the hostility of the Indians. Spain had 
been friendly to the Colonies during their struggle for independence, 
and though for a while this friendship appeared in danger from the 
refusal of the free navigation of the river, yet it was finally settled to the 
satisfaction of both nations. 

The Winter of 1779-80 was one of the most unusually severe ones 
ever experienced in the West. The Indians always referred to it as the 
"Great Cold." Numbers of wild animals perished, and not a few 
pioneers lost their lives. The following Summer a party of Canadians 
and Indians attacked St. Louis, and attempted to take possession of it 
in consequence of the friendly disposition of Spain to the revolting 
colonies. They met with such a determined resistance on the part of the 
inhabitants, even the women taking part in the battle, that they were 
compelled to abandon the contest. They also made an attack on the 
settlements in Kentucky, but, becoming alarmed in some unaccountable 
manner, they fled the country in great haste. 

About this time arose the question in the Colonial Congress con- 
cerning the western lands claimed by Virginia, New York, Massachusetts 



54 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

and Connecticut. The agitation concerning this subject finally led New 
York, on the 19th of February, 1780, to pass a law giving to the dele- 
gates of that State in Congress the power to cede her western lands for 
the benefit of the United States. This law was laid before Congress 
during the next month, but no steps were taken concerning it until Sep- 
tember 6th, when a resolution passed that body calling upon the States 
claiming western lands to release their claims in favor of the whole body. 
This basis formed the union, and was the first after all of those legislative 
measures which resulted in the creation of the States of Ohio, Indiana, 
Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota. In December of the same 
year, the plan of conquering Detroit again arose. The conquest might 
have easily been effected by Clark had the necessary aid been furnished 
him. Nothing decisive was done, yet the heads of the Government knew 
that the safety of the Northwest from British invasion lay in the capture 
and retention of that important post, the only unconquered one in the 
territory. 

Before the close of the year, Kentucky was divided into the Coun- 
ties of Lincoln, Fayette and Jefferson, and the act establishing the Town 
of Louisville was passed. This same year is also noted in the annals of 
American history as the ye&v in which occurred Arnold's treason to the 
United States. 

Virginia, in accordance with the resolution of Congress, on the 2d 
day of January, 1781, agreed to yield her western lands to the United 
States upon certain conditions, which Congress would not accede to, and 
the Act of Cession, on the part of the Old Dominion, failed, nor was 
anything farther done until 1783. During all that time the Colonies 
were busily engaged in the struggle with the mother country, and in 
consequence thereof but little heed was given to the western settlements. 
Upon the 16th of April, 1781, the first birth north of the Ohio River of 
American parentage occurred, being that of Mary Hecke welder, daughter 
of the widely known Moravian missionary, whose band of Christian 
Indians suffered in after years a horrible massacre by the hands of the 
frontier settlers, who had been exasperated by the murder of several of 
their neighbors, and in their rage committed, without regard to humanity, 
a deed which forever afterwards cast a shade of shame upon their lives. 
For this and kindred outrages on the part of the whites, the Indians 
committed many deeds of cruelty which darken the years of 1771 and 
1772 in the history of the Northwest. 

During the year 1782 a number of battles among the Indians and 
frontiersmen occurred, and between the Moravian Indians and the Wyan- 
dots. In these, horrible acts of cruelty were practised on the captives, 
many of such dark deeds transpiring under the leadership of the notorious 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



55 



frontier outlaw, Simon Girty, whose name, as well as those of his brothers, 
was a terror to women and children. These occurred chiefly in the Ohio 
valleys. Cotemporary with them were several engagements in Kentucky, 
in which the famous Daniel Boone engaged, and who, often by his skill 
and knowledge of Indian warfare, saved the outposts from cruel destruc- 




INDIANS ATTACKING FRONTIERSMEN. 



tion. By the close of the year victory had perched upon the American 
banner, and on the 30th of November, provisional articles of peace had 
been arranged between the Commissioners of England and her uncon- 
querable colonies. Cornwallis had been defeated on the 19th of October 
preceding, and the liberty of America was assured. On the 19th of 
April following, the anniversary of the battle of Lexington, peace was 



56 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

proclaimed to the army of the United States, and on the 3d of the next 
September, the definite treaty which ended our revolutionary struggle 
was concluded. By the terms of that treaty, the boundaries of the West 
were as follows : On the north the line was to extend along the center of 
the Great Lakes ; from the western point of Lake Superior to Long Lake ; 
thence to the Lake of the Woods ; thence to the head of the Mississippi 
River; down its center to the 81st parallel of latitude, then on that line 
east to the head of the Appalachicola River ; down its center to its junc- 
tion with the Flint ; thence straight to the head of St. Mary's River, and 
thence down along its center to the Atlantic Ocean. 

Following the cessation of hostilities with England, several posts 
were still occupied by the British in the North and West. Among these 
was Detroit, still in the hands of the enemy. Numerous engagements 
with the Indians throughout Ohio and Indiana occurred, upon whose 
lands adventurous whites would settle ere the title had been acquired by 
the proper treaty. 

To remedy this latter evil, Congress appointed commissioners to 
treat with the natives and purchase their lands, and prohibited the set- 
tlement of the territory until this could be done. Before the close of the 
year another attempt was made to capture Detroit, which was, however, 
not pushed, and Virginia, no longer feeling the interest in the Northwest 
she had formerly done, withdrew her troops, having on the 20th of 
December preceding authorized the whole of her possessions to be deeded 
to the United States. This was done on the 1st of March following, and 
the Northwest Territory passed from the control of the Old Dominion. 
To Gen. Clark and his soldiers, however, she gave a tract of one hundred 
and fifty thousand acres of land, to be situated any where north of the 
Ohio wherever they chose to locate them. They selected the region 
opposite the falls of the Ohio, where is now the dilapidated village of 
Clarksville, about midway between the Cities of New Albany and Jeffer- 
sonville, Indiana. 

While the frontier remained thus, and Gen. Haldimand at Detroit 
refused to evacuate alleging that he had no orders from his King to do 
so, settlers were rapidly gathering about the inland forts. In the Spring 
of 1784, Pittsburgh was regularly laid out, and from the journal of Arthur 
Lee, who passed through the town soon after on his way to the Indian 
council at Fort Mcintosh, we suppose it was not very prepossessing in 
appearance. He says : 

" Pittsburgh is inhabited almost entirely by Scots and Irish, who 
live in paltry log houses, and are as dirty as if in the north of Ireland or 
even Scotland. There is a great deal of trade carried on, the goods being 
bought at the vast expense of forty-five shillings per pound from Phila- 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 57 

delphia and Baltimore. They take in the shops flour, wheat, skins and 
money. There are in the town four attorneys, two doctors, and not a 
priest of any persuasion, nor church nor chapel." 

Kentucky at this time contained thirty thousand inhabitants, and 
was beginning to discuss measures for a separation from Virginia. A 
land office was opened at Louisville, and measures were adopted to take 
defensive precaution against the Indians who were yet, in some instances, 
incited to deeds of violence by the British. Before the close of this year, 
1784, the military claimants of land began to occupy them, although no 
entries were recorded until 1787. 

The Indian title to the Northwest was not yet extinguished. They 
held large tracts of lands, and in order to prevent bloodshed Congress 
adopted means for treaties with the original owners and provided for the 
surveys of the lands gained tliereby, as well as for those north of the 
Ohio, now in its possession. On January 31, 1786, a treaty was made 
with the Wabash Indians. The treaty of Fort Stanwix had been made 
in 1784. That at Fort Mcintosh in 1785, and through these much land 
was gained. The Wabash Indians, however, afterward refused to comply 
with the provisions of the treaty made with them, and in order to compel 
their adherence to its provisions, force was used. During the year 1786, 
the free navigation of the Mississippi came up in Congress, and caused 
various discussions, which resulted in no definite action, only serving to 
excite speculation in regard to the western lands. Congress had promised 
bounties of land to the soldiers of the Revolution, but owing to the 
unsettled condition of affairs along the Mississippi respecting its naviga- 
tion, and the trade of the Northwest, that body had, in 1783, declared 
its inability to fulfill these promises until a treaty could be concluded 
between the two Governments. Before the close of the year 1786, how- 
ever, it was able, through the treaties with the Indians, to allow some 
grants and the settlement thereon, and on the 14th of September Con- 
necticut ceded to the General Government the tract of land known as 
the " Connecticut Reserve," and before the close of the following year a 
large tract of land north of the Ohio was sold to a company, who at once 
took measures to settle it. By the provisions of this grant, the company 
were to pay the United States one dollar per acre, subject to a deduction 
of one-third for bad lands and other contingencies. They received 
750,000 acres, bounded on the south by the Ohio, on the east by the 
seventh range of townships, on the west by the sixteenth range, and on 
the north by a line so drawn as to make the grant complete without 
the reservations. In addition to this, Congress afterward granted 100,000 
acres to actual settlers, and 214,285 acres as army bounties under the 
resolutions of 1739 and 1790. 



58 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



While Dr. Cutler, one of the agents of the company, was pressing 
its claims before Congress, that body was bringing into form an ordinance 
for the political and social organization of this Territory. When the 
cession was made by Virginia, in 1784, a plan was offered, but rejected. 
A motion had been made to strike from the proposed plan the prohibition 
of slavery, which prevailed. The plan was then discussed and altered, 
and finally passed unanimously, with the exception of South Carolina. 
By this proposition, the Territory was to have been divided into states 




PRESENT SITE OE LAKE STREET BRIDGE, CHICAGO, IN 1S33. 



by parallels and meridian lines. This, it was thought, would make ten 
states, which were to have been named as follows — beginning at the 
northwest corner and going southwardly : Sylvania, Michigania, Cher- 
sonesus, Assenisipia, Mesopotamia, Illenoia, Saratoga, Washington, Poly- 
potamia and Pelisipia. 

There was a more serious objection to this plan than its category of 
names,— the boundaries. The root of the difficulty was in the resolu- 
tion of Congress passed in October, 1780, which fixed the boundaries 
of the ceded lands to be from one hundred to one hundred and fifty miles 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 59 

square. These resolutions being presented to the Legislatures of Vir- 
ginia and Massachusetts,- they desired a change, and in July, 1786, the 
subject was taken up in Congress, and changed to favor a division into 
not more than five states, and not less than three. This was approved by 
the State Legislature of Virginia. The subject of the Government was 
again taken up by Congress in 1786, and discussed throughout that year 
and until July, 1787, when the famous "Compact of 1787" was passed, 
and the foundation of the government of the Northwest laid. This com- 
pact is fully discussed and explained in the history of Illinois in this book, 
and to it the reader is referred. 

The passage of this act and the grant to the New England Company 
was soon followed by an application to the Government by John Cleves 
Symmes, of New Jersey, for a grant of the land between the Miamis. 
This gentleman had visited these lands soon after the treaty of 1786, and, 
being greatly pleased with them, offered similar terms to those given to the 
New England Company. The petition was referred to the Treasury 
Board with power to act, and a contract was concluded the following- 
year. During the Autumn the directors of the New England Company 
were preparing to occupy their grant the following Spring, and upon the 
23d of November made arrangements for a party of forty-seven men, 
under the superintendency of Gen. Rufus Putnam, to set forward. Six 
boat-builders were to leave at once, and on the first of January the sur- 
veyors and their assistants, twenty-six in number, were to meet at Hart- 
ford and proceed on their journey westward ; the remainder to follow as 
soon as possible. Congress, in the meantime, upon the od of October, 
had ordered seven hundred troops for defense of the western settlers, and 
to prevent unauthorized intrusions ; and two days later appointed Arthur 
St. Clair Governor of the Territory of the Northwest. 

AMERICAN SETTLEMENTS. 

The civil organization of the Northwest Territory was now com- 
plete, and notwithstanding the uncertainty of Indian affairs, settlers from 
the East began to come into the country rapidly. The New England 
Company sent their men during the Winter of 1787-8 pressing on over 
the Alleghenies by the old Indian path which had been opened into 
Braddock's road, and which has since been made a national turnpike 
from Cumberland westward. Through the weary winter days they toiled 
on, and by April were all gathered on the Yohiogany, where boats had 
been built, and at once started for the Muskingum. Here they arrived 
on the 7th of that month, and unless the Moravian missionaries be regarded 
as the pioneers of Ohio, this little band can justly claim that honor. 



60 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



Gen. St. Clair, the appointed Governor of the Northwest, not having 
yet arrived, a set of laws were passed, written out, and published by 
being nailed to a tree in the embryo town, and Jonathan Meigs appointed 
to administer them. 

Washington in writing of this, the first American settlement in the 
Northwest, said : " No colony in America was ever settled under 
such favorable auspices as that which has just commenced at Muskingum. 
Information, property and strength will be its characteristics. I know 
many of its settlers personally, and there never were men better calcu- 
lated to promote the welfare of such a community." 




A PIONEER PAVELLING. 



On the 2d of July a meeting of the directors and agents was held 
on the banks of the Muskingum, " for the purpose of naming the new- 
born city and its squares." As yet the settlement was known as the 
"Muskingum," but that was now changed to the name Marietta, in honor 
of Marie Antoinette. The square upon which the block - houses stood 
was called "Campus Martins ;" square number 19, " Capitolium ;" square 
number 61, "Cecilia ;" and the great road through the covert way, " Sacra 
Via." Two days after, an oration was delivered by James M. Varnum, 
who with S. H. Parsons and John Armstrong had been appointed to the 
judicial bench of the territory on the 16th of October, 1787. On July 9, 
Gov. St. Clair arrived, and the colony began to assume form. The act 
of 1787 provided two district grades of government for the Northwest, 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 61 

under the first of which the whole power was invested in the hands of a 
governor and three district judges. This was immediately formed upon 
the Governor's arrival, and the first laws of the colony passed on the 25th 
of July. These provided for the organization of the militia, and on the 
next daj r appeared the Governor's proclamation, erecting all that country 
that had been ceded by the Indians east of the Scioto River into the 
County of Washington. From that time forward, notwithstanding the 
doubts yet existing as to the Indians, all Marietta prospered, and on the 
2d of September the first court of the territory was held with imposing 
ceremonies. 

The emigration westward at this time was very great. The com- 
mander at Fort Harmer, at the mouth of the Muskingum, reported four 
thousand five hundred persons as having passed that post between Feb- 
ruary and June, 1788 — many of whom would have purchased of the 
"Associates," as the New England Company was called, had they been 
ready to receive them. 

On the 26th of November, 1787, Symmes issued a pamphlet stating 
the terms of his contract and the plan of sale he intended to adopt. In 
January, 1788, Matthias Denman, of New Jersey, took an active interest 
in Symmes' purchase, and located among other tracts the sections upon 
which Cincinnati has been built. Retaining one-third of this locality, he 
sold the other two-thirds to Robert Patterson and John Filson, and the 
three, about August, commenced to lay out a town on the spot, which 
was designated as being opposite Licking River, to the mouth of which 
they proposed to have a road cut from Lexington. The naming of the 
town is thus narrated in the "Western Annals " : — " Mr. Filson, who had 
been a schoolmaster, was appointed to name the town, and, in respect to 
its situation, and as if with a prophetic perception of the mixed race that 
were to inhabit it in after days, he named it Losantiville, which, being 
interpreted, means : ville, the town ; anti, against or opposite to ; os, the 
mouth ; L. of Licking." 

Meanwhile, in July, Symmes got thirty persons and eight four-horse 
teams under way for the West. These reached Limestone (now Mays- 
ville) in September, where were several persons from Redstone. Here 
Mr. Symmes tried to found a settlement, but the great freshet of 1789 
caused the " Point," as it was and is yet called, to be fifteen feet under 
water, and the settlement to be abandoned. The little band of settlers 
removed to the mouth of the Miami. Before Symmes and his colony left 
the " Point," two settlements had been made on his purchase. The first 
was by Mr. Stiltes, the original projector of the whole plan, who, with a 
colony of Redstone people, had located at the mouth of the Miami, 
whither Symmes went with his Maysville colony. Here a clearing had 



62 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



been made by the Indians owing to the great fertility of the soil. Mr. 
Stiltes with his colony came to this place on the 18th of November, 1788, 
with twenty-six persons, and, building a block-house, prepared to remain 
through the Winter. They named the settlement Columbia. Here they 
were kindly treated by the Indians, but suffered greatly from the flood 
of 1789. 

On the 4th of March, 1789, the Constitution of the United States 
went into operation, and on April 30, George Washington was inaug- 
urated President of the American people, and during the next Summer, 
an Indian war was commenced by the tribes north of the Ohio. The 
President at first used pacific means ; but these failing, he sent General 
Harmer against the hostile tribes. He destroyed several villages, but 




LAKE BLUFF. 

The frontage of Lake Bluff Grounds on Lake Michigan, with one hundred and seventy feet of gradual ascent. 



was defeated in two battles, near the present City of Fort Wayne, 
Indiana. From this time till the close of 1795, the principal events were 
the wars with the various Indian tribes. In 1796, General St. Clair 
was appointed in command, and marched against the Indians ; but while 
he was encamped on a stream, the St. Mary, a branch of the Maumee, 
he was attacked and defeated with the loss of six hundred men. 

General Wayne was now sent against the savages. In August, 1794, 
he met them near the rapids of the Maumee, and gained a complete 
victory. This success, followed by vigorous measures, compelled the 
Indians to sue for peace, and on the 30th of July, the following year, the 
treaty of Greenville was signed by the principal chiefs, by which a large 
tract of country was ceded to the United States. 

Before proceeding in our narrative, we will pause to notice Fort 
Washington, erected in the early part of this war on the site of Cincinnati. 
Nearly all of the great cities of the Northwest, and indeed of the 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 63 

whole country, have had their nuclei in those rude pioneer structures, 
known as forts or stockades. Thus Forts Dearborn, Washington, Pon- 
chartrain, mark the original sites of the now proud Cities of Chicago, 
Cincinnati and Detroit. So of most of the flourishing cities east and west 
of the Mississippi. Fort Washington, erected by Doughty in 1790, was a 
rude but highly interesting structure. It was composed of a number of 
strongly-built hewed log cabins. Those designed for soldiers' barracks 
were a story and a half high, while those composing the officers quarters 
were more imposing and more conveniently arranged and furnished. 
The whole were so placed as to form a hollow square, enclosing about an 
acre of ground, with a block house at each of the four angles. 

The logs for the construction of this fort were cut from the ground 
upon which it was erected. It stood between Third and Fourth Streets 
of the present city (Cincinnati) extending east of Eastern Row, now 
Broadway, which was then a narrow alley, and the eastern' boundary of 
of the town as it was originally laid out. On the bank of the river, 
immediately in front of the fort, was an appendage of the fort, called the 
Artificer's Yard. It contained about two acres of ground, enclosed by 
small contiguous buildings, occupied by workshops and quarters of 
laborers. Within this enclosure there was a large two-story frame house, 
familiarly called the " Yellow House," built for the accommodation of 
the Quartermaster General. For many years this was the best finished 
and most commodious edifice in the Queen City. Fort Washington was 
for some time the headquarters of both the civil and military governments 
of the Northwestern Territory. 

Following the consummation of the treaty various gigantic land spec- 
ulations were entered into by different persons, who hoped to obtain 
from the Indians in Michigan and northern Indiana, large tracts of lands. 
These were generally discovered .in time to prevent the outrageous 
schemes from being carried out, and from involving the settlers in war. 
On October 27, 1795, the treaty between the United States and Spain 
was signed, whereby the free navigation of the Mississippi was secured. 

No sooner had the treaty of 1795 been ratified than settlements began 
to pour rapidly into the West. The great event of the year 1796 was the 
occupation of that part of the Northwest including Michigan, which was 
this year, under the provisions of the treaty, evacuated by the British 
forces. The United States, owing to certain conditions, did not feel 
justified in addressing the authorities in Canada in relation to Detroit 
and other frontier posts. When at last the British authorities were 
called to give them up, they at once complied, and General Waj r ne, who 
had done so much to preserve the frontier settlements, and who, before 
the year's close, sickened and died near Erie, transferred his head- 



64 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

quarters to the neighborhood of the lakes, where a county named after 
him was formed, which included the northwest of Ohio, all of Michigan, 
and the northeast of Indiana. During this same year settlements were 
formed at the present City of Chillicothe, along the Miami from Middle- 
town to Piqua, while in the more distant West, settlers and speculators 
began to appear in great numbers. In September, the City of Cleveland 
was laid out, and during the Summer and Autumn, Samuel Jackson and 
Jonathan Sharpless erected the first manufactory of paper — the " Red- 
stone Paper Mill" — in the West. St. Louis contained some seventy 
houses, and Detroit over three hundred, and along the river, contiguous 
to it, were more than three thousand inhabitants, mostly French Canadians, 
Indians and half-breeds, scarcely any Americans venturing yet into that 
part of the Northwest. 

The election of representatives for the territory had taken place, 
and on the 4th of February, 1799, they convened at Losantiville — now 
known as Cincinnati, having been named so by Gov. St. Clair, and 
considered the capital of the Territory — to nominate persons from whom 
the members of the Legislature were to be chosen in accordance with 
a previous" ordinance. This nomination being made, the Assembly 
adjourned until the 16th of the following September. From those named 
the President selected as members of the council, Henry Vandenburg, 
of Vincennes, Robert Oliver, of Marietta, James Findlay and Jacob 
Burnett, of Cincinnati, and David Vance, of Vanceville. On the 16th 
of September the Territorial Legislature met, and on the 24th the two 
houses were duly organized, Henry Vandenburg being elected President 
of the Council. 

The message of Gov. St. Clair was addressed to the Legislature 
September 20th, and on October 13th that body elected as a delegate to 
Congress Gen. Wm. Henry Harrison, who received eleven of the votes 
cast, being a majority of one over his opponent, Arthur St. Clair, son of 
Gen. St. Clair. 

The whole number of acts passed at this session, and approved by 
the Governor, were thirty-seven — eleven others were passed, but received 
his veto. The most important of those passed related to the militia, to 
the administration, and to taxation. On the 19th of December this pro- 
tracted session of the first Legislature in the West was closed, and on the 
30th of December the President nominated Charles Willing Bryd to the 
office of Secretary of the Territory vice Wm. Henry Harrison, elected to 
Congress. The Senate confirmed his nomination the next day. 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 65 



DIVISION OF THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

The increased emigration to the Northwest, the extent of the domain, 
and the inconvenient modes of travel, made it very difficult to conduct 
the ordinary operations of government, and rendered the efficient action 
of courts almost impossible. To remedy this, it was deemed advisable to 
divide the territory for civil purposes. Congress, in 1800, appointed a 
committee to examine the question and report some means for its solution. 
This committee, on the 3d of March, reported that : 

" In the three western countries there has been but one court having 
cognizance of crimes, in five years, and the immunity which offenders 
experience attracts, as to an asylum, the most vile and abandoned crim- 
inals, and at the same time deters useful citizens from making settlements 
in such society. The extreme necessity of judiciary attention and assist- 
ance is experienced in civil as well as in criminal cases. * * * * To 
minister a remedy to these and other evils, it occurs to this committee 
that it is expedient that a division of said territory into two distinct and 
separate governments should be made ; and that such division be made 
by a line beginning at the mouth of the Great Miami River, running 
directly north until it intersects the boundary between the United States 
and Canada." 

The report was accepted by Congress, and, in accordance with its 
suggestions, that body passed an Act extinguishing the Northwest Terri- 
tory, which Act was approved May 7. Among its provisions were these : 

" That from and after July 4 next, all that part of the Territory of 
the United States northwest of the Ohio River, which lies to the westward 
of a line beginning at a point on the Ohio, opposite to the mouth of the 
Kentucky River, and running thence to Fort Recovery, and thence north 
until it shall intersect the territorial line between the United States and 
Canada, shall, for the purpose of temporary government, constitute a 
separate territory, and be called the Indiana Territory." 

After providing for the exercise of the civil and criminal powers of 
the territories, and other provisions, the Act further provides : 

" That until it shall otherwise be ordered by the Legislatures of the 
said Territories, respectively, Chillicothe on the Scioto River shall be the 
seat of government of the Territory of the United States northwest of the 
Ohio River ; and that St. Vincennes on the Wabash River shall be the 
seat of government for the Indiana Territory." 

Gen. Wm. Henry Harrison was appointed Governor of the Indiara 
Territory, and entered upon his duties about a year later. Connecticut 
also about this time released her claims to the reserve, and in March a law 



66 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

was passed accepting this cession. Settlements had been made upon 
thirty-five of the townships in the reserve, mills had been built, and seven 
hundred miles of road cut in various directions. On the 3d of November 
the General Assembly met at Chillicothe. Near the close of the year, 
the first missionary of the Connecticut Reserve came, who found no 
township containing more than eleven families. It was upon the first of 
October that the secret treaty had been made between Napoleon and the 
King of Spain, whereby the latter agreed to cede to France the province 
of Louisiana. 

In January, 1802, the Assembly of the Northwestern Territory char- 
tered the college at Athens. From the earliest dawn of the western 
colonies, education was promptly provided for, and as early as 1787, 
newspapers were issued from Pittsburgh and Kentucky, and largely read 
throughout the frontier settlements. Before the close of this year, the 
Congress of the United States granted to the citizens of the Northwestern 
territory the formation of a State government. One of the provisions of 
the "compact of 1787" provided that whenever the number of inhabit- 
ants within prescribed limits exceeded 45,000, they should be entitled to 
a separate government. The prescribed limits of Ohio contained, from a 
census taken to ascertain the legality of the act, more than that number, 
and on the 30th of April, 1802, Congress passed the act defining its limits, 
and on the 29th of November the Constitution of the new State of Ohio, 
so named from the beautiful river forming its southern boundary, came 
into existence. The exact limits of Lake Michigan were not then known, 
but the territory now included within the State of Michigan was wholly 
within the territory of Indiana. 

Gen. Harrison, while residing at Vincennes, made several treaties 
with the Indians, thereby gaining large tracts of lands. The next }*ear is 
memorable in the history of the West for the purchase of Louisiana from 
France by the United States for $15,000,000. Thus by a peaceful mode, 
the domain of the United States was extended over a large tract of 
country west of the Mississippi, and was for a time under the jurisdiction 
of the Northwest government, and, as has been mentioned in the early 
part of this narrative, was called the "New Northwest." The limits 
of this history will not allow a description of its territory. The same year 
large grants of land were obtained from the Indians, and the House of 
Representatives of the new State of Ohio signed a bill respecting the 
College Township in the district of Cincinnati. 

Before the close of the year, Gen. Harrison obtained additional 
grants of lands from the various Indian nations in Indiana and the present 
limits of Illinois, and on the 18th of August, 1804, completed a treaty at 
St. Louis, whereby over 51,000,000 acres of lands were obtained from the 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 67 

aborigines. Measures were also taken to learn the condition of affairs in 
and about Detroit. 

C. Jouett, the Indian agent in Michigan, still a part of Indiana Terri- 
tory, reported as follows upon the condition of matters at that post : 

" The Town of Detroit. — The charter, which is for fifteen miles 
square, was granted in the time of Louis XIV. of France, and is now, 
from the best information I have been able to get, at Quebec. Of those 
two hundred and twenty-five acres, only four are occupied by the town 
and Fort Lenault. The remainder is a common, except twenty-four 
acres, which were added twenty years ago to a farm belonging to Wm. 
Macomb. * * * A stockade incloses the town, fort and citadel. The 
pickets, as well as the public houses, are in a state of gradual decay. The 
streets are narrow, straight and regular, and intersect each other at right 
angles. The houses are, for the most part, low and inelegant." 

During this year, Congress granted a township of land for the sup- 
port of a college, and began to offer inducements for settlers in these 
wilds, and the country now comprising the State of Michigan began to 
fill rapidly with settlers along its southern borders. This same year, also, 
a law was passed organizing the Southwest Territory, dividing it into two 
portions, the Territory of New Orleans, which city was made the seat of 
government, and the District of Louisiana, which was annexed to the 
domain of Gen. Harrison. 

On the 11th of January, 1805, the Territory of Michigan was formed, 
Wm. Hull was appointed governor, with headquarters at Detroit, the 
change to take effect on June 30. On the 11th of that month, a fire 
occurred at Detroit, which destroyed almost every building in the place. 
When the officers of the new territory reached the post, .they found it in 
ruins, and the inhabitants scattered throughout the country. Rebuild- 
ing, however, soon commenced, and ere long the town contained more 
houses than before the fire, and many of them much better built. 

While this was being done, Indiana had passed to the second grade 
of government, and through her General Assembly had obtained large 
tracts of land from the Indian tribes. To all this the celebrated Indian, 
Tecumthe or Tecumseh, vigorously protested, and it was the main cause 
of his attempts to unite the various Indian tribes in a conflict with the 
settlers. To obtain a full account of these attempts, the workings of the 
British, and the signal failure, culminating in the death of Tecumseh at 
the battle of the Thames, and the close of the war of 1812 in the Northwest, 
we will step aside in our story, and relate the principal events of his life, 
and his connection with this conflict. 



Q$ 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY, 




TECUMSEH, THE SHAWANOE CHIEFTAIN. 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. ft'j 



TECUMSEH, AND THE WAR OF 1812. 

This famous Indian chief was born about the year 1768, not far from 
the site of the present City of Piqua, Ohio. His father, Puckeshinwa, 
was a member of the Kisopok tribe of the Swanoese nation, and his 
mother, Methontaske, was a member of the Turtle tribe of the same 
people. They removed from Florida about the middle of the last century 
to the birthplace of Tecumseh. In 1774, his father, who had risen to be 
chief, was slain at the battle of Point Pleasant, and not long after Tecum- 
seh, by his bravery, became the leader of his tribe. In 1795 he was 
declared chief, and then lived at Deer Creek, near the site of the 
present City of Urbana. He remained here about one year, when he 
returned to Piqua, and in 1798, he went to White River, Indiana. In 
1805, he and his brother, Laulewasikan (Open Door), who had announced 
himself as a prophet, went to a tract of land on the Wabash River, given 
them by the Pottawatomies and Kickapoos. From this date the chief 
comes into prominence. He was now about thirty-seven years of age, 
was five feet and ten inches in height, was stoutly built, and possessed of 
enormous powers of endurance. His countenance was naturally pleas- 
ing, and he was, in general, devoid of those savage attributes possessed 
by most Indians. It is stated he could read and write, and had a confi- 
dential secretary and adviser, named Billy Caldwell, a half-breed, who 
afterward became chief of the Pottawatomies. He occupied the first 
house built on the site of Chicago. At this time, Tecumseh entered 
upon the great work of his life. He had long objected to the grants of 
land made by the Indians to the whites, and determined to unite all the 
Indian tribes into a league, in order that no treaties or grants of land 
could be made save by the consent of this confederation. 

He traveled constantly, going from north to south ; from the south 
to the north, everywhere urging the Indians to this step. He was a 
matchless orator, and his burning words had their effect. 

Gen. Harrison, then Governor of Indiana, by watching the move- 
ments of the Indians, became convinced that a grand conspiracy was 
forming, and made preparations to defend the settlements. Tecumseh's 
plan was similar to Pontiac's, elsewhere described, and to the cunning 
artifice of that chieftain was added his own sagacity. 

During the year 1809, Tecumseh and the prophet were actively pre- 
paring for the work. In that year, Gen. Harrison entered into a treaty 
with the Delawares, Kickapoos, Pottawatomies, Miamis, Eel River Indians 
and Weas, in which these tribes ceded to the whites certain lands upon 
the Wabash, to all of which Tecumseh entered a bitter protest, averring 



70 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

as one principal reason that he did not want the Indians to give up any 
lands north and west of the Ohio River. 

Tecumseh, in August, 1810, visited the General at Vincennes and 
held a council relating to the grievances of the Indians. Becoming unduly 
angry at this conference he was dismissed from the village, and soon after 
departed to incite the southern Indian tribes to the conflict. 

Gen. Harrison determined to move upon the chiefs headquarters at 
Tippecanoe, and for this purpose went about sixty-five miles up the 
Wabash, where he built Fort Harrison. From this place he went to the 
prophet's town, where he informed the Indians he had no hostile inten- 
tions, provided they were true to the existing treaties. He encamped 
near the village early in October, and on the morning of November 7, he 
was attacked by a large force of the Indians, and the famous battle of 
Tippecanoe occurred. The Indians were routed and their town broken 
up. Tecumseh returning not long after, was greatl}- exasperated at his 
brother, the prophet, even threatening to kill him for rashly precipitating 
the war, and foiling his (Tecumseh's) plans. 

Tecumseh sent word to Gen. Harrison that he was now returned 
from the South, and was ready to visit the. President as had at one time 
previously been proposed. Gen. Harrison informed him he could not go 
as a chief, which method Tecumseh desired, and the visit was never 
made. 

In June of the following year, he visited the Indian agent at 
Fort Wayne. Here he disavowed any intention to make a war against 
the United States, and reproached Gen. Harrison for marching against his 
people. The agent replied to this ; Tecumseh listened with a cold indif- 
ference, and after making a few general remarks, with a haughty air drew 
his blanket about him, left the council house, and departed for Fort Mai- 
den, in Upper Canada, where he joined the British standard. 

He remained under this Government, doing effective work for the 
Crown while engaged in the war of 1812 which now opened. He was, 
however, always humane in his treatment of the prisoners, never allow- 
ing his warriors to ruthlessly mutilate the bodies of those slain, or wan- 
tonly murder the captive. 

In the Summer of 1813, Perry's victory on Lake Erie occurred, and 
shortly after active preparations were made to capture Maiden. On the 
27th of September, the American army, under Gen. Harrison, set sail for 
the shores of Canada, and in a few hours stood around the ruins of Mai- 
den, from which the British army, under Proctor, had retreated to Sand- 
wich, intending to make its way to the heart of Canada by the Valley oi 
the Thames. On the 29th Gen. Harrison was at Sandwich, and Gen 
McArthur took possession of Detroit and the territory of Michigan. 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



71 



On the 2d of October, the Americans began their pursuit of Proctor, 
whom they overtook on the 5th, and the battle of the Thames followed. 
Early in the engagement, Tecumseh who was at the head of the column 
of Indians was slain, and they, no longer hearing the voice of their chief- 
tain, fled. The victory was decisive, and practically closed the war in 
the Northwest. 




INDIANS ATTACKING A STOCKADE. 



Just who killed the great chief has been a matter of much dispute ; 
but the weight of opinion awards the act to Col. Richard M. Johnson, 
who fired at him with a pistol, the shot proving fatal. 

In 1805 occurred Burr's Insurrection. He took possession of a 
beautiful island in the Ohio, after the killing of Hamilton, and is charged 
by many with attempting to set up an independent government. His 
plans were frustrated by the general government, his property confiscated 
and he was compelled to flee the country for safety. 



72 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

In January, 1807, Governor Hull, of Michigan Territory, made a 
treaty with the Indians, whereby all that peninsula was ceded to the 
United States. Before the close of the year, a stockade was built about 
Detroit. It was also during this }^ear that Indiana and Illinois endeavored 
to obtain the repeal of that section of the compact of 1787, whereby 
slavery was excluded from the Northwest Territory. These attempts, 
however, all signally failed. 

In 1809 it was deemed advisable to divide the Indiana Territory. 
This was done, and the Territory of Illinois was formed from the western 
part, the seat of government being fixed at Kaskaskia. The next year, 
the intentions of Tecumseh manifested themselves in open hostilities, and 
then began the events already narrated. 

While this war was in progress, emigration to the West went on with 
surprising rapidity. In 1811, under Mr. Roosevelt of New York, the 
first steamboat trip was made on the Ohio, much to the astonishment of 
the natives, many of whom fled in terror at the appearance of the 
" monster." It arrived at Louisville on the 10th day of October. At the 
close of the first week of January, 1812, it arrived at Natchez, after being 
nearly overwhelmed in the great earthquake which occurred while on its 
downward trip. 

The battle of the Thames was fought on October 6, 1813. It 
effectually closed hostilities in the Northwest, although peace was not 
fully restored until July 22, 1814, when a treaty was formed at Green- 
ville, under the direction of General Harrison, between the United States 
and the Indian tribes, in which it was stipulated that the Indians should 
cease hostilities against the Americans if the war were continued. Such, 
happily, was not the case, and on the 24th of December the treaty 
of Ghent was signed by the representatives of England and the United 
States. This treaty was followed the next year by treaties with various 
Indian tribes throughout the West and Northwest, and quiet was again 
restored in this part of the new world. 

On the 18th of March, 1816, Pittsburgh was incorporated as a city. 
It then had a population of 8,000 people, and was already noted for its 
manufacturing interests. On April 19, Indiana Territory was allowed 
to form a state government. At that time there were thirteen counties 
organized, containing about sixty -three thousand inhabitants. The first 
election of state officers was held in August, when Jonathan Jennings 
was chosen Governor. The officers were sworn in on November 7, and 
on December 11, the State was formally admitted into the Union. For 
some time the seat of government was at Corydon, but a more central 
location being desirable, the present capital, Indianapolis (City of Indiana), 
was laid out January 1, 1825. 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 73 

On the 28th of December the Bank of Illinois, at Shawneetown, was 
chartered, with a capital of $300,000. At this period all banks were 
under the control of the States, and were allowed to establish branches 
at different convenient points. 

Until this time Chillicothe and Cincinnati had in turn enjoyed the 
privileges of being the capital of Ohio. But the rapid settlement of the 
northern and eastern portions of the State demanded, as in Indiana, a 
more central location, and before the close of the year, the site of Col- 
umbus was selected and surveyed as the future capital of the State. 
Banking had begun in Ohio as early as 1808, when the first bank was 
chartered at Marietta, but here as elsewhere it did not bring to the state 
the hoped-for assistance. It and other banks were subsequently unable 
to redeem their currency, and were obliged to suspend. 

In 1818, Illinois was made a state, and all the territory north of her 
northern limits was erected into a separate territory and joined to Mich- 
igan for judicial purposes. By the following year, navigation of the lakes 
was increasing with great rapidity and affording an immense source of 
revenue to the dwellers in the Northwest, but it was not until 1826 that 
the trade was extended to Lake Michigan, or that steamships began to 
navigate the bosom of that inland sea. 

Until the year 1832, the commencement of the Black Hawk War, 
but few hostilities were experienced with the Indians. Roads were 
opened, canals were dug, cities were built, common schools were estab- 
lished, universities were founded, many of which, especially the Michigan 
University, have achieved a world wide-reputation. The people were 
becoming wealthy. The domains of the United States had been extended, 
and had the sons of the forest been treated with honesty and justice, the 
record of many years would have been that of peace and continuous pros- 
perity. 

BLACK HAWK AND THE BLACK HAWK WAR. 

This conflict, though confined to Illinois, is an important epoch in 
the Northwestern history, being the last war with the Indians in this part 
of the United States. 

Ma-ka T tai-me-she-kia-kiah, or Black Hawk, was born in the principal 
Sac village, about three miles from the junction of Rock River with the 
Mississippi, in the year 1767. His father's name was Py-e-sa or Pahaes ; 
his grandfather's, Na-na-ma-kee, or the Thunderer. Black Hawk early 
distinguished himself as a warrior, and at the age of fifteen was permitted 
to paint and was ranked among the braves. About the year 1783, he 
went on an expedition against the enemies of his nation, the Osages, one 



74 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 




BLACK HAWK, THE SAC CHIEFTAIN. 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 75 

of whom he killed and scalped, and for this deed of Indian bravery he was 
permitted to join in the scalp dance. Three or four years after he, at the 
head of two hundred braves, went on another expedition against the 
Osages, to avenge the murder of some women and children belonging to 
his own tribe. Meeting an equal number of Osage warriors, a fierce 
battle ensued, in which the latter tribe lost one-half their number. The 
Sacs lost only about nineteen warriors. He next attacked the Cherokees 
for a similar cause. In a severe battle with them, near the present City 
of St. Louis, his father was slain, and Black Hawk, taking possession of 
the " Medicine Bag," at once announced himself chief of the Sac nation. 
He had now conquered the Cherokees, and about the year 1800, at the 
head of five hundred Sacs and Foxes, and a hundred Iowas, he waged 
war against the Osage nation and subdued it. For two years he battled 
successfully with other Indian tribes, all of whom he conquered. 

Black Hawk does not at any time seem to have been friendly to 
the Americans. When on a visit to St. Louis to see his " Spanish 
Father," he declined to see any of the Americans, alleging, as a reason, 
he did not want two fathers. 

The treaty at St. Louis was consummated in 1804. The next year the 
United States Government erected a fort near the head of the Des Moines 
Rapids, called Fort Edwards. This seemed to enrage Black Hawk, who 
at once determined to capture Fort Madison, standing on the west side of 
the Mississippi above the mouth of the Des Moines River. The fort was 
garrisoned by about fifty men. Here he was defeated. The difficulties 
with the British Government arose about this time, and the War of 1812 
followed. That government, extending aid to the Western Indians, by 
giving them arms and ammunition, induced them to remain hostile to the 
Americans. In August, 1812, Black Hawk, at the head of about five 
hundred braves, started to join the British forces at Detroit, passing on 
his way the site of Chicago, where the famous Fort Dearborn Massacre 
h:.' 1 a few days before occurred. Of his connection with the British 
<o,c . eminent but little is known. In 1813 he with his little band descended 
the Mississippi, and attacking some United States troops at Fort Howard 
was defeated. 

In the early part of 1815, the Indian tribes west of the Mississippi 
were notified that peace had been declared between the United States 
and England, and nearly all hostilities had ceased. Black Hawk did not 
sign any treaty, however, until May of the following year. He then recog- 
nized the validity of the treaty at St. Louis in 1804. From the time of 
signing this treaty in 1816, until the breaking out of the war in 1832, he 
and his band passed their time in the common pursuits of Indian life. 

Ten years before the commencement of this war, the Sac and Fox 



76 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

Indians were urged to join the Iowas on the west bank of the Father of 
Waters. All were agreed, save the band known as the British Band, of 
which Black Hawk was leader. He strenuously objected to the removal, 
and was induced to comply only after being threatened with the power of 
the Government. This and various actions on the part of the white set- 
tlers provoked Black Hawk and his band to attempt the capture of his 
native village now occupied by the whites. The war followed. He and 
his actions were undoubtedly misunderstood, and had his wishes been 
acquiesced in at the beginning of the struggle, much bloodshed would 
have been prevented. 

Black Hawk was chief now of the Sac and Fox nations, and a noted 
warrior. He and his tribe inhabited a village on Rock River, nearly three 
miles above its confluence with the Mississippi, where the tribe had lived 
many generations. When that portion of Illinois was reserved to them, 
they remained in peaceable possession of their reservation, spending their 
time in the enjoyment of Indian life. The fine situation of their village 
and the quality of their lands incited the more lawless white settlers, who 
from time to time began to encroach upon the red men's domain. From 
one pretext to another, and from one step to another, the crafty white 
men gained a foothold, until through whisky and artifice they obtained 
deeds from many of the Indians for their possessions. The Indians were 
finally induced to cross over the Father of Waters and locate among the 
Iowas. Black Hawk was strenuously opposed to all this, but as the 
authorities of Illinois and the United States thought this the best move, he 
was forced to comply. Moreover other tribes joined the whites and urged 
the removal. Black Hawk would not agree to the terms of the treaty 
made with his nation for their lands, and as soon as the military, called to 
enforce his removal, had retired, he returned to the Illinois side of the 
river. A large force was at once raised and marched against him. On 
the evening of May 14, 1832, the first engagement occurred between a 
band from this army and Black Hawk's band, in which the former were 
defeated. 

This attack and its result aroused the whites. A large force of men 
was raised, and Gen. Scott hastened from the seaboard, by way of the 
lakes, with United States troops and artillery to aid in the subjugation of 
the Indians. On the 24th of June, Black Hawk, with 200 warriors, was 
repulsed by Major Demont between Rock River and Galena. The Ameri- 
can army continued to move up Rock River toward the main body of 
the Indians, and on the 21st of July came upon Black Hawk and his band, 
and defeated them near the Blue Mounds. 

Before this action, Gen. Henry, in command, sent word to the main 
army by whom he was immediately rejoined, and the whole crossed the 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 77 

Wisconsin in pursuit of Black Hawk and his band who were fleeing to the 
Mississippi. The} r were overtaken on the 2d of August, and in the battle 
which followed the power of the Indian chief was completely broken. He 
fled, but was seized by the Winnebagoes and delivered to the whites. 

On the 21st of September, 1832, Gen. Scott and Gov. Reynolds con- 
cluded a treaty with the Winnebagoes, Sacs and Foxes by which they 
ceded to the United States a vast tract of country, and agreed to remain 
peaceable with the whites. For the faithful performance of the provi- 
sions of this treaty on the part of the Indians, it was stipulated that 
Black Hawk, his two sons, the prophet Wabokieshiek, and six other chiefs 
of the hostile bands should be retained as hostages during the pleasure 
of the President. They were confined at Fort Barracks and put in irons. 

The next Spring, by order of the Secretary of War, they were taken 
to Washington. From there they were removed to Fortress Monroe, 
"there to remain until the conduct of their nation was such as to justify 
their being set at liberty." They were retained here until the 4th of 
June, when the authorities directed them to be taken to the principal 
cities so that they might see the folly of contending against the white 
people. Everywhere they were observed by thousands, the name of the 
old chief being extensively known. By the middle of August they 
reached Fort Armstrong on Rock Island, where Black Hawk was soon 
after released to go to his countrymen. As he passed the site of his birth- 
place, now the home of the white man, he was deeply moved. His village 
where he was born, where he had so happily lived, and where he had 
hoped to die, was now another's dwelling place, and he was a wanderer. 

On the next da}' after his release, he went at once to his tribe and 
his lodge, His wife was yet living, and with her he passed the remainder 
of his days. To his credit it may be said that Black Hawk always re- 
mained true to his wife, and served her with a devotion uncommon among 
the Indians, living with her upward of forty years. 

Black Hawk now passed his time hunting and fishing. A deep mel- 
ancholy had settled over him from which he could not be freed. At all 
times when he visited the whites he was received with marked atten- 
tion. He was an honored guest at the old settlers' reunion in Lee County, 
Illinois, at some of their meetings, and received many tokens of esteem. 
In September, 1838, while on his way to Rock Island to receive his 
annuity from the Government, he contracted a severe cold which resulted 
in a fatal attack of bilious fever which terminated his life on October 3. 
His faithful wife, who was devotedly attached to him, mourned deeply 
during his sickness. After his death he was dressed in the uniform pre- 
sented to him by the President while in Washington. He was buried in 
a grave six feet in depth, situated upon a beautiful eminence. " The 



78 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

body was placed in the middle of the grave, in a sitting posture, upon a 
seat constructed for the purpose. On his left side, the cane, given him 
by Henry Clay, was placed upright, with his right hand resting upon it. 
Many of the old warrior's trophies were placed in the grave, and some 
Indian garments, together with his favorite weapons.'" 

No sooner was the Black Hawk war concluded than settlers began 
rapidly to pour into the northern parts of Illinois, and into Wisconsin, 
now free from Indian depredations. Chicago, from a trading post, had 
grown to a commercial center, and was rapidly coming into prominence. 
In 1835, the formation of a State Government in Michigan was discussed, 
but did not take active form until two years later, when the State became 
a part of the Federal Union. 

The main attraction to that portion of the Northwest lying west of 
Lake Michigan, now included in the State of Wisconsin, was its alluvial 
wealth. Copper ore was found about Lake Superior. For some time this 
region was attached to Michigan for judiciary purposes, but in 183(5 was 
made a territory, then including Minnesota and Iowa. The latter State 
was detached two years later. In 1848, Wisconsin was admitted as a 
State, Madison being made the capital. We have now traced the various 
divisions of the Northwest Territory (save a little in Minnesota) from 
the time it was a unit comprising this vast territory, until circumstance?, 
compelled its present division. 



THE NOETHWEST TERRITORY. 



79 



PRESENT CONDITION OF THE NORTHWEST 

Preceding chapters have brought us to the close of the Black Hawk 
war, and we now turn to the contemplation of the growth and prosperity 
of the Northwest under the smile of peace and the blessings of our civili- 
zation. The pioneers of this region date events back to the deep snow 




OLD FORT DEARBORN, 1830. 



of 1831, no one arriving here since that date taking first honors. The 
inciting cause of the immigration which overflowed the prairies early in 
the '30s was the reports of the marvelous beauty and fertility of the 
region distributed through the East by those who had participated in the 
Black Hawk campaign with Gen. Scott. Chicago and Milwaukee then 
had a few hundred inhabitants, and Gurdon S. Hubbard's trail from the 
former city to Kaskaskia led almost through a wilderness. Vegetables 
and clothing were largely distributed through the regions adjoining the 



80 



THE N0RTHWEST TERRITORY. 



lakes by steamers from the Ohio towns. There are men now living in 
Illinois who came to the state when barely an acre was in cultivation, 
and a man now prominent in the business circles of Chicago looked over 
the swampy, cheerless site of that metropolis in 1818 and went south 
ward into civilization. Emigrants from Pennsylvania in 1880 left behind 




LINCOLN MONUMENT, SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS. 

them but one small railway in the coal regions, thirty miles in length, 
and made their way to the Northwest mostly with ox teams, finding in 
Northern Illinois petty settlements scores of miles apart, although the 
southern portion of the state was fairly dotted with farms. The 
water courses of the lakes and rivers furnished transportation to the 
second great army of immigrants, and about 1850 railroads were 
pushed to that extent that, the crisis of 1837 was precipitated upon us, 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



81 



from the effects of which the Western country had not fully recovered 
at the outbreak of the war. Hostilities found the colonists of the prairies 
fully alive to the demands of the occasion, and the honor of recruiting 




u 

o 

S3 

<A 
O 
3 
=5 

Ji 

w 
o 

H 



the vast armies of the Union fell largely to Gov. Yates, of Illinois, and 
Gov. Morton, of Indiana. To recount the share of the glories of the 
campaign won by our Western troops is a needless task, except to 
mention the fact that Illinois gave to the nation the President who saved 



82 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



it, and sent out at the head of one of its regiments tne general who led 
'ts armies to the final victory at Appomattox. The struggle, on the 




CO 
CO 
73 



whole, had a marked effect for the better on the new Northwest, gi dng 
it an impetus which twenty years of peace would not have produced. 
In a large degree this prosperity was an inflated one, and with the rest 
of the Union we have since been compelled to atone therefor by four 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 83 

years of depression of values, of scarcity of employment, and loss of 
fortune. To a less degree, however, than the manufacturing - or mining 
regions has the West suffered during the prolonged panic now so near its 
end. Agriculture, still the leading feature in our industries, has been 
quite prosperous through all these dark years, and the farmers have 
cleared away many incumbrances resting over them from the period of 
fictitious values. The population has steadily increased, the arts and 
sciences are gaining a stronger foothold, the trade area of the region is 
becoming daily more extended, and we have been largely exempt from 
the financial calamities which have nearly wrecked communities on the 
seaboard dependent wholly on foreign commerce or domestic manufacture. 

At the present period there are no great schemes broached for the 
Northwest, no propositions for government subsidies or national works 
of improvement, but the capital of the world is attracted hither for the 
purchase of our products or the expansion of our capacity for serving the 
nation at large. Anew era is dawning as to transportation, and we bid 
fair to deal almost exclusively with the increasing and expanding lines 
of steel rail running through every few miles of territory on the prairies. 
The lake marine will no doubt continue to be useful in the warmer 
season, and to serve as a regulator of freight rates; but experienced 
navigators forecast the decay of the system in moving to the seaboard 
the enormous crops of the West. Within the past five years it has 
become quite common to see direct shipments to Europe and the West 
Indies going through from the second-class towns along the Mississippi 
and Missouri. 

As to popular education, the standard has of late risen very greatly, 
and our schools would be creditable to any section of the Union. 

More and more as the events of the war pass into obscurity will the 
fate of the Northwest be linked with that of the Southwest, and the 
next Congressional apportionment will give the valley of the Mississippi 
absolute control of the legislation of the nation, and do much toward 
securing the removal of the Federal capitol to some more central location. 

Our public men continue to wield the full share of influence pertain- 
ing to their rank in the national autonomy, and seem not to forget that 
for the past sixteen years they and their constituents have dictated the 
principles which should govern the country. 

In a work like this, destined to lie on the shelves of the library for 
generations, and not doomed to daily destruction like a newspaper, one 
can not indulge in the same glowing predictions, the sanguine statements 
of actualities that fill the columns of ephemeral publications. Time may 
bring grief to the pet projects of a writer, and explode castles erected on 
a pedestal of facts. Yet there are unmistakable indications before us of 



84 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

the same radical change in our great Northwest which characterizes its 
history for the past thirty years. Our domain has a sort of natural 
geographical border, save where it melts away to the southward in the 
cattle raising districts of the southwest. 

Our prime interest will for some years doubtless be the growth of 
the food of the world, in which branch it has already outstripped all 
competitors, and our great rival in this duty will naturally be the fertile 
plains of Kansas, Nebraska and Colorado, to say nothing of the new 
empire so rapidly growing up in Texas. Over these regions there is a 
continued progress in agriculture and in railway building, and we must 
look to our laurels. Intelligent observers of events are fully aware of 
the strides made in the way of shipments of fresh meats to Europe, 
many of these ocean cargoes being actually slaughtered in the West and 
transported on ice to the wharves of the seaboard cities. That this new 
enterprise will continue there is no reason to doubt. There are in 
Chicago several factories for the canning of prepared meats for European 
consumption, and the orders for this class of goods are already immense. 
English capital is becoming daily more and more dissatisfied with railway 
loans and investments, and is gradually seeking mammoth outlays in 
lands and live stock. The stock yards in Chicago, Indianapolis and East 
St. Louis are yearly increasing their facilities, and their plant steadily 
grows more valuable. Importations of blooded animals from the pro- 
gressive countries of Europe are destined to greatly improve the quality 
of our beef and mutton. Nowhere is there to be seen a more enticing- 
display in this line than at our state and county fairs, and the interest 
in the matter is on the increase. 

To attempt to give statistics of our grain production for 1877 would 
be useless, so far have we surpassed ourselves in the quantity and 
quality of our product. We are too liable to forget that we are giving 
the world its first article of necessity — its food supply. An opportunity 
to learn this fact so it never can be forgotten was afforded at Chicago at 
the outbreak of the great panic of 1873, when Canadian purchasers, 
fearing the prostration of business might bring about an anarchical condition 
of affairs, went to that city with coin in bulk and foreign drafts to secure 
their supplies in their own currency at first hands. It may be justly 
claimed by the agricultural community that their combined efforts gave 
the nation its first impetus toward a restoration of its crippled industries, 
and their labor brought the gold premium to a lower depth than the 
government was able to reach by its most intense efforts of legislation 
and compulsion. The hundreds of millions about to be disbursed for 
farm products have already, by the anticipation common to all commercial 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



nations, set the wheels in motion, and will relieve us from the perils so 
long shadowing our efforts to return to a healthy tone. 

Manufacturing has attained in the chief cities a foothold which bids 
fair to render the Northwest independent of the outside world. Neaiiy 




HTTNTINO PRAIRIE WOLVES IN AX EARLY DAY. 



our whole region has a distribution of coal measures which will in time 
support the manufactures necessary to our comfort and prosperity. As 
to transportation, the chief factor in the production of all articles exce]^ 
food, no section is so magnificently endowed, and our facilities are yearly 
increasing beyond those of any other region. 



86 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

The period from a central point of the war to the outbreak of the 
panic was marked by a tremendous growth in our railway lines, but the 
depression of the times caused almost a total suspension of operations. 
Now that prosperity is returning to our stricken country we witness its 
anticipation by the railroad interest in a series of projects, extensions, 
and leases which bid fair to largely increase our transportation facilities. 
The process of foreclosure and sale of incumbered lines is another matter 
to be considered. In the case of the Illinois Central road, which formerly 
transferred to other lines at Cairo the vast burden of freight destined for 
the Gulf region, we now see the incorporation of the tracks connecting 
through to New Orleans, every mile co-operating in turning toward the 
northwestern metropolis the weight of the inter-state commerce of a 
thousand miles or more of fertile plantations. Three competing routes 
to Texas have established in Chicago their general freight and passenger 
agencies. Four or five lines compete for all Pacific freights to a point as 
as far as the interior of Nebraska. Half a dozen or more splendid bridge 
structures have been thrown across the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers by 
the railways. The Chicago and Northwestern line has become an aggre- 
gation of over two thousand miles of rail, and the Chicago, Milwaukee 
and St. Paul is its close rival in extent and importance. The three lines 
running to Cairo via Vincennes form a through route for all traffic with 
the states to the southward. The chief projects now under discussion 
are the Chicago and Atlantic, which is to unite with lines now built to 
Charleston, and the Chicago and Canada Southern, which line will con- 
nect with all the various branches of that Canadian enterprise. Our 
latest new road is the Chicago and Lake Huron, formed of three lines, 
and entering the city from Valparaiso on the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne 
and Chicago track. The trunk lines being mainly in operation, the 
progress made in the way of shortening tracks, making air-line branches, 
and running extensions does not show to the advantage it deserves, as 
this process is constantly adding new facilities to the established order 
of things. The panic reduced the price of steel to a point where the 
railways could hardly afford to use iron rails, and all our northwestern 
lines report large relays of Bessemer track. The immense crops now 
being moved have given a great rise to the value of railway stocks, and 
their transportation must result in heavy pecuniary advantages. 

Few are aware of the importance of the wholesale and jobbing trade 
of Chicago. One leading firm has since the panic sold $24,000,000 of 
dry goods in one year, and they now expect most confidently to add 
seventy per cent, to the figures of their last year's business. In boots 
and shoes and in clothing, twenty or more great firms from the east have 
placed here their distributing agents or their factories ; and in groceries 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



87 



Chicago supplies the entire Northwest at rates presenting advantages 
over New York. 

Chicago has stepped in between New York and the rural banks as a 
financial center, and scarcely a banking institution in the grain or cattle 
regions but keeps its reserve funds in the vaults of our commercial insti- 
tutions. Accumulating here throughout the spring and summer months, 
they are summoned home at pleasure to move the products of the 
prairies. This process greatly strengthens the northwest in its financial 
operations, leaving home capital to supplement local operations on 
behalf of home interests. 

It is impossible to forecast the destiny of this grand and growing 
section of the Union. Figures and predictions made at this date might 
seem ten years hence so ludicrously small as to excite only derision. 




TUNZIE HOUSE. 



Early History of Illinois. 



The name of this beautiful Prairie State is derived from Illini, a 
Delaware word signifying Superior Men. It has a French termination, 
and is a symbol of how the two races — the French and the Indians — 
were intermixed during the early history of the country. 

The appellation was no doubt well applied to the primitive inhabit- 
ants of the soil whose prowess in savage warfare long withstood the 
combined attacks of the fierce Iroquois on the one side, and the no less 
savage and relentless Sacs and Foxes on the other. The Illinois were 
once a powerful confederacy, occupying the most beautiful and fertile 
region in the great Valley of the Mississippi, which their enemies coveted 
and struggled long and hard to wrest from them. By the fortunes of 
war they were diminished in numbers, and finally destroyed. " Starved 
Rock," on the Illinois River, according to tradition, commemorates their 
last tragedy, where, it is said, the entire tribe starved rather than sur- 
render. 

EARLY DISCOVERIES. 

The first European discoveries in Illinois date back over two hun- 
dred years. They are a part of that movement which, from the begin- 
ning to the middle of the seventeenth century, brought the French 
Canadian missionaries and fur traders into the Valley of the Mississippi, 
and which, at a later period, established the civil and ecclesiastical 
authority of France from the Gulf of St. Lawrence to the Gulf of Mexico, 
and from the foot-hills of the Alleghanies to the Rocky Mountains. 

The great river of the West had been discovered by DeSoto, the 
Spanish conqueror of Florida, three quarters of a century before the 
French founded Quebec in 1608, but the Spanish left the country a wil- 
derness, without further exploration or settlement within its borders, in 
which condition it remained until the Mississippi was discovered by the 
agents of the French Canadian government, Jolietand Marquette, in 1673. 
These renowned explorers were not the first white visitors to Illinois. 
In 1671 — two years in advance of them — came Nicholas Perrot to Chicago. 
He had been sent by Talon as an agent of the Canadian government tc 

tvS 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 



89 




90 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 

call a great peace convention of Western Indians at Green Bay, prepara- 
tory to the movement for the discovery of the Mississippi. It was 
deemed a good stroke of policy to secure, as far as possible, the friend- 
ship and co-operation of the Indians, far and near, before venturing upon 
an enterprise which their hostility might render disastrous, and which 
their friendship and assistance would do so much to make successful ; 
and to this end Perrot was sent to call together in council the tribes 
throughout the Northwest, and to promise them the commerce and pro- 
tection of the French government. He accordingly arrived at Green 
Bay in 1671, and procuring an escort of Pottawattamies, proceeded in a 
bark canoe upon a visit to the Miamis, at Chicago. Perrot was there- 
fore the first European to set foot upon the soil of Illinois. 

Still there were others before Marquette. In 1672, the Jesuit mis- 
sionaries, Fathers Claude Allouez and Claude Dablon, bore the standard 
of the Cross from their mission at Green Bay through western Wisconsin 
and northern Illinois, visiting the Foxes on Fox River, and the Masquo- 
tines and Kickapoos at the mouth of the Milwaukee. These missionaries 
penetrated on the route afterwards followed by Marquette as far as the 
Kickapoo village at the head of Lake Winnebago, where Marquette, in 
his journey, secured guides across the portage to the Wisconsin. 

The oft-repeated story of Marquette and Joliet is well known. 
They were the agents employed by the Canadian government to discover 
the Mississippi. Marquette was a native of France, born in 1637, a 
Jesuit priest by education, and a man of simple faith and of great zeal and 
devotion in extending the Roman Catholic religion among the Indians. 
Arriving in Canada in 1666, he was sent as a missionary to the far 
Northwest, and, in 1668, founded a mission at Sault Ste. Marie. The 
following year he moved to La Pointe, in Lake Superior, where he 
instructed a branch of the Hurons till 1670, when he removed south, and 
founded the mission at St. Ignace, on the Straits of Mackinaw. Here 
he remained, devoting a portion of his time to the study of the Illinois 
language under a native teacher who had accompanied him to the mission 
from La Pointe, till he was joined by Joliet in the Spring of 1673. By 
the way of Green Bay and the Fox and Wisconsin Rivers, they entered 
the Mississippi, which they explored to the mouth of the Arkansas, and 
returned by the way of the Illinois and Chicago Rivers to Lake Michigan. 

On his way up the Illinois, Marquette visited the great village of 
the Kaskaskias, near what is now Utica, in the county of LaSalle. The 
following year he returned and established among them the mission of 
the Immaculate Virgin Mary, which was the first Jesuit mission founded 
in Illinois and in the Mississippi Valley. The intervening winter he 
had spent in a hut which his companions erected on the Chicago River, a 
few leagues from its mouth. The founding of this mission was the last 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 91 

act of Marquette's life. He died in Michigan, on his way back to Green 
Bay, May 18, 1675. 

FIRST FRENCH OCCUPATION. 

The first French occupation of the territory now embraced in Illi- 
nois was effected by LaSalle in 1680, seven years after the time of Mar- 
quette and Joliet. LaSalle, having constructed a vessel, the " Griffin," 
above the falls of Niagara, which he sailed to Green Bay, and having 
passed thence in canoes to the mouth of the St. Joseph River, by which 
and the Kankakee he reached the Illinois, in January, 1680, erected Fort 
Crevecceur, at the lower end of Peoria Lake, where the city of Peoria is 
now situated. The place where this ancient fort stood may still be seen 
just below the outlet of Peoria Lake. It was destined, however, to a 
temporary existence. From this point, LaSalle determined to descend 
the Mississippi to its mouth, but did not accomplish this purpose till two 
years later — in 1682. Returning to Fort Frontenac for the purpose of 
getting materials with which to rig his vessel, he left the fort in charge of 
Touti, his lieutenant, who during his absence was driven off by the Iro- 
quois Indians. These savages had made a raid upon the settlement of 
the Illinois, and had left nothing in their track but ruin and desolation. 
Mr. Davidson, in his History of Illinois, gives the following graphic 
account of the picture that met the eyes of LaSalle and his companions 
on their return : 

" At the great town of the Illinois they were appalled at the scene 
which opened to their view. No hunter appeared to break its death-like 
silence with a salutatory whoop oi welcome. The plain on which the 
town had stood was now strewn with charred fragments of lodges, which 
had so recently swarmed with savage life and hilarity. To render more 
hideous the picture of desolation, large numbers of *skulls had been 
placed on the upper extremities of lodge-poles which had escaped the 
devouring flames. In the midst of these horrors was the rude fort of 
the spoilers, rendered frightful by the same ghastly relics. A near 
approach showed that the graves had been robbed of their bodies, and 
swarms of buzzards were discovered glutting their loathsome stomachs 
on the reeking corruption. To complete the work of destruction, the 
growing corn of the village had been cut down and burned, while the 
pits containing the products of previous years, had been rifled and their 
contents scattered with wanton waste. It was evident the suspected 
blow of the Iroquois had fallen with relentless fury." 

Tonti had escaped LaSalle knew not whither. Passing down the 
lake in search of him and his men, LaSalle discovered that the fort had 
been destroyed, but the vessel which he had partly constructed was still 



92 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 

on the stocks, and but slightly injured. After further fruitless search, 
failing to find Tonti, he fastened to a tree a painting representing himself 
and party sitting in a canoe and bearing a pipe of peace, and to the paint- 
ing attached a letter addressed to Tonti. 

Tonti had escaped, and, after untold privations, taken shelter among 
the Pottawattamies near Green Bay. These were friendly to the French. 
One of their old chiefs used to say, " There were but three great cap- 
tains in the world, himself, Tonti and LaSalle." 

GENIUS OF LaSALLE. 

We must now return to LaSalle, whose exploits stand out in such 
bold relief. He was born in Rouen, France, in 1643. His father was 
wealthy, but he renounced his patrimony on entering a college of the 
Jesuits, from which he separated and came to Canada a poor man in 1666. 
The priests of St. Sulpice, among whom he had a brother, were then the 
proprietors of Montreal, the nucleus of which was a seminary or con- 
vent founded by that order. The Superior granted to LaSalle a large 
tract of land at LaChine, where he established himself in the fur trade. 
He was a man of daring genius, and outstripped all his competitors in 
exploits of travel and commerce with the Indians. In 1669, he visited 
the headquarters of the great Iroquois Confederacy, at Onondaga, in the 
heart of New York, and, obtaining guides, explored the Ohio River to 
the falls at Louisville. 

In order to understand the genius of LaSalle, it must be remembered 
that for many years prior to his time the missionaries and traders were 
obliged to make their way to the Northwest by the Ottawa River (of 
Canada) on account of the fierce hostility of the Iroquois along the lower 
lakes and Niagara River, which entirely closed this latter route to the 
Upper Lakes. They carried on their commerce chiefly by canoes, pad- 
dling them through the Ottawa to Lake Nipissing, carrying them across 
the portage to French River, and descending that to Lake Huron. This 
being the route by which they reached the Northwest, accounts for the 
fact that all the earliest Jesuit missions were established in the neighbor- 
hood of the Upper Lakes. LaSalle conceived the grand idea of opening 
the route by Niagara River and the Lower Lakes to Canadian commerce 
by sail vessels, connecting it with the navigation of the Mississippi, and 
thus opening a magnificent water communication from the Gulf of St. 
Lawrence to the Gulf of Mexico. This truly grand and comprehensive 
purpose seems to have animated him in all his wonderful achievements 
and the matchless difficulties and hardships he surmounted. As the first 
step in the accomplishment of this object he established himself on Lake 
Ontario, and built and garrisoned Fort Frontenac, the site of the present 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 93 

city of Kingston, Canada. Here he obtained a grant of land from the 
French crown and a body of troops by which he beat back the invading 
Iroquois and cleared the passage to Niagara Falls. Having by this mas- 
terly stroke made it safe to attempt a hitherto untried expedition, his 
next step, as we have seen, was to advance to the Falls with all his 
outfit for building a ship with which to sail the lakes. He was success- 
ful in this undertaking, though his ultimate purpose was defeated by a 
strange combination of untoward circumstances. The Jesuits evidently 
hated LaSalle and plotted against him, because he had abandoned them 
and co-operated with a rival order. The fur traders were also jealous of 
his superior success in opening new channels of commerce. At LaChine 
he had taken the trade of Lake Ontario, which but for his presence there 
would have gone to Quebec. While they were plodding with their bar& 
canoes through the Ottawa he was constructing sailing vessels to com- 
mand the trade of the lakes and the Mississippi. These great plans 
excited the jealousy and envy of the small traders, introduced treason and 
revolt into the ranks of his own companions, and finally led to the foul 
assassination by which his great achievements were prematurely ended. 

In 1682, LaSalle, having completed his vessel at Peoria, descended 
the Mississippi to its confluence with the Gulf of Mexico. Erecting a 
standard on which he inscribed the arms of France, he took formal pos- 
session of the whole valley of the mighty river, in the name of Louis 
.XIV., then reigning, in honor of whom he named the country Louisiana. 

LaSalle then went to France, was appointed Governor, and returned 
with a fleet and immigrants, for the purpose of planting a colony in Illi- 
nois. They arrived in due time in the Gulf of Mexico, but failing to 
find the mouth of the Mississippi, up which LaSalle intended to sail, his 
supply ship, with the immigrants, was driven ashore and wrecked on 
Matagorda Bay. With the fragments of the vessel he constructed a 
stockade and rude huts on the shore for the protection of the immigrants, 
calling the post Fort St. Louis. He then made a trip into New Mexico, 
in search of silver mines, but, meeting with disappointment, returned to 
find his little colony reduced to forty souls. He then resolved to travel 
on foot to Illinois, and, starting with his companions, had reached the 
valley of the Colorado, near the mouth of Trinity river, when he was 
shot by one of his men. This occurred on the 19th of March, 1687. 

Dr. J. W. Foster remarks of him : " Thus fell, not far from the banks 
of the Trinity, Robert Cavalier de la Salle, one of the grandest charac- 
ters that ever figured in American history — a man capable of originating 
the vastest schemes, and endowed with a will and a judgment capable of 
carrying them to successful results. Had ample facilities been placed by 
the King of France at his disposal, the result of the colonization of this 
continent might have been far different from what we now behold." 



94 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 



EARLY SETTLEMENTS. 

A temporary settlement was made at Fort St. Louis, or the old Kas- 
kaskia village, on the Illinois River, in what is now LaSalle County, in 
1682. In 1690, this was removed, with the mission connected with it, to 
Kaskaskia, on the river of that name, emptying into the lower Mississippi 
in St. Clair County. Cahokia was settled about the same time, or at 
least, both of these settlements began in the year 1690, though it is now 
pretty well settled that Cahokia is the older place, and ranks as the oldest 
permanent settlement in Illinois, as well as in the Mississippi Valley. 
The reason for the removal of the .old Kaskaskia settlement and mission, 
was probably because the dangerous and difficult route by Lake Michigan 
and the Chicago portage had been almost abandoned, and travelers and 
traders passed down and up the Mississippi by the Fox and Wisconsin 
River route. They removed to the vicinity of the Mississippi in order 
to be in the line of travel from Canada to Louisiana, that is, the lower 
part of it, for it was all Louisiana then south of the lakes. 

During the period of French rule in Louisiana, the population prob- 
ably never exceeded ten thousand, including whites and blacks. Within 
that portion of it now included in Indiana, trading posts were established 
at the principal Miami villages which stood on the head waters of the 
Maumee, the Wea villages situated at Ouiatenon, on the Wabash, and- 
the Piankeshaw villages at Post Vincennes ; all of which were probably 
visited by French traders and missionaries before the close of the seven- 
teenth century. 

In the vast territory claimed by the French, many settlements of 
considerable importance had sprung up. Biloxi, on Mobile Bay, had 
been founded by DTberville, in 1699 ; Antoine de Lamotte Cadillac had 
founded Detroit in 1701 ; and New Orleans had been founded by Bien- 
ville, under the auspices of the Mississippi Company, in 1718. In Illi- 
nois also, considerable settlements had been made, so that in 1730 they 
embraced one hundred and forty French families, about six hundred " con- 
verted Indians," and many traders and voyageurs. In that portion of the 
country, on the east side of the Mississippi, there were five distinct set- 
tlements, with their respective villages, viz. : Cahokia, near the mouth 
of Cahokia Creek and about five miles below the present city of St. 
Louis ; St. Philip, about forty-five miles below Cahokia, and four miles 
above Fort Chartres ; Fort Chartres, twelve miles above Kaskaskia ; 
Kaskaskia, situated on the Kaskaskia River, five miles above its conflu- 
ence with the Mississippi ; and Prairie dn Rocher, near Fort Chartres. 
To these must be added St. Genevieve and St. Louis, on the west side 
of the Mississippi. These, with the exception of St. Louis, are among 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 95 

the oldest French towns in the Mississippi Valley. Kaskaskia, in its best 
days, was a town of some two or three thousand inhabitants. After it 
passed from the crown of France its population for many years did not 
exceed fifteen hundred. Under British rule, in 1773, the population had 
decreased to four hundred and fifty. As early as 1721, the Jesuits had 
established a college and a monastery in Kaskaskia. 

Fort Chartres was first built under the direction of the Mississippi 
Company, in 1718, by M. de Boisbraint, a military officer, under command 
of Bienville. It stood on the east bank of the Mississippi, about eighteen 
miles below Kaskaskia, and was for some time the headquarters of the 
military commandants of the district of Illinois. 

In the Centennial Oration of Dr. Fowler, delivered at Philadelphia, 
by appointment of Gov. Beveridge, we find some interesting facts with 
regard to the State of Illinois, which we appropriate in this history: 

In 1682 Illin6is became a possession of the French crown, a depend- 
ency of Canada, and a part of Louisiana. In 1765 the English flag was 
run up on old Fort Chartres, and Illinois was counted among the treas- 
ures of Great Britain. 

In 1779 it was taken from the English by Col. George Rogers Clark. 
This man was resolute in nature, wise in council, prudent in policy, bold 
in action, and heroic in danger. Few men who have figured in the his- 
tory of America are more deserving than this colonel. Nothing short of 
first-class ability could have rescued Vincens and all Illinois from the 
English. And it is not possible to over-estimate the influence of this 
achievement upon the republic. In 1779 Illinois became a part of Vir- 
ginia. It was soon known as Illinois County. In 1784 Virginia ceded 
all this territory to the general government, to be cut into States, to be 
republican in form, with " the same right of sovereignty, freedom, and 
independence as the other States." 

In 1787 it was the object of the wisest and ablest legislation found 
in any merely human records. No man can study the secret history of 

THE "COMPACT OF 1787," 

and not feel that Providence was guiding with sleepless eye these unborn 
States. The ordinance that on July 13, 1787, finally became the incor- 
porating act, has a most marvelous history. Jefferson had vainly tried 
to secure a system of government for the northwestern territory. He 
was an emancipationist of that day, and favored the exclusion of slavery 
from the territory Virginia had ceded to the general government ; but 
the South voted him down as often as it came up. In 1787, as late as 
July 10, an organizing act without the anti-slavery clause was pending. 
This concession to the South was expected to carry it. Congress was in 



96 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 

session in New York City. On July 5, Rev. Dr. Manasseh Cutler, of 
Massachusetts, came into New York to lobby on the northwestern terri- 
tory. Everything seemed to fall into his hands. Events were ripe. 

The state of the public credit, the growing of Southern prejudice, 
the basis of his mission, his personal character, all combined to complete 
one of those sudden and marvelous revolutions of public sentiment that 
once in five or ten centuries are seen to sweep over a country like the 
breath of the Almighty. Cutler was a graduate of Yale — received his 
A.M. from Harvard, and his D.D. from Yale. He had studied and taken 
degrees in the three learned professions, medicine, law, and divinity. He 
had thus America's best indorsement. He had published a scientific 
examination of the plants of New England. His name stood second only 
to that of Franklin as a scientist in America. He was a courtly gentle- 
man of the old style, a man of commanding presence, and of inviting 
face. The Southern members said they had never seen such a gentleman 
in the North. He came representing a company that desired to purchase 
a tract of land now included in Ohio, for the purpose of planting a colony. 
It was a speculation. Government money was worth eighteen cents on 
the dollar. This Massachusetts company had collected enough to pur- 
chase 1,500,000 acres of land. Other speculators in New York made 
Dr. Cutler their agent (lobbyist). On the 12th he represented a demand 
for 5,500,000 acres. This would reduce the national debt. Jefferson 
and Virginia were regarded as authority concerning the land Virginia 
had just ceded. Jefferson's policy wanted to provide for the public credit, 
and this was a good opportunity to do something. 

Massachusetts then owned the territory of Maine, which she was 
crowding on the market. She was opposed to opening the northwestern 
region. This fired the zeal of Virginia. The South caught the inspira- 
tion, and all exalted Dr. Cutler. The English minister invited him to 
dine with some of the Southern gentlemen. He was the center of interest. 

The entire South rallied round him. Massachusetts could not vote 
against him, because many of the constituents of her members were 
interested personally in the western speculation. Thus Cutler, making 
friends with the South, and, doubtless, using all the arts of the lobby, 
was enabled to command the situation. True to deeper convictions, he 
dictated one of the most compact and finished documents of wise states- 
manship that has ever adorned any human law book. He borrowed from 
Jefferson the term " Articles of Compact," which, preceding the federal 
constitution, rose into the most sacred character. He then followed very 
closely the constitution of Massachusetts, adopted three years before. 
Its most marked points were : 

1. The exclusion of slavery from the territory forever. 

2. Provision for public schools, giving one township for a seminary, 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 97 

and every section numbered 16 in each township ; that is, one-thirty-sixth 
of all the land, for public schools. 

3. A provision prohibiting the adoption of any constitution or the 
enactment of any law that should nullify pre-existing contracts. 

Be it forever remembered that this compact declared that " Religion, 
morality, and knowledge being necessary to good government and the 
happiness of mankind, schools and the means of education shall always 
be encouraged." 

Dr. Cutler planted himself on this platform and would not yield. 
Giving his unqualified declaration that it was that or nothing — that unless 
they could make the land desirable they did not want it — he took his 
horse and buggy, and started for the constitutional convention in Phila- 
delphia. On July 13, 1787, the bill was put upon its passage, and was 
unanimously adopted, every Southern member voting for it, and only one 
man, Mr. Yates, of New York, voting against it. But as the States voted 
as States, Yates lost his vote, and the compact was put beyond repeal. 

Thus the great States of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan and Wis- 
consin — a vast empire, the heart of the great valley — were consecrated 
to freedom, intelligence, and honesty. Thus the great heart of the nation 
was prepared for a year and a day and an hour. In the light of these eighty- 
nine years I affirm that this act was the salvation of the republic and the 
destruction of slavery. Soon the South saw their great blunder, and 
tried to repeal the compact. In 1803 Congress referred it to a committee 
of which John Randolph was chairman. He reported that this ordinance 
was a compact, and opposed repeal. Thus it stood a rock, in the way 
of the on-rushing sea of slavery. 

With all this timely aid it was, after all, a most desperate and pro- 
tracted struggle to keep the soil of Illinois sacred to freedom. It was 
the natural battle-field for the irrepressible conflict. In the southern end 
of the State slavery preceded the compact. It existed among the old 
French settlers, and was hard to eradicate. The southern part of the 
State was settled from the slave States, and this population brought their 
laws, customs, and institutions with them. A stream of population from 
the North poured into the northern part of the State. These sections 
misunderstood and hated each other perfectly. The Southerners regarded 
the Yankees as a skinning, tricky, penurious race of peddlers, filling the 
country with tinware, brass clocks, and wooden nutmegs. The North- 
erner thought of the Southerner as a lean, lank, lazy creature, burrowing 
in a hut, and rioting in whisky, dirt and ignorance. These causes aided 
in making the struggle long and bitter. So strong was the sympathy 
with slavery that, in spite of the ordinance of 1787, and in spite of the 
deed of cession, it was determined to allow the old French settlers to 
retain their slaves. Planters from the slave States might bring their 



98 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 

slaves, if they would give them a chance to choose freedom or years 
of service and bondage for their children till they should become 
thirty years of age. If they chose freedom they must leave the State 
in sixty days or be sold as fugitives. Servants were whipped for offenses 
for which white men are fined. Each lash paid forty cents of the fine. A 
negro ten miles from home without a pass was whipped. These famous 
laws were imported from the slave States just as they imported laws foi 
the inspection of flax and wool when there was neither in the State. 

These Black Laws are now wiped out. A vigorous effort was made 
to protect slavery in the State Constitution of 1817. It barely failed. 
It was renewed in 1825, when a convention was asked to make a new 
constitution. After a hard fight the convention was defeated. But 
slaves did not disappear from the census of the State until 1850. There 
were mobs and murders in the interest of slavery. Lovejoy was added 
to the list of martyrs — a sort of first-fruits of that long life of immortal 
heroes who saw freedom as the one supreme desire of their souls, and 
were so enamored of her that they preferred to die rather than survive her. 

The population of 12,282 that occupied the territory in A.D. 1800, 
increased to 45,000 in A.D. 1818, when the State Constitution was 
adopted, and Illinois took her place in the Union, with a star on the flag 
and two votes in the Senate. 

Shadrach Bond was the first Governor, and in his first message he 
recommended the construction of the Illinois and Michigan Canal. 

The simple economy in those days is seen in the fact that the entire 
bill for stationery for the first Legislature was only $13.50. Yet this 
simple body actually enacted a very superior code. 

There was no money in the territory before the war of 1812. Deer 
skins and coon skins were the circulating medium. In 1821, the Legis- 
lature ordained a State Bank on the credit of the State. It issued notes 
in the likeness of bank bills. These notes were made a legal tender for 
every thing, and the bank was ordered to loan to the people $100 on per- 
sonal security, and more on mortgages. They actually passed a resolu- 
tion requesting the Secretary of the Treasury of the United States to 
receive these notes for land. The old French Lieutenant Governor, Col. 
Menard, put the resolution as follows: " Gentlemen of the Senate : It is 
moved and seconded dat de notes of dis bank be made land-office money. 
All in favor of dat motion say aye ; all against it say no. It is decided 
in de affirmative. Now, gentlemen, I bet you one hundred dollar he 
never be land-office money ! " Hard sense, like hard money, is always 
above par. 

This old Frenchman presents a fine figure up against the dark back- 
ground of most of his nation. They made no progress. They clung to 
their earliest and simplest implements. They never wore hats or cap* 1 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 99 

They pulled their blankets over their heads in the winter like the Indians, 
with whom they freely intermingled. 

Demagogism had an early development. One John Grammar (only 
in name), elected to the Territorial and State Legislatures of 1816 and 
1836, invented the policy of opposing every new thing, saying, " If it 
succeeds, no one will ask who voted against it. If it proves a failure, he 
could quote its record." In sharp contrast with Grammar was the char- 
acter of D. P. Cook, after whom the county containing Chicago was 
named. Such was his transparent integrity and remarkable ability that 
his will was almost the law of the State. In Congress, a young man, 
and from a poor State, he was made Chairman of the Ways and Means 
Committee. He was pre-eminent for standing by Ms committee, regard- 
less of consequences. It was his integrity that elected John Quincy 
Adams to the Presidency. There were four candidates in 1824, Jackson, 
Clay, Crawford, and John Quincy Adams. There being no choice by the 
people, the election was thrown into the House. It was so balanced that 
it turned on his vote, and that he cast for Adams, electing him ; then 
went home to face the wrath of the Jackson party in Illinois. It cost 
him all but character and greatness. It is a suggestive comment on the 
times, that there was no legal interest till 1830. It often reached 150 
per cent., usually 50 per cent. Then it was reduced to 12, and now to 
10 per cent. 

PHYSICAL FEATURES OF THE PRAIRIE STATE. 

In area the State has 55,410 square miles of territory. It is about 
150 miles wide and 400 miles long, stretching in latitude from Maine to 
North Carolina. It embraces wide variety of climate. It is tempered 
on the north by the great inland, saltless, tideless sea, which keeps the 
thermometer from either extreme. Being a table land, from 600 to 1,600 
feet above the level of the sea, one is prepared to find on the health 
maps, prepared by the general government, an almost clean and perfect 
record. In freedom from fever and malarial diseases and consumptions, 
the three deadly enemies of the American Saxon, Illinois, as a State, 
stands without a superior. She furnishes one of the essential conditions 
of a great people — sound bodies. I suspect that this fact lies back of 
that old Delaware word, Illini, superior men. 

The great battles of history that have been determinative of dynas- 
ties and destinies have been strategical battles, chiefly the question of 
position. Thermopylae has been the war-cry of freemen for twenty-four 
centuries. It only tells how much there may be in position. All this 
advantage belongs to Illinois. It is in the heart of the greatest valley in 
the world, the vast region between the mountains — a valley that could 



100 HISTOEY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 

feed mankind for one thousand years. It is well on toward the center of 
the continent. It is in the great temperate belt, in which have been 
found nearly all the aggressive civilizations of history. It has sixty-five 
miles of frontage on the head of the lake. With the Mississippi forming 
the western and southern boundary, with the Ohio running along the 
southeastern line, with the Illinois River and Canal dividing the State 
diagonally from the lake to the Lower Mississippi, and with the Rock and 
Wabash Rivers furnishing altogether 2,000 miles of water-front, con- 
necting with, and running through, in all about 12,000 miles of navi- 
gable water. 

But this is not all. These waters are made most available by the 
fact that the lake and the State lie on the ridge running into the great 
valley from the east. Within cannon-shot of the lake the water runs 
away from the lake to the Gulf. The lake now empties at both ends, 
one into the Atlantic and one into the Gulf of Mexico. The lake thus 
seems to hang over the land. This makes the dockage most serviceable ; 
there are no steep banks to damage it. Both lake and river are made 
for use. 

The climate varies from Portland to Richmond ; it favors every pro- 
duct of the continent, including the tropics, with less than half a dozen 
exceptions. It produces every great nutriment of the world except ban- 
anas and rice. It is hardly too much to say that it is the most productive 
spot known to civilization. With the soil full of bread and the earth full 
of minerals ; with an upper surface of food and an under layer of fuel ; 
with perfect natural drainage, and abundant springs and streams and 
navigable rivers ; half way between the forests of the North and the fruits 
of the South ; within a day's ride of the great deposits of iron, coal, cop- 
per, lead, and zinc ; containing and controlling the great grain, cattle, 
pork, and lumber markets of the world, it is not strange that Illinois has 
the advantage of position. 

This advantage has been supplemented by the character of the popu- 
lation. In the early days when Illinois was first admitted to the Union, 
her population were chiefly from Kentucky and Virginia. But, in the 
conflict of ideas concerning slavery, a strong tide of emigration came in 
from the East, and soon changed this composition. In 1870 her non- 
native population were from colder soils. New York furnished 133,290 ; 
Ohio gave 162,623; Pennsylvania sent on 98,352; the entire South gave 
us only 206,734. In all her cities, and in all her German and Scandina- 
vian and other foreign colognes, Illinois has only about one-fifth of her 
people of foreign birth. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 1Q] 



PROGRESS OF DEVELOPMENT. 

One of the greatest elements in the early development of Illinois is 
the Illinois and Michigan Canal, connecting the Illinois and Mississippi 
Rivers with the lakes. It was of the utmost importance to the State. 
It was recommended by Gov. Bond, the first governor, in his first message. 
In 1821, the Legislature appropriated $10,000 for surveying the route. 
Two bright young engineers surveyed it, and estimated the cost at 
$600,000 or $700,000. It finally cost $8,000,000. In 1825, a law was 
passed to incorporate the Canal Company, but no stock was sold. In 
1826, upon the solicitation of Cook, Congress gave 800,000 acres of land 
on the line of the work. In 1828, another law — commissioners appointed, 
and work commenced with new survey and new estimates. In 1834-35, 
George Farquhar made an able report on the whole matter. This was, 
doubtless, the ablest report ever made to a western legislature, and it 
became the model for subsequent reports and action. From this the 
work went on till it was finished in 1848. It cost the State a large 
amount of money ; but it gave to the industries of the State an impetus 
that pushed it up into the first rank of greatness. It was not built as a 
speculation any more than a doctor is employed on a speculation. But 
it has paid into the Treasary of the State an average annual net sum of 
over $111,000. 

Pending the construction of the canal, the land and town-lot fever 
broke out in the State, in 1834-35. It took on the malignant type in 
Chicago, lifting the town up into a city. The disease spread over the 
entire State and adjoining States. It was epidemic. It cut up men's 
farms without regard to locality, and cut up the purses of the purchasers 
without regard to consequences. It is estimated that building lots enough 
were sold in Indiana alone to accommodate every citizen then in the 
United States. 

Towns and cities were exported to the Eastern market by the ship- 
load. There was no lack of buyers. Every up-ship came freighted with 
speculators and their money. 

This distemper seized upon the Legislature in 1836-37, and left not 
one to tell the tale. They enacted a system of internal improvement 
without a parallel in the grandeur of its conception. They ordered the 
construction of 1,300 miles of railroad, crossing the State in all direc- 
tions. This was surpassed by the river and canal improvements. 
There were a few counties not touched by either railroad or river or 
canal, and those were to be comforted and compensated by the free dis- 
tribution of $200,000 among them. To inflate this balloon beyond cre- 
dence it was ordered that work should be commenced on both ends of 



102 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 

each of these railroads and rivers, and at each river-crossing, all at the 
same time. The appropriations for these vast improvements were over 
812,000,000, and commissioners were appointed to borrow the money on 
the credit of the State. Remember that all this was in the early days of 
railroading, when railroads were luxuries ; that the State had whole 
counties with scarcely a cabin ; and that the population of the State was 
less than 400,000, and you can form some idea of the vigor with which 
these brave men undertook the work of making a great State. In the 
light of history I am compelled to say that this was only a premature 
throb of the power that actually slumbered in the soil of the State. It 
was Hercules in the cradle. 

At this juncture the State Bank loaned its funds largely to Godfrey 
Gilman & Co., and to other leading houses, for the purpose of drawing 
trade from St. Louis to Alton. Soon they failed, and took down the 
bank with them. 

In 1840, all hope seemed gone. A population of 480,000 were loaded 
with a debt of $14,000,000. It had only six small cities, really only 
towns, namely : Chicago, Alton, Springfield, Quincy, Galena, Nauvoo. 
This debt was to be cared for when there was not a dollar in the treas- 
ury, and when the State had borrowed itself out of all credit, and when 
there was not good money enough in the hands of all the people to pay 
the interest of the debt for a single year. Yet, in the presence of all 
these difficulties, the young State steadily refused to repudiate. Gov. 
Ford took hold of the problem and solved it, bringing the State through 
in triumph. 

Having touched lightly upon some of the more distinctive points in 
the history of the development of Illinois, let us next briefly consider the 

MATERIAL RESOURCES OF THE STATE. 

It is a garden four hundred miles long and one hundred and fifty 
miles wide. Its soil is chiefly a black sandy loam, from six inches to 
sixty feet thick. On the American bottoms it has been cultivated for 
one hundred and fifty years without renewal. About the old French 
towns it has yielded corn for a century and a half without rest or help. 
It produces nearly everything green in the temperate and tropical zones. 
She leads all other States in the number of acres actually under plow. 
Her products from 25,000,000 of acres are incalculable. Her mineral 
wealth is scarcely second to her agricultural power. She has coal, iron, 
lead, copper, zinc, many varieties of building stone, fire clay, cuma clay, 
common brick clay, sand of all kinds, gravel, mineral paint — every thing 
needed for a high civilization. Left to herself, she has the elements of 
all greatness. The single item of coal is too vast for an appreciative 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 103 

handling in figures. We can handle it in general terms like algebraical 
signs, but long before we get up into the millions and billions the human 
mind drops down from comprehension to mere symbolic apprehension. 

When I tell you that nearly four-fifths of the entire State is under- 
laid with a deposit of coal more than forty feet thick on the average (now 
estimated, by recent surveys, at seventy feet thick), you can get some 
idea of its amount, as you do of the amount of the national debt. There 
it is ! 41,000 square miles — one vast mine into which you could put 
any of the States ; in which you could bury scores of European and 
ancient empires, and have room enough all round to work without know- 
ing that they had been sepulchered there. 

Put this vast coal-bed down by the other great coal deposits of the 
world, and its importance becomes manifest. Great Britain has 12,000 
square miles of coal; Spain, 3,000; France, 1,719; Belgium, 578; Illinois 
about twice as many square miles as all combined. Virginia has 20,000 
square miles ; Pennsylvania, 16,000 ; Ohio, 12,000. Illinois has 41,000 
square miles. One-seventh of all the known coal on this continent is in 
Illinois. 

Could we sell the coal in this single State for one-seventh of one cent 
a ton it would pay the national debt. Converted into power, even with 
the wastage in our common engines, it would do more work than could 
be done by the entire race, beginning at Adam's wedding and working 
ten hours a day through all the centuries till the present time, and right 
on into the future at the same rate for the next 600,000 years. 

Great Britain uses enough mechanical power to-day to give to each 
man, woman, and child in the kingdom the help and service of nineteen 
untiring servants. No wonder she has leisure and luxuries. No wonder 
the home of the common artisan has in it more luxuries than could be 
found in the palace of good old King Arthur. Think, if you can conceive 
of it, of the vast army of servants that slumber in the soil of Illinois, 
impatiently awaiting the call of Genius to come forth to minister to our 
comfort. 

At. the present rate of consumption England's coal supply will be 
exhausted in 250 years. When this is gone she must transfer her dominion 
either to the Indies, or to British America, which I would not resist ; or 
to some other people, which I would regret as a loss to civilization. 

COAL IS KING. 

At the same rate of consumption (which far exceeds our own) the 
deposit of coal in Illinois will last 120,000 years. And her kingdom shall 
be an everlasting kingdom. 

Let us turn now from this reserve power to the annual products of 



104 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 

the State. We shall not be humiliated in this field. Here we strike the 
secret of our national credit. Nature provides a market in the constant 
appetite of the race. Men must eat, and if we can furnish the provisions 
we can command the treasure. All that a man hath will he give for his 

life. 

According to the last census Illinois produced 30,000,000 of bushels 
of wheat. That is more wheat than was raised by any other State in the 
Union. She raised In 1875, 130,000,000 of bushels of corn — twice as 
much as any other State, and one-sixth of all the corn raised in the United 
States. She harvested 2,747,000 tons of hay, nearly one-tenth of all the 
hay in the Republic. It is not generally appreciated, but it is true, that 
the hay crop of the country is worth more than the cotton crop. The 
hay of Illinois equals the cotton of Louisiana. Go to Charleston, S. C, 
and see them peddling handfuls of hay or grass, almost as a curiosity, 
as we regard Chinese gods or the cryolite of Greenland; drink your 
coffee and condensed milk ; and walk back from the coast for many a 
league through the sand and burs till you get up into the better atmos- 
phere of the mountains, without seeing a waving meadow or a grazing 
herd ; then you will begin to appreciate the meadows of the Prairie State, 
where the grass often grows sixteen feet high. 

The value of her farm implements is $211,000,000, and the value of 
her live stock is only second to the great State of New York. in' 1875 
she had 25,000,000 hogs, and packed 2,113,815, about one-half of all that 
were packed in the United States. This is no insignificant item. Pork 
is a growing demand of the old world. Since the laborers of Europe 
have gotten a taste of our bacon, and we have learned how to pack it dry 
in boxes, like dry goods, the world has become the market. 

The hog is on the march into the future. His nose is ordained to 
uncover the secrets of dominion, and his feet shall be guided by the star 
of empire. 

Illinois marketed $57,000,000 worth of slaughtered animals — more 
than any other State, and a seventh of all the States. 

Be patient with me, and pardon my pride, and I will give you a list 
of some of the things in which Illinois excels all other States. 

Depth and richness of soil ; per cent, of good ground ; acres of 
improved land ; large farms — some farms contain from 40,000 to 60,000 
acres of cultivated land, 40,000 acres of corn on a single farm ; number of 
farmers ; amount of wheat, corn, oats and honey produced ; value of ani- 
mals for slaughter ; number of hogs ; amount of pork ; number of horses 
— three times as many as Kentucky, the horse State. 

Illinois excels all other States in miles of railroads and in miles of 
postal service, and in money orders sold per annum, and in the amount of 
lumber sold in her markets. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 105 

Illinois is only second in many important matters. This sample list 
comprises a few of the more important : Permanent school fund (good 
for a young state) ; total income for educational purposes ; number of pub- 
lishers of books, maps, papers, etc.; value of farm products and imple- 
ments, and of live stock ; in tons of coal mined. 

The shipping of Illinois is only second to New York. Out of one 
port during the business hours of the season of navigation she sends forth 
a vessel every ten minutes. This does not include canal boats, which go 
one every five minutes. No wonder she is only second in number of 
bankers and brokers or in physicians and surgeons. 

She is third in colleges, teachers and schools ; cattle, lead, hay, 
flax, sorghum and beeswax. 

She is fourth in population, in children enrolled in public schools, in 
law schools, in butter, potatoes and carriages. 

She is fifth in value of real and personal property, in theological 
seminaries and colleges exclusively for women, in milk sold, and in boots 
and shoes manufactured, and in book-binding. 

She is only seventh in the production of wood, while she is the 
twelfth in area. Surely that is well done for the Prairie State. She now 
has much more wood and growing timber than she had thirty years ago. 

A few leading industries will justify emphasis. She manufactures 
$205,000,000 worth of goods, which places her well up toward New York 
and Pennsylvania. The number of her manufacturing establishments 
increased from 1860 to 1870, 300 per cent.; capital employed increased 350 
per cent,, and the amount of product increased 400 per cent. She issued 
5,500,000 copies of commercial and financial newspapers — only second to 
New York. She has 6,759 miles of railroad, thus leading all other States, 
worth $636,458,000, using 3,245 engines, and 67,712 cars, making a train 
long enough to cover one-tenth of the entire roads of the State. Her 
stations are only five miles apart. She carried last year 15,795,000 passen- 
gers, an average of 36i miles, or equal to taking her entire population twice 
across the State. More than two-thirds of her land is within five miles of 
a railroad, and less than two per cent, is more than fifteen miles away. 

The State has a large financial interest in the Illinois Central railroad. 
The road was incorporated in 1850, and the State gave each alternate sec- 
tion for six miles on each side, and doubled the price of the remaining 
land, so keeping herself good. The road received 2,595,000 acres of land, 
and pays to the State one-seventh of the gross receipts. The State 
receives this year $350,000, and has received in all about $7,000,000. It 
is practically the people's road, and it has a most able and gentlemanly 
management. Add to this the annual receipts from the canal, $111,000, 
and a large per cent, of the State tax is provided for. 



106 HISTORY OF THE STATE OP ILLINOIS. 



THE RELIGION AND MORALS 

of the State keep step with her productions and growth. She was born 
of the missionary spirit. It was a minister who secured for her the ordi- 
nance of 1787, by which she has been saved from slavery, ignorance, and 
dishonesty. Rev. Mr. Wiley, pastor of a Scotch congregation in Randolph 
County, petitioned the Constitutional Convention of 1818 to recognize 
Jesus Christ as king, and the Scriptures as the only necessary guide and 
book of law. The convention did not act in the case, and the old Cove- 
nanters refused to accept citizenship. They never voted until 1824, when 
the slavery question was submitted to the people; then they all voted 
against it and cast the determining votes. Conscience has predominated 
whenever a great moral question has been submitted to the people. 

But little mob violence has ever been felt in the State. In 1817 
regulators disposed of a band of horse-thieves that infested the territory. 
The Mormon indignities finally awoke the same spirit. Alton was also 
the scene of a pro-slavery mob, in which Lovejoy was added to the list of 
martyrs. The moral sense of the people makes the law supreme, and gives 
to the State unruffled peace. 

With $22,300,000 in church property, and 4,298 church organizations, 
the State has that divine police, the sleepless patrol of moral ideas, that 
alone is able to secure perfect safety. Conscience takes the knife from 
the assassin's hand and the bludgeon from the grasp of the highwayman. 
We sleep in safety, not because we are behind bolts and bars — these only 
fence against the innocent ; not because a lone officer drowses on a distant 
corner of a street ; not because a sheriff may call his posse from a remote 
part of the county ; but because conscience guards the very portals of the 
air and stirs in the deepest recesses of the public mind. This spirit issues 
within the State 9,500,000 copies of religious papers annually, and receives 
still more from without. Thus the crime of the State is only one-fourth 
that of New York and one-half that of Pennsylvania. 

Illinois never had but one duel between her own citizens. In Belle- 
ville, in 1820, Alphonso Stewart and William Bennett arranged to vindi- 
cate injured honor. The seconds agreed to make it a sham, and make 
them shoot blanks. Stewart was in the secret. Bennett mistrusted some- 
thing, and, unobserved, slipped a bullet into his gun and killed Stewart. 
He then fled the State. After two years he was caught, tried, convicted, 
and, in spite of friends and political aid, was hung. This fixed the code 
of honor on a Christian basis, and terminated its use in Illinois. 

The early preachers were ignorant men, who were accounted eloquent 
according to the strength of their voices. But they set the style for all 
public speakers. Lawyers and political speakers followed this rule. Gov. 



HISTORY OP THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 107 

Ford says: "Nevertheless, these first preachers were of incalculable 
benefit to the country. They inculcated justice and morality. To them 
are we indebted for the first Christian character of the Protestant portion 
of the people." 

In education Illinois surpasses her material resources. The ordinance 
of 1787 consecrated one thirty-sixth of her soil to common schools, and 
the law of 1818, the first law that went upon her statutes, gave three per 
cent, of all the rest to 

EDUCATION. 

The old compact secures this interest forever, and by its yoking 
morality and intelligence it precludes the legal interference with the Bible 
in the public schools. With such a start it is natural that we should have 
11,050 schools, and that our illiteracy should be less than New York or 
Pennsylvania, and only about one-half of Massachusetts. We are not to 
blame for not having more than one-half as many idiots as the great 
States. These public schools soon made colleges inevitable. The first 
college, still flourishing, was started in Lebanon in 1828, by the M. E. 
church, and named after Bishop McKendree. Illinois College, at Jackson- 
ville, supported by the Presbyterians, followed in 1830. In 1832 the Bap- 
tists built Shurtleff College, at Alton. Then the Presbyterians built Knox 
College, at Galesburg, in 1838, and the Episcopalians built Jubilee College, 
at Peoria, in 1847. After these early years colleges have rained down. 
A settler could hardly encamp on the prairie but a college would spring 
up by his wagon. The State now has one very well endowed and equipped 
university, namely, the Northwestern University, at Evanston, with six 
colleges, ninety instructors, over 1,000 students, and $1,500,000 endow- 
ment. 

Rev. J. M. Peck was the first educated Protestant minister m tne 
State. He settled at Rock Spring, in St. Clair County, 1820, and left his 
impress on the State. Before 1837 only party papers were published, but 
Mr. Peck published a Gazetteer of Illinois. Soon after John Russell, of 
Bluffdale, published essays and tales showing genius. Judge James Hall 
published The Illinois Monthly Magazine with great ability, and an annual 
called The Western Souvenir, which gave him an enviable fame all over the 
United States. From these beginnings Illinois has gone on till she has 
more volumes in public libaaries even than Massachusetts, and of the 
44,500,000 volumes in all the public libraries of the United States, she 
has one-thirteenth. In newspapers she stands fourth. Her increase is 
marvelous. In 1850 she issued 5,000,000 copies; in 1860, 27,590,000 ; in 
1870, 113,140,000. In 1860 she had eighteen colleges and seminaries ; in 
1870 she had eighty. That is a grand advance for the war decade. 

This brings us to a record unsurpassed in the history of any age, 



108 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 



THE WAR RECORD OF ILLINOIS. 

I hardly know where to begin, or how to advance, or what to say. I 
can at best give you only a broken synopsis of her deeds, and you must 
put them in the order of glory for yourself. Her sons have always been 
foremost on fields of danger. In 1832-33, at the call of Gov. Reynolds, 
her sons drove Blackhawk over the Mississippi. 

When the Mexican war came, in May, 1846, 8,370 men offered them- 
selves when only 3,720 could be accepted. The fields of Buena Vista and 
Vera Cruz, and the storming of Cerro Gordo, will carry the glory of Illinois 
soldiers along after the infamy of the cause they served has been forgotten. 
But it was reserved till our day for her sons to find a field and cause and 
foemen that could fitly illustrate their spirit and heroism. Illinois put 
into her own regiments for the United States government 256,000 men, 
and into the army through other States enough to swell the number to 
290,000. This far exceeds all the soldiers of' the federal government in 
all the war of the revolution. Her total years of service were over 600,000. 
She enrolled men from eighteen to forty -five }^ears of age when the law 
of Congress in 1864 — the test time — only asked for those from twenty to 
forty-five. Her enrollment was otherwise excessive. Her people wanted 
to go, and did not take the pains to correct the enrollment. Thus the 
basis of fixing the quota was too great, and then the quota itself, at least 
in the trying time, was far above any other State. 

Thus the demand on some counties, as Monroe, for example, took every 
able-bodied man in the county, and then did not have enough to fill the 
quota. Moreover, Illinois sent 20,844 men for ninety or one hundred days, 
for whom no credit was asked. When Mr. Lincoln's attention was called 
to the inequality of the quota compared with other States, he replied, 
" The country needs the sacrifice. We must put the whip on the free 
horse." In spite of all these disadvantages Illinois gave to the country 
73,000 years of service above all calls. With one-thirteenth of the popu- 
lation of the loyal States, she sent regularly one-tenth of all the soldiers, 
and in the peril of the closing calls, when patriots were few and weary, 
she then sent one-eighth of all that were called for by her loved and hon- 
ored son in the white house. Her mothers and daughters went into the 
fields to raise the grain and keep the children together, while the fathers 
and older sons went to the harvest fields of the world. I knew a father 
and four sons who agreed that one of them must stay at home ; and they 
pulled straws from a stack to see who might go. The father was left. 
The next day he came into the camp, saying : " Mother says she can get 
the crops in, and I am going, too." I know large Methodist churches 
from which every male member went to the army. Do you want to know 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 109 

what these heroes from Illinois did in the field ? Ask any soldier with a 
good record of his own, who is thus able to judge, and he will tell you 
that the Illinois men went in to win. It is common history that the greater 
victories were won in the West. When everything else looked dark Illi- 
nois was gaining victories all down the river, and dividing the confederacy. 
Sherman took with him on his great march forty-five regiments of Illinois 
infantry, three companies of artillery, and one company of cavalry. He 
could not avoid 

GOING TO THE SEA. 

If he had been killed, I doubt not the men would have gone right on. 
Lincoln answered all rumors of Sherman's defeat with, " It is impossible ; 
there is a mighty sight of fight in 100,000 Western men." Illinois soldiers 
brought home 300 battle-flags. The first United States flag that floated 
over Richmond was an Illinois flag. She sent messengers and nurses to 
every field and hospital, to care for her sick and wounded sons. She said, 
" These suffering ones are my sons, and I will care for them." 

When individuals had given all, then cities and towns came forward 
with their credit to the extent of many millions, to aid these men and 
their families. 

Illinois gave the country the great general of the war — Ulysses S. 
Grant — since honored with two terms of the Presidency of the United 
States. 

One other name from Illinois comes up in all minds, embalmed in all 
hearts, that must have the supreme place in this story of our glory and 
of our nation's honor ; that name is Abraham Lincoln, of Illinois. 

The analysis of Mr. Lincoln's character is difficult on account of its 
symmetry. 

In this age we look with admiration at his uncompromising honesty. 
And well we may, for this saved us. Thousands throughout the length 
and breadth of our country who knew him only as " Honest Old Abe," 
voted for him on that account ; and wisely did they choose, for no other 
man could have carried us through the fearful night of the war. When 
his plans were too vast for our comprehension, and his faith in the cause 
too sublime for our participation ; when it was all night about us, and all 
dread before us, and all sad and desolate behind us ; when not one ray 
shone upon our cause ; when traitors were haughty and exultant at the 
South, and fierce and blasphemous at the North ; when the loyal men here 
seemed almost in the minority ; when the stoutest heart quailed, the bravest 
cheek paled ; when generals were defeating each other for place, and 
contractors were leeching out the very heart's blood of the prostrate 
republic : when every thing else had failed us, we looked at this calm, 
patient man standing like a rock in the storm, and said : " Mr. Lincoln 



110 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 

is honest, and we can trust him still." Holding to this single point with 
the energy of faith and despair we held together, and, under God, he 
brought us through to victory. 

His practical wisdom made him the wonder of all lands. With such 
certainty did Mr. Lincoln follow causes to their ultimate effects, that his 
foresight of contingencies seemed almost prophetic. 

He is radiant with all the great virtues, and his memory shall shed a 
glory upon this age that shall fill the eyes of men as they look into his- 
tory. Other men have excelled him in some point, but, taken at all 
points, all in all, he stands head and shoulders above every other man of 
6,000 years. An administrator, he saved the nation in the perils of 
unparalleled civil war. A statesman, he justified his measures by their 
success. A philanthropist, he gave liberty to one race and salvation to 
another. A moralist, he bowed from the summit of human power to the 
foot of the Cross, and became a Christian. A mediator, he exercised mercy 
under the most absolute abeyance to law. A leader, he was no partisan. 
A commander, he was untainted with blood. A ruler in desperate times, 
he was unsullied with crime. A man, he has left no word of passion, no 
thought of malice, no trick of craft, no act of jealousy, no purpose of 
selfish ambition. Thus perfected, without a model, and without a peer, 
he was dropped into these troubled years to adorn and embellish all that 
is good and all that is great in our humanity, and to present to all coming 
time the representative of the divine idea of free government. 

It is not too much to say that away down in the future, when the 
republic has fallen from its niche in the wall of time ; when the great 
war itself shall have faded out in the distance like a mist on the horizon : 
when the Anglo-Saxon language shall be spoken only by the tongue of 
the stranger ; then the generations looking this way shall see the great 
president as the supreme figure in this vortex of history 

CHICAGO. 

It is impossible in our brief space to give more than a meager sketch 
of such a city as Chicago, which is in itself the greatest marvel of the 
Prairie State. This mysterious, majestic, mighty city, born first of water, 
and next of fire ; sown in weakness, and raised in power ; planted among 
the willows of the marsh, and crowned with the glory of the mountains ; 
sleeping on the bosom of the prairie, and rocked on the bosom of the sea , 
the youngest city of the world, and still the eye of the prairie, as Damas- 
cus, the oldest city of the world, is the eye of the desert. With a com- 
merce far exceeding that of Corinth on her isthmus, in the highway to 
the East ; with the defenses of a continent piled around her by the thou- 
sand miles, making her far safer than Rome on the banks of the Tiber ; 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. Ill 

with schools eclipsing Alexandria and Athens ; with liberties more con- 
spicuous than those of the old republics ; with a heroism equal to the first 
Carthage, and with a sanctity scarcely second to that of Jerusalem — set 
your thoughts on all this, lifted into the eyes of all men by the miracle of 
its growth, illuminated by the flame of its fall, and transfigured by the 
divinity of its resurrection, and you will feel, as I do, the utter impossi- 
bility of compassing this subject as it deserves. Some impression of her 
importance is received from the shock her burning gave to the civilized 
world. 

When the doubt of her calamity was removed, and the horrid fact 
was accepted, there went a shudder over all cities, and a quiver over all 
lands. There was scarcely a town in the civilized world that did not 
shake on the brink of this opening chasm. The flames of our homes red- 
dened all skies. The city was set upon a hill, and could not be hid. AK 
eyes were turned upon it. To have struggled and suffered amid the 
scenes of its fall is as distinguishing as to have fought at Thermopylae, or 
Salamis, or Hastings, or Waterloo, or Bunker Hill. 

Its calamity amazed the world, because it was felt to be the common 
property of mankind. 

The early history of the city is full of interest, just as the early his- 
tory of such a man as Washington or Lincoln becomes public property, 
and is cherished by every patriot. 

Starting with 560 acres in 1833, it embraced and occupied 23,000 
acres in 1869, and, having now a population of more than 500,000, it com- 
mands general attention. 

The first settler — Jean Baptiste Pointe au Sable, a mulatto from the 
West Indies — came and began trade with the Indians in 1796. John 
Kinzie became his successor in 1804, in which year Fort Dearborn was 
erected. 

A mere trading-post was kept here from that time till about the time 
of the Blackhawk war, in 1832. It was not the city. It was merely a 
cock crowing at midnight. The morning was not yet. In 1833 the set- 
tlement about the fort was incorporated as a town. The voters were 
divided on the propriety of such corporation, twelve voting for it and one 
against it. Four years later it was incorporated as a city, and embraced 
560 acres. 

The produce handled in this city is an indication of its power. Grain 
and flour were imported from the East till as late as 1837. The first 
exportation by way of experiment was in 1839. Exports exceeded imports 
first in 1842. The Board of Trade was organized in 1848, but it was so 
weak that it needed nursing till 1855. Grain was purchased by the 
wagon-load in the street. 

I remember sitting with my father on a load of wheat, in the long 



112 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 

line of wagons along Lake street, while the buyers came and untied the 
bags, and examined the grain, and made their bids. That manner of 
business had to cease with the day of small things. Now our elevators 
will hold 15,000,000 bushels of grain. The cash value of the produce 
handled in a year is $215,000,000, and the produce weighs 7,000,000 
tons or 700,000 car loads. This handles thirteen and a half ton each 
minute, all the year round. One tenth of all the wheat in the United 
States is handled in Chicago. Even as long ago as 1853 the receipts of 
grain in Chicago exceeded those of the goodly city of St. Louis, and in 
1854 the exports of grain from Chicago exceeded those of New York and 
doubled those of St. Petersburg, Archangel, or Odessa, the largest grain 
markets in Europe. 

The manufacturing interests of the city are not contemptible. In 
1873 manufactories employed 45,000 operatives ; in 1876, 60,000. The 
manufactured product in 1875 was worth $177,000,000. 

No estimate of the size and power of Chicago would be adequate 
that did not put large emphasis on the railroads. Before they came 
thundering along our streets canals were the hope of our country. But 
who ever thinks now of traveling by canal packets ? In June, 1852, 
there were only forty miles of railroad connected with the city. The 
old Galena division of the Northwestern ran out to Elgin. But now, 
who can count the trains and measure the roads that seek a terminus or 
connection in this city ? The lake stretches away to the north, gathering 
in to this center all the harvests that might otherwise pass to the north 
of us. If you will take a map and look at the adjustment of railroads, 
you will see, first, that Chicago is the great railroad center of the world, 
as New York is the commercial city of this continent ; and, second, that 
the railroad lines form the iron spokes of a great wheel whose hub is 
this city. The lake furnishes the only break in the spokes, and this 
seems simply to have pushed a few spokes together on each shore. See 
the eighteen trunk lines, exclusive of eastern connections. 

Pass round the circle, and view their numbers and extent. There 
is the great Northwestern, with all its branches, one branch creeping 
along the lake shore, and so reaching to the north, into the Lake Superior 
regions, away to the right, and on to the Northern Pacific on the left, 
swinging around Green Bay for iron and copper and silver, twelve months 
in the year, and reaching out for the wealth of the great agricultural 
belt and isothermal line traversed by the Northern Pacific. Another 
branch, not so far north, feeling for the heart of the Badger State. 
Another pushing lower down the Mississippi — all these make many con- 
nections, and tapping all the vast wheat regions of Minnesota, Wisconsin, 
Iowa, and all the regions this side of sunset. There is that elegant road, 
the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy, running out a goodly number of 



HISTOEY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 113 

branches, and reaping the great fields this side of the Missouri River. 
I can only mention the Chicago, Alton & St. Louis, our Illinois Central, 
described elsewhere, and the Chicago & Rock Island. Further around 
we come to the lines connecting us with all the eastern cities. The 
Chicago, Indianapolis & St. Louis, the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne & 
Chicago, the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern, and the Michigan Cen- 
tral and Great Western, give us many highways to the seaboard. Thus we 
reach the Mississippi at five points, from St. Paul to Cairo and the Gulf 
itself by two routes. We also reach Cincinnati and Baltimore, and Pitts- 
burgh and Philadelphia, and New York. North and south run the water 
courses of the lakes and the rivers, broken just enough at this point to 
make a pass. Through this, from east to west, run the long lines that 
stretch from ocean to ocean. 

This is the neck of the glass, and the golden sands of commerce 
must pass into our hands. Altogether we have more than 10,000 miles 
of railroad, directly tributary to this city, seeking to unload their wealth 
in our coffers. All these roads have come themselves by the infallible 
instinct of capital. Not a dollar was ever given by the city to secure 
one of them, and only a small per cent, of stock taken originally by her 
citizens, and that taken simply as an investment. Coming in the natural 
order of events, they will not be easily diverted. 

There is still another showing to all this. The connection between 
New York and San Francisco is by the middle route. This passes inevit- 
ably through Chicago. St. Louis wants the Southern Pacific or Kansas 
Pacific, and pushes it out through Denver, and so on up to Cheyenne. 
But before the road is fairly under way, the Chicago roads shove out to 
Kansas City, making even the Kansas Pacific a feeder, and actually leav- 
ing St. Louis out in the cold. It is not too much to expect that Dakota, 
Montana, and Washington Territory will find their great market in Chi- 
cago. 

But these are not all. Perhaps I had better notice here the ten or 
fifteen new roads that have just entered, or are just entering, our city. 
Their names are all that is necessary to give. Chicago & St. Paul, look- 
ing up the Red River country to the British possessions ; the Chicago, 
Atlantic & Pacific ; the Chicago, Decatur & State Line ; the Baltimore & 
Ohio ; the Chicago, Danville & Vincennes ; the Chicago & LaSalle Rail- 
road ; the Chicago, Pittsburgh & Cincinnati ; the Chicago and Canada 
Southern ; the Chicago and Illinois River Railroad. These, with their 
connections, and with the new connections of the old roads, already in 
process of erection, give to Chicago not less than 10,000 miles of new 
tributaries from the richest land on the continent. Thus there will be 
added to the reserve power, to the capital within reach of this city, not 
less than $1,000,000,000. 



114 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 

Add to all this transporting power the ships that sail one every nine 
minutes of the business hours of the season of navigation ; add, also, the 
canal boats that leave one every five minutes during the same time — and 
you will see something of the business of the city. 

THE COMMERCE OF THIS CITY 

has been leaping along to keep pace with the growth of the country 
around us. In 1852, our commerce reached the hopeful sum oi 
$20,000,000. In 1870 it reached $400,000,000. In 1871 it was pushed 
up above $450,000,000. And in 1875 it touched nearly double that. 

One-half of our imported goods come directly to Chicago. Grain 
enough is exported directly from our docks to the old world to employ a 
semi-weekly line of steamers of 3,000 tons capacity. This branch is 
not likely to be greatly developed. Even after the great Welland Canal 
is completed we shall have only fourteen feet of water. The great ocean 
vessels will continue to control the trade. 

The banking capital of Chicago is $24,431,000. Total exchange in 
1875, $659,000,000. Her wholesale business in 1875 was $294,000,000. 
The rate of taxes is less than in any other great city. 

The schools of Chicago are unsurpassed in America. Out of a popu- 
lation of 300,000 there were only 186 persons between the ages of six 
and twenty-one unable to read. This is the best known record. 

In 1831 the mail system was condensed into a half-breed, who went 
on foot to Niles, Mich., once in two weeks, and brought back what papers 
and news he could find. As late as 1846 there was often only one mail 
a week. A post-office was established in Chicago in 1833, and the post- 
master nailed up old boot-legs on one side of his shop to serve as boxes 
for the nabobs and literary men. 

It is an interesting fact in the growth of the young city that in the 
active life of the business men of that day the mail matter has grown to 
a daily average of over 6,500 pounds. It speaks equally well for the 
intelligence of the people and the commercial importance of the place, 
that the mail matter distributed to the territory immediately tributary to 
Chicago is seven times greater than that distributed to the territory 
immediately tributary to St. Louis. 

The improvements that have characterized the city are as startling 
as the city itself. In 1831, Mark Beaubien established a ferry over the 
river, and put himself under bonds to carry all the citizens free for the 
privilege of charging strangers. Now there are twenty-four large bridges 
and two tunnels. 

In 1833 the government expended $30,000 on the harbor. Then 
commenced that series of manoeuvers with the river that has made it one 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OP ILLINOIS. 115 

of the world's curiosities. It used to wind around in the lower end of 
the town, and make its way rippling over the sand into the lake at the 
foot of Madison street. They took it up and put it down where it now 
is. It was a narrow stream, so narrow that even moderately small crafts 
had to go up through the willows and cat's tails to the point near Lake 
street bridge, and back up one of the branches to get room enough in 
which to turn around. 

In 1844 the quagmires in the streets were first pontooned by plank 
roads, which acted in wet weather as public squirt-guns. Keeping you 
out of the mud, they compromised by squirting the mud over you. The 
wooden-block pavements came to Chicago in 1857. In 1840 water was 
delivered by peddlers in carts or by hand. Then a twenty-five horse- 
power engine pushed it through hollow or bored logs along the streets 
till 1854, when it was introduced into the houses by new works. The 
first fire-engine was used in 1835, and the first steam fire-engine in 1859. 
Gas was utilized for lighting the city in 1850. The Young Men's Chris- 
tian Association was organized in 1858, and horse railroads carried them 
to their work in 1859. The museum was opened in 1863. The alarm 
telegraph adopted in 1864. The opera-house built in 1865. The city 
grew from 560 acres in 1833 to 23,000 in 1869. In 1834, the taxes 
amounted to $48.90, and the trustees of the town borrowed $60 more for 
opening and improving streets. In 1835, the legislature authorized a loan 
of $2,000, and the treasurer and street commissioners resigned rather than 
plunge the town into such a gulf. 

Now the city embraces 36 square miles of territory, and has 30 miles 
of water front, besides the outside harbor of refuge, of 400 acres, inclosed 
by a crib sea-wall. One-third of the city has been raised up an average 
of eight feet, giving good pitch to the 263 miles of sewerage. The water 
of the city is above all competition. It is received through two tunnels 
extending to a crib in the lake two miles from shore. The closest analy- 
sis fails to detect any impurities, and, received 35 feet below the surface, 
it is always clear and cold. The first tunnel is five feet two inches in 
diameter and two miles long, and can deliver 50,000,000 of gallons per 
day. The second tunnel is seven feet in diameter and six miles long, 
running four miles under the city, and can deliver 100,000,000 of gal- 
lons per day. This water is distributed through 410 miles of water- 
mains. 

The three grand engineering exploits of the city are : First, lifting 
the city up on jack-screws, whole squares at a time, without interrupting 
the business, thus giving us good drainage ; second, running the tunnels 
under the lake, giving us the best water in the world ; and third, the 
turning the current of the river in its own channel, delivering us from the 
old abominations, and making decency possible. They redound about 



116 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 

equally to the credit of the engineering, to the energy of the people, and 
to the health of the city. 

That which really constitutes the city, its indescribable spirit, its soul, 
the way it lights up in every feature in the hour of action, has not been 
touched. In meeting strangers, one is often surprised how some homely 
women marry so well. Their forms are bad, their gait uneven and awk- 
ward, their complexion is dull, their features are misshapen and mismatch- 
ed, and when we see them there is no beauty that we should desire them. 
But when once they are aroused on some subject, they put on new pro- 
portions. They light up into great power. The real person comes out 
from its unseemly ambush, and captures us at will. They have power. 
They have ability to cause things to come to pass. We no longer wonder 
why they are in such high demand. So it is with our city. 

There is no grand scenery except the two seas, one of water, the 
other of prairie. Nevertheless, there is a spirit about it, a push, a breadth, 
a power, that soon makes it a place never to be forsaken. One soon 
ceases to believe in impossibilities. Balaams are the only prophets that are 
disappointed. The bottom that has been on the point of falling out has 
been there so long that it has grown fast. It can not fall out. It has all 
the capital of the world itching to get inside the corporation. 

The two great laws that govern the growth and size of cities are, 
first, the amount of territory for which they are the distributing and 
receiving points ; second, the numb'er of medium or moderate dealers that 
do this distributing. Monopolists build up themselves, not the cities. 
They neither eat, wear, nor live in proportion to their business. Both 
these laws help Chicago. 

The tide of trade is eastward — not up or down the map, but across 
the map. The lake runs up a wingdam for 500 miles to gather in the 
business. Commerce can not ferry up there for seven months in the year, 
and the facilities for seven months can do the work for twelve. Then the 
great region west of us is nearly all good, productive land. Dropping 
south into the trail of St. Louis, you fall into vast deserts and rocky dis- 
tricts, useful in holding the world together. St. Louis and Cincinnati, 
instead of rivaling and hurting Chicago, are her greatest sureties of 
dominion. They are far enough away to give sea-room, — farther off than 
Paris is from London, — and yet they are near enough to prevent the 
springing up of any other great city between them. 

St. Louis will be helped by the opening of the Mississippi, but also 
hurt. That will put New Orleans on her feet, and with a railroad running 
over into Texas and so West, she will tap the streams that now crawl up 
the Texas and Missouri road. The current is East, not North, and a sea- 
port at New Orleans can not permanently help St. Louis. 

Chicago is in the field almost alone, to handle the wealth of one- 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 117 

fourth of the territory of this great republic. This strip of seacoast 
divides its margins between Portland, Boston, New York, Philadelphia, 
Baltimore and Savannah, or some other great port to be created for the 
South in the next decade. But Chicago has a dozen empires casting their 
treasures into her lap. On a bed of coal that can run all the machinery 
of the world for 500 centuries ; in a garden that can feed the race by the 
thousand years; at the head of the lakes that give her a temperature as a 
summer resort equaled by no great city in the land ; with a climate that 
insures the health of her citizens ; surrounded by all the great deposits 
of natural wealth in mines aud forests and herds, Chicago is the wonder 
of to-day, and will be the city of the future. 

MASSACRE AT FORT DEARBORN. 

During the war of 1812, Fort Dearborn became the theater of stirring 
events. The garrison consisted of fifty-four men under command of 
Captain Nathan Heald, assisted by Lieutenant Helm (son-in-law of Mrs. 
Kinzie) and Ensign Ronan. Dr. Voorhees was surgeon. The only resi- 
dents at the post at that time were the wives of Captain Heald and Lieu- 
tenant Helm, and a few of the soldiers, Mr. Kinzie and his family, and 
a few Canadian voyageurs, with their wives and children. The soldiers 
and Mr. Kinzie were on most friendly terms with the Pottawattamies 
and Winnebagos, the principal tribes around them, but they could not 
win them from their attachment to the British. 

One evening in April, 1812, Mr. Kinzie sat playing on his violin and 
his children were dancing to the music, when Mrs. Kinzie came rushing 
into the house, pale with terror, and exclaiming : " The Indians ! the 
Indians!" "What? Where?" eagerly inquired Mr. Kinzie. "Up 
at Lee's, killing and scalping," answered the frightened mother, who, 
when the alarm was given, was attending Mrs. Barnes (just confined) 
living not far off. Mr. Kinzie and his family crossed the river and took 
refuge in the fort, to which place Mrs. Barnes and her infant not a day 
old were safely conveyed. The rest of the inhabitants took shelter in the 
fort. This alarm was caused by a scalping party of Winnebagos, who 
hovered about the fort several days, when they disappeared, and for several 
weeks the inhabitants were undisturbed. 

On the 7th of August, 1812, General Hull, at Detroit, sent orders to 
Captain Heald to evacuate Fort Dearborn, and to distribute all the United 
States property to the Indians in the neighborhood — a most insane order. 
The Pottawattamie chief, who brought the dispatch, had more wisdom 
than the commanding general. He advised Captain Heald not to make 
the distribution. Said he : " Leave the fort and stores as they are, and 
let the Indians make distribution for themselves ; and while they are 
engaged in the business, the white people may escape to Fort Wayne." 



118 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 

Captain Heald held a council with the Indians on the afternoon ot 
the 12th, in which his officers refused to join, for they had been informed 
that treachery was designed — that the Indians intended to murder the 
white people in the council, and then destroy those in the fort. Captain 
Heald, however, took the precaution to open a port-hole displaying a 
cannon pointing directly upon the council, and by that means saved 
his life. 

Mr. Kinzie, who knew the Indians well, begged Captain Heald not 
to confide in their promises, nor distribute the arms and munitions among 
them, for it would only put power into their hands to destroy the whites. 
Ac tine upon this advice, Heald resolved to withhold the munitions of 
war ; and on the night of the 13th, after the distribution of the other 
property had been made, the powder, ball and liquors were thrown into 
the river, the muskets broken up and destroyed. 

Black Partridge, a friendly chief, came to Captain Heald, and said : 
" Linden birds have been singing in my ears to-day: be careful on the 
march you are going to take." On that dark night vigilant Indians had 
crept near the fort and discovered the destruction of their promised booty 
going on within. The next morning the powder was seen floating on the 
surface of the river. The savages were exasperated and made loud com- 
plaints and threats. 

On the following day when preparations were making to leave the 
fort, and all the inmates were deeply impressed with a sense of impend- 
ing danger, Capt. Wells, an uncle of Mrs. Heald, was discovered upon 
the Indian trail among the sand-hills on the borders of the lake, not far 
distant, with a band of mounted Miamis, of whose tribe he was chief, 
having been adopted by the famous Miami warrior, Little Turtle. When 
news of Hull's surrender reached Fort Wayne, he had started with this 
force to assist Heald in defending Fort Dearborn. He was too late. 
Every means for its defense had been destroyed the night before, and 
arrangements were made for leaving the fort on the morning of the 15th. 

It was a warm bright morning in the middle of August. Indications 
were positive that the savages intended to murder the white people ; and 
when they moved out of the southern gate of the fort, the march was 
like a funeral procession. The band, feeling the solemnity of the occa- 
sion, struck up the Dead March in Saul. 

Capt. Wells, who had blackened his face with gun-powder in token 
of his fate, took the lead with his band of Miamis, followed by Capt. 
Heald, with his wife by his side on horseback. Mr. Kinzie hoped by his 
personal influence to avert the impending blow, and therefore accompanied 
them, leaving his family in a boat in charge of a friendly Indian, to be 
taken to his trading station at the site of Niles, Michigan, in the event ot 
his death. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 110 

The procession moved slowly along the lake shore till they reached 
the sand-hills between the prairie and the beach, when the Pottawattamie 
escort, under the leadership of Blackbird, filed to the right, placing those 
hills between them and the white people. Wells, with his Miamis, had 
kept in the advance. They suddenly came rushing back, Wells exclaim- 
ing, " They are about to attack us ; form instantly." These words were 
quickly followed by a storm of bullets, which came whistling over the 
little hills which the treacherous savages had made the covert for their 
murderous attack. The white troops charged upon the Indians, drove 
them back to the prairie, and then the battle was waged between fifty- 
four soldiers, twelve civilians and three or four women (the cowardly 
Miamis having fled at the outset) against five hundred Indian warriors. 
The white people, hopeless, resolved to sell their lives as dearly as possible. 
Ensign Ronan wielded his weapon vigorously, even after falling upon his 
knees weak from the loss of blood. Capt. Wells, who was by the side of 
his niece, Mrs. Heald, when the conflict began, behaved with the greatest 
coolness and courage. He said to her, " We have not the slightest chance 
for life. We must part to meet no more in this world. God bless you." 
And then he dashed forward. Seeing a young warrior, painted like a 
demon, climb into a wagon in which were twelve children, and tomahawk 
them all, he cried out, unmindful of his personal danger, " If that is your 
game, butchering women and children, I will kill too." He spurred his 
horse towards the Indian camp, where they had left their squaws and 
papooses, hotly pursued by swift-footed young warriors, who sent bullets 
whistling after him. One of these killed his horse and wounded him 
severely in the leg. With a yell the young braves rushed to make him 
their prisoner and reserve him for torture. He resolved not to be made 
a captive, and by the use of the most provoking epithets tried to induce 
them to kill him instantly. He called a fiery young chief a squaw, when 
the enraged warrior killed Wells instantly with his tomahawk, jumped 
upon his body, cut out his heart, and ate a portion of the warm morsel 
with savage delight ! 

In this fearful combat women bore a conspicuous part. Mrs. Heald 
was an excellent equestrian and an expert in the use of the rifle. She 
fought the savages bravely, receiving several severe wounds. Though 
faint from the loss of blood, she managed to keep her saddle. A savage 
raised his tomahawk to kill her, when she looked him full in the face, 
and with a sweet smile and in a gentle voice said, in his own language, 
" Surely you will not kill a squaw ! " The arm of the savage fell, and 
the life of the heroic woman was saved. 

Mrs. Helm, the step-daughter of Mr. Kinzie, had an encounter with 
a stout Indian, who attempted to tomahawk her. Springing to one side, 
she received the glancing blow on her shoulder, and at the same instant 



120 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 

seized the savage round the neck with her arms and endeavored to get 
hold of his scalping knife, which hung in a sheath at his breast. While 
she was thus struggling she was dragged from her antagonist by anothei 
powerful Indian, who bore her, in spite of her struggles, to the margin 
of the lake and plunged her in. To her astonishment she was held by 
him so that she would not drown, and she soon perceived that she was 
in the hands of the friendly Black Partridge, who had saved her life. 

The wife of Sergeant Holt, a large and powerful woman, behaved as 
bravely as an Amazon. She rode a fine, high-spirited horse, which the 
Indians coveted, and several of them attacked her with the butts of their 
guns, for the purpose of dismounting her ; but she used the sword which 
she had snatched from her disabled husband so skillfully that she foiled 
them ; and, suddenly wheeling her horse, she dashed over the prairie, 
followed by the savages shouting, " The brave woman ! the brave woman ! 
Don't hurt her ! " They finally overtook her, and while she was fighting 
them in front, a powerful savage came up behind her, seized her by the 
neck and dragged her to the ground. Horse and woman were made 
captives. Mrs. Holt was a long time a captive among the Indians, but 
was afterwards ransomed. 

In this sharp conflict two-thirds of the white people were slain and 
wounded, and all their horses, baggage and provision were lost. Only 
twenty-eight straggling men now remained to fight five hundred Indians 
rendered furious by the sight of blood. They succeeded in breaking 
through the ranks of the murderers and gaining a slight eminence on the 
prairie near the Oak Woods. The Indians did not pursue, but gathered 
on their flanks, while the chiefs held a consultation on the sand-hills, and 
showed signs of willingness to parley. It would have been madness on 
the part of the whites to renew the fight ; and so Capt. Heald went for- 
ward and met Blackbird on the open prairie, where terms of surrender 
were soon agreed upon. It was arranged that the white people should 
give up their arms to Blackbird, and that the survivors should become 
prisoners of war, to be exchanged for ransoms as soon as practicable. 
With this understanding captives and captors started for the Indian 
camp near the fort, to which Mrs. Helm had been taken bleeding and 
suffering by Black Partridge, and had met her step-father and learned 
that her husband was safe. 

A new scene of horror was now opened at the Indian camp. The 
wounded, not being included in the terms of surrender, as it was inter- 
preted by the Indians, and the British general, Proctor, having offered a 
liberal bounty for American scalps, delivered at Maiden, nearly all the 
wounded men were killed and scalped, and the price of the trophies was 
afterwards paid by the British government. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. 



121 




SHABBONA. 



[This was engraved from a daguerreotype, taken when Shabbona was 83 years old.] 



This celebrated Indian chief, whose portrait appears in this work, deserves 
more than a passing notice. Although Shabbona was not so conspicuous as 
Tecumseh or Black Hawk, yet in point of merit he was superior to either 
of them. 

Shabbona was born at an Indian village on the Kankakee River, now in 
Will County, about the year 1775. While young he was made chief of the 
band, and went to Shabbona Grove, now DeKalb County, where they were 
found in the early settlement of the county. 

In the war of 1812, Shabbona, with his warriors, joined Tecumseh, was 



122 HISTOftY OF THF STATE OF ILLINOIS. 

aid to that great chief, and stood by his side when he fell at the battle of 
the Thames. At the time of the Winnebago war, in 1827, he visited almost 
every village among the Pottawatomies, and by his persuasive arguments 
prevented them from taking part in the war. By request of the citizens 
of Chicago, Shabbona, accompanied by Billy Caldwell (Sauganash), visited 
Big Foot's village at Geneva Lake, in order to pacify the warriors, as fears 
were entertained that they were about to raise the tomahawk against the 
whites. Here Shabbona was taken prisoner by Big Foot, and his life 
threatened, but on the following day was set at liberty. From that time 
the Indians (through reproach) styled him " the white man's friend," 
and many times his life was endangered. 

Before the Black Hawk war, Shabbona met in council at two differ- 
ent times, and by his influence prevented his people from taking part with 
the Sacs and Foxes. After the death of Black Partridge and Senachwine, 
no chief among the Pottawatomies exerted so much influence as Shabbona. 
Black Hawk, aware of this influence, visited him at two different times, in 
order to enlist him in his cause, but was unsuccessful. While Black Hawk 
was a prisoner at Jefferson Barracks, he said, had it not been for Shabbona 
the whole Pottawatomie nation would have joined his standard, and he 
could have continued the war for years. 

To Shabbona many of the early settlers of Illinois owe the pres- 
ervation of their lives, for it is a well-known fact, had he not notified the 
people of their danger, a large portion of them would have fallen victims 
to the tomahawk of savages. By saving the lives of whites he endangered 
his own, for the Sacs and Foxes threatened to kill him, and made two 
attempts to execute their threats. They killed Pypeogee, his son, and 
Pyps, his nephew, and hunted him down as though he was a wild beast. 

Shabbona had a reservation of two sections of land at his Grove, but 
by leaving it and going west for a short time, the Government declared 
the reservation forfeited, and sold it the same as other vacant land. On 
Shabbona's return, and finding his possessions gone, he was very sad and 
broken down in spirit, and left the Grove for ever. The citizens of Ottawa 
raised money and bought him a tract of land on the Illinois River, above 
Seneca, in Grundy County, on which they built a house, and supplied 
him with means to live on. He lived here until his death, which occurred 
on the 17th of July, 1859, in the eighty-fourth year of his age, and was 
buried with great pomp in the cemetery at Morris. His squaw, Pokanoka, 
was drowned in Mazen Creek, Grundy County, on the 30th of November, 
1864, and was buried by his side. 

In 1861 subscriptions were taken up in many of the river towns, to 
erect a monument over the remains of Shabbona, but the war breaking 
out, the enterprise was abandoned. Only a plain marble slab marks the 
resting-place of this friend of the white man. 



Abstract of Illinois State Laws. 



BILLS OF EXCHANGE AND PROMISSORY NOTES. 

No promissory note, check, draft, bill of exchange, order, or note, nego- 
tiable instrument payable at sight, or on demand, or on presentment, shall 
be entitled to days of grace. All other bills of exchange, drafts or notes are 
entitled to three days of grace. All the above mentioned paper falling 
due on Sunday, New Years' Day, the Fourth of July, Christmas, or any 
day appointed or recommended by the President of the United States or 
the Governor of the State as a day of fast or thanksgiving, shall be deemed 
as due on the day previous, and should two or more of these days come 
together, then such instrument shall be treated as due on the day previous 
to the first of said days. No defense can be made against a negotiable 
instrument (assigned before due*) in the hands of the assignee without 
notice, except fraud was used in obtaining the same. To hold an indorser, 
due diligence must be used by suit, in collecting of the maker, unless suit 
would have been unavailing. Notes payable to person named or to order, 
in order to absolutely transfer title, must be indorsed by the payee. Notes 
payable to bearer may be transferred by delivery, and when so payable 
every indorser thereon is held as a guarantor of payment unless otherwise 
expressed. 

In computing interest or discount on negotiable instruments, a month 
shall be considered a calendar month or twelfth of a year, and for less 
than a month, a day shall be figured a thirtieth part of a month. Notes 
only bear interest when so expressed, but after due they draw the legal 
interest, even if not stated. 

INTEREST. 

The legal rate of interest is six per cent. Parties may agree in writing 
on a rate not exceeding eight per cent. If a rate of interest greater than 
eight per cent is contracted for, it works a forfeiture of the whole of said 
interest, and only the principal can be recovered. 

DESCENT. 

When no will is made, the property of a deceased person is distrib- 
uted as follows : 

123 



124 ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 

First. To his or her children and their descendants in equal parts ; 
the descendants of the deceased child or grandchild taking the share of 
their deceased parents in equal parts among them. 

Second. Where there is no child, nor descendant of such child, and 
no widow or surviving husband, then to the parents, brothers and sisters 
of the deceased, and their descendants, in equal parts, the surviving 
parent, if either be dead, taking a double portion ; and if there is no 
parent living, then to the brothers and sisters of the intestate and their 
descendants. 

Third. When there is a widow or surviving husband, and no child or 
children, or descendants of the same, then one-half of the real estate and 
the whole of the personal estate shall descend to such widow or surviving 
husband, absolutely, and the other half of the real estate shall descend as 
in other cases where there is no child or children or descendants of the 
same. 

Fourth. When there is a widow or surviving husband and also a child 
or children, or descendants of the latter, then one third of all the personal 
estate to the widow or surviving husband absolutely. 

Fifth. If there is no child, parent, brother or sister, or descendants of 
either of them, and no widow or surviving husband, then in equal parts 
to the next of kin to the intestate in equal degree. Collaterals shall not 
be represented except with the descendants of brothers and sisters of the 
intestate, and there shall be no distinction between kindred of the whole 
and the half blood. 

Sixth. If any intestate leaves a widow or surviving husband and no 
kindred, then to such widow or surviving husband ; and if there is no such 
widow or surviving husband, it shall escheat to and vest in the county 
where the same, or the greater portion thereof, is situated. 

WILLS AND ESTATES OF DECEASED PERSONS. 

No exact form of words are necessary in order to make a will good at 
law. Every male person of the age of twenty-one years, and every female 
of the age of eighteen years, of sound mind and memory, can make a valid 
will ; it must be in tvriting, signed by the testator or by some one in his 
or her presence and by his or her direction, and attested by two or more 
credible witnesses. Care should be taken that the witnesses are not inter- 
ested in the will. Persons knowing themselves to have been named in the 
will or appointed executor, must within thirty days of the death of 
deceased cause the will to be proved and recorded in the proper county, 
or present it, and refuse to accept; on failure to do so are liable to forfeit 
the sum of twenty dollars per month. Inventory to be made by executor 
or administrator within three months from date of letters testamentary or 



ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 125 

of administration. Executors' and administrators' compensation not to 
exceed six per cent, on amount of personal estate, and three per cent. 
on money realized from real estate, with such additional allowance a? 
shall be reasonable for extra services. Appraisers'' compensation $2 pei 
day. 

Notice requiring all claims to be presented against the estate shall btf 
given by the executor or administrator within six ■months of being - quali- 
fied. Any person having a claim and not presenting it at the time fixed 
by said notice is required to have summons issued notifying the executor 
or administrator of his having filed his claim in court ; in such cases the 
costs have to be paid by the claimant. Claims should be filed within two 
years from the time administration is granted on an estate, as after that 
time they are forever barred, unless other estate is found that was not in- 
ventoried. Married women, infants, persons insane, imprisoned or without 
the United States, in the employment of the United States, or of this 
State, have two years after their disabilities are removed to file claims. 

Claims are classified and paid out of the estate in the following manner : 

First. Funeral expenses. 

Second. The widow's aivard, if there is a widow ; or children if there 
are children, and no widow. 

Third. Expenses attending the last illness, not including physician's 
bill. 

Fourth. Debts due the common school or township fund . 

Fifth. All expenses of proving the will and taking out letters testa- 
mentary or administration, and settlement of the estate, and the physi- 
cian s bill in the last illness of deceased. 

Sixth. Where the deceased has received money in trust for any pur- 
pose, his executor or administrator shall pay out of his estate the amount 
received and not accounted for. 

Seventh. All other debts and demands of whatsoever kind, without 
regard to quality or dignity, which shall be exhibited to the court within 
two years from the granting of letters. 

Award to Widow and Children, exclusive of debts and legacies or be- 
quests, except funeral expenses : 

First. The family pictures and wearing apparel, jewels and ornaments 
of herself and minor children. 

Second. School books and the family library of the value of $100. 

Third. One sewing machine. 

Fourth. Necessary beds, bedsteads and bedding for herself and family. 

Fifth. The stoves and pipe used in the family, with the necessary 
cooking utensils, or in case they have none, $50 in money. 

Sixth. Household and kitchen furniture to the value of $100. 

Seventh. One milch cow and calf for every four members of her family. 



126 ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 

Eighth. Two sheep for each member of her family, and the fleeces 
taken from the same, and one horse, saddle and bridle. 

Ninth. Provisions for herself and family for one year. 

Tenth. Food for the stock above specified for six months. 

Eleventh. Fuel for herself and family for three months. 

Twelfth. One hundred dollars worth of other property suited to her 
condition in life, to be selected by the widow. 

The widow if she elects may have in lieu of the said award, the same 
personal property or money in place thereof as is or may be exempt from 
execution or attachment against the head of a family. 

TAXES. 

The owners of real and personal property, on the first day of May in 
each year, are liable for the taxes thereon. 

Assessments should be completed before the fourth Monday in June> 
at which time the town board of review meets to examine assessments, 
hear objections, and make such changes as ought to be made. The county 
board have also power to correct or change assessments. 

The tax books are placed in the hands of the town collector on or 
before t) e tenth day of December, who retains them until the tenth day 
of March following, when he is required to return them to the county 
treasurer, who then collects all delinquent taxes. 

No costs accrue on real estate taxes till advertised, which takes place 
the first day of April, when three weeks' notice is required before judg- 
ment. Cost of advertising, twenty cents each tract of land, and ten cents 
each lot. 

Judgment is usually obtained at May term of County Court. Costs 
six cents each tract of land, and five cents each lot. Sale takes place in 
June. Costs in addition to those before mentioned, twenty-eight cents 
each tract of land, and twenty-seven cents each town lot. 

Real estate sold for taxes may be redeemed any time before the expi- 
ration of two years from the date of sale, by payment to the County Clerk 
of the amount for which it was sold and twenty-five per cent, thereon if 
redeemed within six months, fifty per cent, if between six and twelve 
months, if between twelve and eighteen months seventy-five per cent., 
and if between eighteen months and two years one hundred per cent., 
and in addition, all subsequent taxes paid by the purchaser, with ten per 
cent, interest thereon, also one dollar each tract if notice is given by the 
purchaser of the sale, and a fee of twenty-five cents to the clerk for his 

certificate. 

JURISDICTION OF COURTS. 

Justices have jurisdiction in all civil cases on contracts for the recovery 
of moneys for damages for injury to real property, or taking, detaining, or 



ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 127 

injuring personal property ; for rent; for all cases to recover damages done 
real or personal property by railroad companies, in actions of replevin, and 
in actions for damages for fraud in the sale, purchase, or exchange of per- 
sonal property, when the amount claimed as due is not over $200. They 
have also jurisdiction in all cases for violation of the ordinances of cities, 
towns or villages. A justice of the peace may orally order an officer or a 
private person to arrest any one committing or attempting to commit a 
criminal offense. He also upon complaint can issue his warrant for the 
arrest of any person accused of having committed a crime, and have him 
brought before him for examination. 

COUNTY COURTS 
Have jurisdiction in all matters of probate (except in counties having a 
population of one hundred thousand or over), settlement of estates of 
deceased persons, appointment of guardians and conservators, and settle- 
ment of their accounts ; all matters relating to apprentices ; proceedings 
for the collection of taxes and assessments, and in proceedings of executors, 
administrators, guardians and conservators for the sale of real estate. In 
law cases they have concurrent jurisdiction with Circuit Courts in all 
cases where justices of the peace now have, or hereafter may have, 
jurisdiction when the amount claimed shall not exceed $1,000, and in all 
criminal offenses where the punishment is not imprisonment in the peni- 
tentiary, or death, and in all cases of appeals from justices of the peace 
and police magistrates; excepting when the county judge is sitting as a 
justice of the peace. Circuit Courts have unlimited jurisdiction. 

LIMITATION OF ACTION. 

Accounts five years. Notes and written contracts ten years. Judg- 
ments twenty years. Partial payments or new promise in writing, within 
or after said period, will revive the debt. Absence from the State deducted, 
and when the cause of action is barred by the law of another State, it has 
the same effect here. Slander and libel, one year. Personal injuries, two 
years. To recover land or make entry thereon, twenty years. Action to 
foreclose mortgage or trust deed, or make a sale, within ten years. 

All persons in possession of land, and paying taxes for seven consecu- 
tive years, with color of title, and all persons paying taxes for seven con- 
secutive years, with color of title, on vacant land, shall be held to be the 
legal owners to the extent of their 'paper title. 

MARRIED WOMEN 

May sue and be sued. Husband and wife not liable for each other s debts, 
either before or after marriage, but both are liable for expenses and edu- 
cation of the family. 



128 ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 

She may contract the same as if unmarried, except that in a partner- 
ship business she can not, without consent of her husband, unless he has 
abandoned or deserted her, or is idiotic or insane, or confined in peniten- 
tiary ; she is entitled and can recover her own earnings, but neither hus- 
band nor wife is entitled to compensation for any services rendered for the 
other. At the death of the husband, in addition to widow's award, a 
married woman has a dower interest (one-third) in all real estate owned 
by her husband after their marriage, and which has not been released by 
her, and the husband has the same interest in the real estate of the wife 
at her death. 

EXEMPTIONS FROM FORCED SALE. 

Home worth $1,000, and the following Personal Property : Lot of ground 
and buildings thereon, occupied as a residence by the debtor, being a house- 
holder and having a family, to the value of $1,000. Exemption continues 
after the death of the householder for the benefit of widow and family, some 
one of them occupying the homestead until youngest child shall become 
twenty-one years of age, and until death of widoiv. There is no exemption 
from sale for taxes, assessments, debt or liability incurred for the purchase 
or improvement of said homestead. No release or waiver of exemption is 
valid, unless in writing, and subscribed by such householder and wife (if 
he have one), and acknowledged as conveyances of real estate are required 
to be acknowledged. The following articles of personal property owned 
by the debtor, are exempt from execution, writ of attachment, and distress 
for rent : The necessary wearing apparel, Bibles, school books and family 
pictures of every person ; and, 2d, one hundred dollars worth of other 
property to be selected by the debtor, and, in addition, when the debtor 
is the head of a family and resides with the same, three hundred dollars 
worth of other property to be selected by the debtor ; provided that such 
selection and exemption shall not be made by the debtor or allowed to 
him or her from any money, salary or wages due him or her from any 
person or persons or corporations whatever. 

When the head of a family shall die, desert or not reside with the 
same, the family shall be entitled to and receive all the benefit and priv- 
ileges which are by this act conferred upon the head of a family residing 
with the same. No personal property is exempt from execution when 
judgment is obtained for the wages of laborers or servants. Wages of a 
laborer who is the head of a family can not be garnisheed, except the sum 
due him be in excess of $25. 



ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 129 

DEEDS AND MORTGAGES. 

To be valid there must be a valid consideration. Special care should 
be taken to have them signed, sealed, delivered, and properly acknowl- 
edged, with the proper seal attached. Witnesses are not required. The 
acknoivledgement must be made in this state, before Master in Chancery, 
Notary Public, United States Commissioner, Circuit or County Clerk, Justice 
of Peace, or any Court of Record having a seal, or any Judge, Justice, or 
Clerk of any such Court. When taken before a Notary Public, or United 
States Commissioner, the same shall be attested by his official seal, when 
taken before a Court or the Clerk thereof, the same shall be attested by 
the seal of such Court, and when taken before a Justice of the Peace resid- 
ing out of the county where the real estate to be conveyed lies, there shall 
be added a certificate of the County Clerk under his seal of office, that he 
was a Justice of the Peace in the county at the time of taking the same. 
A deed is good without such certificate attached, but can not be used in 
evidence unless such a certificate is produced or other competent evidence 
introduced. Acknowledgements made out of the state must either be 
executed according to the laws of this state, or there should be attached 
a certificate that it is in conformity with the laws of the state or country 
where executed. Where this is not done the same may be proved by any 
other legal way. Acknowledgments where the Homestead rights are to 
be waived must state as follows : " Including the release and waiver of 
the right of homestead." 

Notaries Public can take acknowledgements any where in the state. 

Sheriffs, if authorized by the mortgagor of real or personal property 
in his mortgage, may sell the property mortgaged. 

In the case of the death of grantor or holder of the equity of redemp- 
tion of real estate mortgaged, or conveyed by deed of trust where equity 
of redemption is waived, and it contains power of sale, must be foreclosed 
in the same manner as a common mortgage in court. 

ESTRAYS. 

Horses, mules, asses, neat cattle, swine, sheep, or goats found straying 
at any time during the year, in counties where such animals are not allowed 
to run at large, or between the last day of October and the 15th day of 
April in other counties, the oivner thereof being unknown, may be taken up 
as estrays. 

No person not a householder in the county where estray is found can 
lawfully take up an estray, and then only upon or about his farm or place 
of residence. Estrays should not be used before advertised, except animals 
giving milk, which may be milked for their benefit. 



130 ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 

Notices must be posted up within five (5) days in three (3) of the 
most public places in the town or precinct in which estray was found, giv- 
ing the residence of the taker up, and a particular description of the 
estray, its age, color, and marks natural and artificial, and stating before 
what justice of the peace in such town or precinct, and at what time, not 
less than ten (10) nor more than fifteen (15) days from the time of post- 
ing such notices, he will apply to have the estray appraised. 

A copy of such notice should be filed by the taker up with the town 
clerk, whose duty it is to enter the same at large, in a book kept by him 
for that purpose. 

If the owner of estray shall not have appeared and proved ownership, 
and taken the same away, first paying the taker up his reasonable charges 
for taking up, keeping, and advertising the same, the taker up shall appear 
before the justice of the peace mentioned in above mentioned notice, and 
make an affidavit as required by law. 

As the affidavit has to be made before the justice, and all other steps as 
to appraisement, etc., are before him, who is familiar therewith, they are 
therefore omitted here. 

Any person taking up an estray at any other place than about or 
upon his farm or residence, or without complying with the law, shall forfeit 
and pay a fine of ten dollars with costs. 

Ordinary diligence is required in taking care of estrays, but in case 
they die or get away the taker is not liable for the same. 

GAME. 

It is unlawful for any person to kill, or attempt to kill or destroy, in 
any manner, any prairie hen or chicken or woodcock between the loth day 
of January and the 1st day of September ; or any deer, faivn, wild-turkey, 
partridge or pheasant between the 1st day of February and the 1st day 
of October ; or any quail between the 1st day of February and 1st day of 
November ; or any wild goose, duck, snipe, brant or other water fowl 
between the 1st day of May and 15th day of August in each year. 
Penalty : Fine not less than $5 nor more than $25, for each bird or 
animal, and costs of suit, and stand committed to county jail until fine is 
paid, but not exceeding ten days. It is unlawful to hunt with gun, dog 
or net within the inclosed grounds or lands of another without permission. 
Penalty: Fine not less than $3 nor more than $100, to be paid into 
school fund. 

WEIGHTS AND MEASURES. 

Whenever any of the following articles shall be contracted for, or 
sold or delivered, and no special contract or agreement shall be made to 
the contrary, the weight per bushel shall be as follows, to-wit : 



ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 131 





Pounds. 




Pounds. 


Stone Coal, - 


- 80 


Buckwheat, - 


- 52 


Unslacked Lime, 


- 80 


Coarse Salt, 


- 50 


Corn in the ear, 


- 70 


Barley, - 


- 48 


Wheat, 


- 60 


Corn Meal, 


- 48 


Irish Potatoes, 


- 60 


Castor Beans, 


- 46 


White Beans, 


- 60 


Timothy Seed, - 


- 45 


Clover Seed, - 


- 60 


Hemp Seed, - 


- 44 


Onions, - 


- 57 


Malt, - 


- 38 


Shelled Corn, 


- 56 


Dried Peaches, 


- 33 


Rye, - 


- 56 


Oats, - 


- 32 


Flax Seed, 


- 56 


Dried Apples, 


- 24 


Sweet Potatoes, - 


- 55 


Bran, - 


- 20 


Turnips, 


- 55 


Blue Grass Seed, - 


- 14 


Fine Salt, - 


- 55 


Hair (plastering), 


8 



Penalty for giving less than the above standard is double the amount 
of property wrongfully not given, and ten dollars addition thereto. 

MILLERS. 

The owner or occupant of every public grist mill in this state shall 
grind all grain brought to his mill in its turn. The toll for both steam 
and water mills, is, for grinding and bolting wheat, rye, or other grain, one 
eighth part; for grinding Indian corn, oats, barley and buckwheat not 
required to be bolted, one seventh part ; for grinding malt, and chopping all 
kinds of grain, one eighth part. It is the duty of every miller when his 
mill is in repair, to aid and assist in loading and unloading all grain brought 
to him to be ground, and he is also required to keep an accurate half 
bushel measure, and an accurate set of toll dishes or scales for weishino- 
the grain. The penalty for neglect or refusal to comply with the law is 
§5, to the use of any person to sue for the same, to be recovered before 
any justice of the peace of the county where penalty is incurred. Millers 
are accountable for the safe keeping of all grain left in his mill for the 
purpose of being ground, with bags or casks containing same (except it 
results from unavoidable accidents), provided that such bags or casks are 
distinctly marked with the initial letters of the owner's name. 

MARKS AND BRANDS. 

Owners of cattle, horses, hogs, sheep or goats may have one ear mark 
and one brand, but which shall be different from his neighbor's, and may 
be recorded by the county clerk of the county in which such property is 
kept. Th.e fee for such record is fifteen cents. The record of such shall 
be open to examination free of charge. In cases of disputes as to marks 
or brands, such record is prima facie evidence. Owners of cattle, horses, 
hogs, sheep or goats that may have been branded by the former oioner, 



132 ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 

may be re-branded in presence of one or more of his neighbors, who shall 
certify to the facts of the marking or branding being done, when done, 
and in what brand or mark they were re-branded or re-marked, which 
certificate may also be recorded as before stated.^ 

ADOPTION OF CHILDREN. 

Children may be adopted by any resident of this state, by filing a 
petition in the Circuit or County Court of the county in which he resides, 
asking leave to do so, and if desired may ask that the name of the child 
be changed. Such petition, if made by a person having a husband or 
wife, will not be granted, unless the husband or wife joins therein, as the 
adoption must be by them jointly. 

The petition shall state name, sex, and age of the child, and the new 
name, if it is desired to change the name. Also the name and residence 
of the parents of the child, if known, and of the guardian, if any, and 
whether the parents or guardians consent to the adoption. 

The court must find, before granting decree, that the parents of the 
child, or the survivors of them, have deserted his or her family or such 
child for one year next preceding the application, or if neither are living, 
the guardian ; if no guardian, the next of kin in this state capable of giving 
consent, has had notice of the presentation of the petition and consents 
to such adoption. If the child is of the age of fourteen years or upwards, 
the adoption can not be made without its consent. 

SURVEYORS AND SURVEYS. 

There is in every county elected a surveyor known as county sur- 
veyor, who has power to appoint deputies, for whose official acts he is 
responsible. It is the duty of the county surveyor, either by himself or 
his deputy, to make all surveys that he may be called upon to make within 
his county as soon as may be after application is made. The necessary 
chainmen and other assistance must be employed by the person requiring 
the same to be done, and to be by him paid, unless otherwise agreed ; but 
the chainmen must be disinterested persons and approved by the surveyor 
and sworn by him to measure justly and impartially. 

The County Board in each county is required by law to provide a copy 
of the United States field notes and plats of their surveys of the lands 
in the county to be kept in the recorder's office subject to examination 
by the public, and the county surveyor is required to make his surveys 
in conformity to said notes, plats and the laws of the United States gov- 
erning such matters. The surveyor is also required to keep a record 
of all surveys made by him, which shall be subject to inspection by any 
one interested, and shall be delivered up to his successor in office. A. 



ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 133 

certified copy of the said surveyor's record shall be prima facie evidence 
of its contents. 

The fees of county surveyors are six dollars per day. The county 
surveyor is also ex officio inspector of mines, and as such, assisted by some 
practical miner selected by him, shall once each year inspect all the 
mines in the county, for which they shall each receive such compensa- 
tion as may be fixed by the County Board, not exceeding $5 a day, to 
be paid out of the county treasury. 

ROADS AND BRIDGES. 

Where practicable from the nature of the ground, persons traveling 
in any kind of vehicle, must turn to the right of the center of the road, so 
as to permit each carriage to pass without interfering with each other. 
The penalty for a violation of this provision is $5 for every offense, to 
be recovered by the party injured; but to recover, there must have 
occurred some injury to person or property resulting from the violation. 
The owners of any carriage traveling upon any road in this State for the 
conveyance of passengers who shall employ or continue in his employment 
as driver any person who is addicted to drunkenness, or the excessive use of 
spiritous liquors, after he has had notice of the same, shall forfeit, at the 
rate of $5 per day, and if any driver while actually engaged in driving 
any such carriage, shall be guilty of intoxication to such a degree as to 
endanger the safety of passengers, it shall be the duty of the owner, on 
receiving written notice of the fact, signed by one of the passengers, and 
certified by him on oath, forthwith to discharge such driver. If such owner 
shall have such driver in his employ within three months after such notice, 
he is liable for $5 per day for the time he shall keep said driver in his 
employment after receiving such notice. 

Persons driving any carriage on any public highway are prohibited 
from running their horses upon any occasion under a penalty of a fine not 
exceeding $10, or imprisonment not exceeding sixty days, at the discre- 
tion of the court. Horses attached to any carriage used to convey passen- 
gers for hire must be properly hitched or the lines placed in the hands of 
some other person before the driver leaves them for any purpose. For 
violation of this provision each driver shall forfeit twenty dollars, to be 
recovered by action, to be commenced within six months. It is under- 
stood by the term carriage herein to mean any carriage or vehicle used 
for the transportation of passengers or goods or either of them. 

The commissioners of highways in the different towns have the care 
and superintendence of highways and bridges therein. They have all 
the powers necessary to lay out, vacate, regulate and repair all roads* 
build and repair bridges. In addition to the above, it is their duty to 
erect and keep in repair at the forks or crossing-place of the most 



134 ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 

important roads post and guide boards with plain inscriptions, giving 
directions and distances to the most noted places to which such road may 
lead ; also to make provisions to prevent thistles, burdock, and cockle 
burrs, mustard, yellow dock, Indian mallow and jimson weed from 
seeding, and to extirpate the same as far as practicable, and to prevent 
all rank growth of vegetation on the public highways so far as the same 
may obstruct public travel, and it is in their discretion to erect watering 
places for public use for watering teams at such points as may be deemed 
advisable. 

The Commissioners, on or before the 1st day of May of each year, 
shall make out and deliver to their treasurer a list of all able-bodied men 
in their town, excepting paupers, idiots, lunatics, and such others as are 
exempt by law, and assess against each the sum of two dollars as a poll 
tax for highway purposes. Within thirty days after such list is delivered 
they shall cause a written or printed notice to be given to each person so 
assessed, notifying him of the time when and place where such tax must 
be paid, or its equivalent in labor performed ; they may contract with 
persons owing such poll tax to perform a certain amount of labor on any 
road or bridge in payment of the same, and if such tax is not paid nor 
labor performed by the first Monday of July of such year, or within ten 
days after notice is given after that time, they shall bring suit therefor 
against such person before a justice of the peace, who shall hear and 
determine the case according to law for the offense complained of, and 
shall forthwith issue an execution, directed to any constable of the county 
where the delinquent shall reside, who shall forthwith collect the moneys 
therein mentioned. 

The Commissioners of Highways of each town shall annually ascer- 
tain, as near as practicable, how much money must be raised by tax on real 
and personal property for the making and repairing of roads, only, to any 
amount they may deem necessary, not exceeding forty cents on each one 
hundred dollars' worth, as valued on the assessment roll of the previous 
year. The tax so levied on property lying within an incorporated village, 
town or city, shall be paid over to the corporate authorities of such town, 
village or city. Commissioners shall receive $1.50 for each day neces- 
sarily employed in the discharge of their duty. 

Overseers. At the first meeting the Commissioners shall choose one 
of their number to act General Overseer of Highways in their township, 
whose duty it shall be to take charge of and safely keep all tools, imple- 
ments and machinery belonging to said town, and shall, by the direction 
of the Board, have general supervision of all roads and bridges in their 
town. 



ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 135 

As all township and county officers are familiar with their duties, it 
is only intended to give the points of the law that the public should he 
familiar with. The manner of laying out, altering or vacating roads, etc., 
will not be here stated, as it would require more space than is contem- 
plated in a work of this kind. It is sufficient to state that, the first step 
is by petition, addressed to the Commissioners, setting out what is prayed 
for, giving the names of the owners of lands if known, if not known so 
state, over which the road is to pass, giving the general course, its place 
of beginning, and where it terminates. It requires not less than twelve 
freeholders residing within three miles of the road who shall sign the 
petition. Public roads must not be less than fifty feet wide, nor more 
than sixty feet wide. Roads not exceeding two miles in length, if peti- 
tioned for, may be laid out, not less than forty feet. Private roads 
for private and public use, may be laid out of the width of three rods, on 
petition of the person directly interested ; the damage occasioned thereby 
shall be paid by the premises benefited thereby, and before the road is 
opened. If not opened in two years, the order shall be considered 
rescinded. Commissioners in their discretion may permit persons who 
live on or have private roads, to work out their road tax thereon. Public 
roads must be opened in five days from date of filing order of location, 
or be deemed vacated. 

DRAINAGE. 

Whenever one or more owners or occupants of land desire to construct 
i drain or ditch across the land of others for agricultural, sanitary or 
mining purposes, the proceedings are as follows : 

File a petition in the Circuit or County Court of the county in which 
the proposed ditch or drain is to be constructed, setting forth the neces- 
sity for the same, with a description of its proposed starting point, route 
and terminus, and if it shall be necessary for the drainage of the land or 
coal mines or for sanitary purposes, that a drain, ditch, levee or similar 
work be constructed, a description of the same. It shall also set forth 
the names of all persons owning the land over which such drain or ditch 
shall be constructed, or if unknown stating that fact. 

No private property shall be taken or damaged for the purpose of 
constructing a ditch, drain or levee, without compensation, if claimed by 
the owner, the same to be ascertained by a jury ; but if the construction 
of such ditch, drain or levee shall be a benefit to the owner, the same 
shall be a set off against such compensation. 

If the proceedings seek to affect the property of a minor, lunatic or 
married woman, the guardian, conservator or husband of the same shall 
be made party defendant. The petition may be amended and parties 
made defendants at any time when it is necessary to a fair trial. 



136 ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 

When the petition is presented to the judge, he shall note there m 
when he will hear the same, and order the issuance of summonses a*id 
the publication of notice to each non-resident or unknown defendant. 

The petition may be heard by such judge in vacation as well as in 
term time. Upon the trial, the jury shall ascertain the just compensation 
to each owner of the property sought to be damaged by the construction 
of such ditch, drain or levee, and truly report the same. 

As it is only contemplated in a work of this kind to give an abstract 
of the laws, and as the parties who have in charge the execution of the 
further proceedings are likely to be familiar with the requirements of the 
statute, the necessary details are not here inserted. 

WOLF SCALPS. 

The County Board of any county in this State may hereafter alluw 
such bounty on ivolf scalps as the board may deem reasonable. 

Any person claiming a bounty shall produce the scalp or scalps with 
the ears thereon, within sixty days after the wolf or wolves shall have 
been caught, to the Clerk of the County Board, who shall administer to 
said person the following oath or affirmation, to-wit: "You do solemnly 
swear (or affirm, as the case may be), that the scalp or scalps here pro- 
duced by you was taken from a wolf or wolves killed and first captured 
by yourself within the limits of this county, and within the sixty days 
last past." 

CONVEYANCES. 

When the reversion expectant on a lease of any tenements or here- 
ditaments of any tenure shall be surrendered or merged, the estate which 
shall for the time being confer as against the tenant under the same lease 
the next vested right to the same tenements or hereditaments, shall, to 
the extent and for the purpose of preserving such incidents to and obli- 
gations on the same reversion, as but for the surrender or merger thereof, 
would have subsisted, be deemed the reversion expectant on the same 
lease. 

PAUPERS. 

Every poor person who shall be unable to earn a livelihood in conse- 
quence of any bodily infirmity, idiocy, lunacy or unavoidable cause, shall 
be supported by the father, grand-father, mother, grand-mother, children, 
grand-children, brothers or sisters of such poor person, if they or either 
of them be of sufficient ability ; but if any of such dependent class shall 
have become so from intemperance or other bad conduct, they shall not be 
entitled to support from any relation except parent or child. 



ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 137 

The children shall first be called on to support their parents, if they 
are able ; but if not, the parents of such poor person shall then be called 
on, if of sufficient ability ; and if there be no parents or children able, 
then the brothers and sisters of such dependent person shall be called 
upon ; and if there be no brothers or sisters of sufficient ability, the 
grand-children of such person shall next be called on ; and if they are 
not able, then the grand-parents. Married females, while their husbands 
live, shall not be liable to contribute for the support of their poor relations 
except out of their separate property. It is the duty of the state's 
(county) attorney, to make complaint to the County Court of his county 
against all the relatives of such paupers in this state liable to his support 
and prosecute the same. In case the state's attorney neglects, or refuses, to 
complain in such cases, then it is the duty of the overseer of the poor to 
do so. The person called upon to contribute shall have at least ten days' 
notice of such application by summons. The court has the power to 
determine the kind of support, depending upon the circumstances of the 
parties, and may also order two or more of the different degrees to main- 
tain such poor person, and prescribe the proportion of each, according to 
their ability. The court may specify the time for which the relative shall 
contribute — in fact has control over the entire subject matter, with power 
to enforce its orders. Every county (except those in which the poor are 
supported by the towns, and in such cases the towns are liable) is required 
to relieve and support all poor and indigent persons lawfully resident 
therein. Residence means the actual residence of the party, or the place 
where he was employed ; or in case he was in no employment, then it 
shall be the place where he made his home. When any person becomes 
chargeable as a pauper in any county or town who did not reside at the 
commencement of six months' immediately preceding his becoming so, 
but did at that time reside in some other county or town in this state, 
then the county or town, as the case may be, becomes liable for the expense 
of taking care of such person until removed, and it is the duty of the 
overseer to notify the proper authorities of the fact. If any person shall 
bring and leave any pauper in any county in this state where such pauper 
had no legal residence, knowing him to be such, he is liable to a fine of 
$100. In counties under township organization, the supervisors in each 
town are ex-ofncio overseers of the poor. The overseers of the poor act 
under the directions of the County Board in taking care of the poor and 
granting of temporary relief ; also, providing for non-resident persons not 
paupers who may be taken sick and not able to pay their way, and in case 
of death cause such person to be decently buried. 

The residence of the inmates of poorhouses and other charitable 
institutions for voting purposes is their former place of abode. 



138 ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 

FENCES. 

In counties under township organization, the town assessor and com- 
missioner of highways are the fence-viewers in their respective towns. 
In other counties the County Board appoints three in each precinct annu- 
ally. A lawful fence is four and one-half feet high, in good repair, con- 
sisting of rails, timber, boards, stone, hedges, or whatever the fence- 
viewers of the town or precinct where the same shall lie, shall consider 
equivalent thereto, but in counties under township organization the annual 
town meeting may establish any other kind of fence as such, or the County 
Board in other counties may do the same. Division fences shall be made 
and maintained in just proportion by the adjoining owners, except when 
the owner shall choose to let his land lie open, but after a division fence is 
built by agreement or otherwise, neither party can remove his part of such 
fence so long as he may crop or use such land for farm purposes, or without 
giving the other party one year's notice in writing of his intention to remove 
his portion. When any person shall enclose his land upon the enclosure 
of another, he shall refund the owner of the adjoining lands a just pro- 
portion of the value at that time of such fence. The value of fence and 
the just proportion to be paid or built and maintained by each is to be 
ascertained by two fence-viewers in the town or precinct. Such fence- 
viewers have power to settle all disputes between different owners as to 
fences built or to be built, as well as to repairs to be made. Each party 
chooses one of the viewers, but if the other party neglects, after eight 
days' notice in writing, to make his choice, then the other party may 
select both. It is sufficient to notify the tenant or party in possession, 
when the owner is not a resident of the town or precinct. The two 
fence-viewers chosen, after viewing the premises, shall hear the state- 
ments of the parties , in case they can't agree, they shall select another 
fence-viewer to act with them, and the decision of any two of them is 
final. The decision must be reduced to writing, and should plainly set 
out description of fence and all matters settled by them, and must be 
filed in the office of the town clerk in counties under township organiza- 
tion, and in other counties with the county clerk. 

Where any person is liable to contribute to the erection or the 
repairing of a division fence, neglects or refuses so to do, the party 
injured, after giving sixty days notice in writing when a fence is to be 
erected, or ten days when it is only repairs, may proceed to have the 
work done at the expense of the party whose duty it is to do it, to be 
recovered from him with costs of suit, and the party so neglecting shall 
also be liable to the party injured for all damages accruing from such 
neglect or refusal, to be determined by any two fence-viewers selected 
as before provided, the appraisement to be reduced to writing and signed. 



ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 139 

Where a person shall conclude to remove his part of a division fence, 
and let his land lie open, and having given the year's notice required, the 
adjoining owner may cause the value of said fence to be ascertained by 
fence-viewers as before provided, and on payment or tender of the 
amount of such valuation to the owner, it shall prevent the removal. A 
party removing a division fence without notice is liable for the damages 
accruing thereby. 

Where a fence has been built on the land of another through mis- 
take, the owner may enter upon such premises and remove his fence and 
material within oix months after the division line has been ascertained. 
Where the material to build such a fence has been taken from the land 
on which it was built, then before it can be removed, the person claiming 
must first pay for such material to the owner of the land from which it 
was taken, nor shall such a fence be removed at a time when the removal 
will throw open or expose the crops of the other party ; a reasonable 
time must be given beyond the .six months to remove crops. 

The compensation <)f fence-viewers is one dollar and fifty cents a 
day each, to be paid in the first instance by the party calling them, but 
in the end all expenses, including amount charged by the fence-viewers, 
must be paid equally by the parties, except in cases where a party neglects 
or refuses to make or maintain a just proportion of a division fence, when 
the party in default shall pay them. 

DAMAGES FROM TRESPASS. 

Where stock of any kind breaks into any person's enclosure, the 
fence being good and sufficient, the owner is liable for the damage done ; 
but where the damage is done by stock running at large, contrary to laiv, 
the owner is liable where there is not such a fence. Where stock ia 
found trespassing on the enclosure of another as aforesaid, the owner 01 
occupier of the premises may take possession of such stock and keep the 
same until damages, with reasonable charges for keeping and feeding and 
all costs of suit, are paid. Any person taking or rescuing such stock so 
held without his consent, shall be liable to a fine of not less than three 
nor more than five dollars for each animal rescued, to be recovered by 
suit before a justice of the peace for the use of the school fund. Within 
twenty-four hours after taking such animal into his possession, the per- 
son taking it up must give notice of the fact to the owner, if known, or 
if unknown, notices must be posted in some public place near the premises. 

LANDLORD AND TENANT. 

The owner of lands, or his legal representatives, can sue for and 
recover rent therefor, in any of the following cases : 

First. When rent is due and in arrears on a lease for life or lives. 



140 ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 

Second. When lands are held and occupied by any person without 
any special agreement for rent. 

Third. When possession is obtained under an agreement, written 
or verbal, for the purchase of the premises and before deed given, the 
right to possession is terminated by forfeiture on con-compliance with the 
agreement, and possession is wrongfully refused or neglected to be giver, 
upon demand made in writing by the party entitled thereto. Provided 
that all payments made by the vendee or his representatives or assigns, 
may be set off against the rent. 

Fourth. When land has been sold upon a judgment or a decree of 
court, when the party to such judgment or decree, or person holding under 
him, wrongfully refuses, or neglects, to surrender possession of the same, 
after demand in writing by the person entitled to the possession. 

Fifth. When the lands have been sold upon a mortgage or trust 
deed, and the mortgagor or grantor or person holding under him, wrong- 
fully refuses or neglects to surrender possession of the same, after demand 
in writing by the person entitled to the possession. 

If any tenant, or any person who shall come into possession from or 
under or by collusion with such tenant, shall willfully hold over any lands, 
etc., after the expiration the term of their lease, and after demand made 
in writing for the possession thereof, is liable to pay double rent. A 
tenancy from year to year requires sixty days notice in writing, to termi- 
nate the same at the end of the year ; such notice can be given at any 
time within four months preceding the last sixty days of the year. 

A tenancy by the month, or less than a year, where the tenant holds 
over without any special agreement, the landlord may terminate the 
tenancy, by thirty days notice in writing. 

When rent is due, the landlord may serve a notice upon the tenant, 
stating that unless the rent is paid within not less than five days, his lease 
will be terminated ; if the rent is not paid, the landlord may consider the 
lease ended. When default is made in any of the terms of a lease, it 
shall not be necessary to give more than ten days notice to quit or of the 
termination of such tenancy ; and the same may be terminated on giving 
such notice to quit, at any time after such default in any of the terms of 
such lease ; which notice may be substantially in the following form, viz : 

To , You are hereby notified that, in consequence of your default 

in (here insert the character of the default), of the premises now occupied 
by you, being etc. (here describe the premises), I have elected to deter- 
mine your lease, and you are hereby notified to quit and deliver up pos- 
session of the same to me within ten days of this date (dated, etc.) 

The above to be signed by the lessor or his agent, and no other notice 
or demand of possession or termination of such tenancy is necessary. 

Demand may be made, or notice served, by delivering a written or 



ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 141 

printed, or partly either, copy thereof to the tenant, or leaving the same 
with some person above the .age of twelve years residing on or in posses- 
sion of the premises ; and in case no one is in the actual possession of the 
said premises, then by posting the same on the premises. When the 
tenancy is for a certain time, and the term expires by the terms of the 
lease, the tenant is then bound to surrender possession, and no notice 
to quit or demand of possession is necessary. 

Distress for rent. — In all cases of distress for rent, the landlord, by 
himself, his agent or attorney, may seize for rent any personal property of 
his tenant that may be found in the county where the tenant resides ; the 
property of any other person, even if found on the premises, is not 
liable. 

An inventory of the property levied upon, with a statement of the 
amount of rent claimed, should be at once filed with some justice of the 
peace, if not over $200 ; and if above that sum, with the clerk of a court 
of record of competent jurisdiction. Property may be released, by the 
party executing a satisfactory bond for double the amount. 

The landlord may distrain for rent, any time within six months after 
the expiration of the term of the lease, or when terminated. 

In all cases where the premises rented shall be sub-let, or the lease 
assigned, the landlord shall have the same right to enforce lien against 
such lessee or assignee, that he has against the tenant to whom the pre- 
mises were rented. 

When a tenant abandons or removes from the premises or any part 
thereof, the landlord, or his agent or attorney, may seize upon any grain 
or other crops grown or growing upon the premises, or part thereof so 
abandoned, whether the rent is due or not. If such grain, or other crops, 
or any part thereof, is not fully grown or matured, the landlord, or his 
agent or attorney, shall cause the same to be properly cultivated, harvested 
or gathered, and may sell the same, and from the proceeds pay all his 
labor, expenses and rent. The tenant may, before the sale of such pro- 
perty, redeem the same by tendering the rent and reasonable compensation 
for work done, or he may replevy the same. 

Exemption. — The same articles of personal property which are bylaw 
exempt from execution, except the crops as above stated, is also exempt 
from distress for rent. 

If any tenant is about to or shall permit or attempt to sell and 
remove from the premises, without the consent of his landlord, such 
portion of the crops raised thereon as will endanger the lien of the land- 
lord upon such crops, for the rent, it shall be lawful for the landlord to 
distress before rent is due. 



142 ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 



LIENS. 

Any person who shall by contract, express or implied, or partly both,, 
with the owner of any lot or tract of land, furnish labor or material, or 
services as an architect or superintendent, in building, altering, repairing 
or ornamenting any house or other building or appurtenance thereto on. 
such lot, or upon any street or alley, and connected with such improve- 
ments, shall have a lien upon the whole of such lot or tract of land, and 
upon such house or building and appurtenances, for the amount due to 
him for such labor, material or services. If the contract is expressed, and 
the time for the completion of the work is beyond three years from the com- 
mencement thereof ; or, if the time of payment is beyond one year from 
the time stipulated for the completion of the work, then no lien exists. 
If the contract is implied, then no lien exists, unless the work be done or 
material is furnished within one year from the commencement of the work 
or delivery of the materials. As between different creditors having liens, 
no preference is given to the one whose contract was first made ; but each 
shares pro-rata. Incumbrances existing on the lot or tract of the land at 
the time the contract is made, do not operate on the improvements, and 
are only preferred to the extent of the value of the land at the time of 
making the contract. The above lien can not be enforced unless suit is 
commenced within six months after the last payment for labor or materials 
shall have become due and payable. Sub-contractors, mechanics, workmen 
and other persons furnishing any material, or performing any labor for a 
contractor as before specified, have a lien to the extent of the amount due 
the contractor at the time the following notice is served upon the owner 
of the land who made the contract: 

To , You are hereby notified, that I have been employed by- 



(here state whether to labor or furnish material, and substantially the 
nature of the demand) upon your (here state in general terms description 
and situation of building), and that I shall hold the (building, or as the 
case may be), and your interest in the ground, liable for the amount that 

may (is or may become) due me on account thereof. Signature, 

Date, 

If there is a contract in writing between contractor and sub-contractor, 
a copy of it should be served with above notice, and said notice must be 
served within forty days from the completion of such sub-contract, if there 
is one ; if not, then from the time payment should have been made to the 
person performing the labor or furnishing the material. If the owner is 
not a resident of the county, or can not be found therein, then the above 
notice must be filed with the clerk of the Circuit Court, with his fee, fifty 
cents, and a copy of said notice must be published in a newspaper pub- 
lished in the county, for four successive weeks. 



ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 143 

"When the owner or agent is notified as above, he can retain any 
money due the contractor sufficient to pay such claim ; if more than one 
claim, and not enough to pay all, they are to be paid pro rata. 

The owner has the right to demand in writing, a statement of the 
contractor, of what he owes for labor, etc., from time to time as the work 
progresses, and on his failure to comply, forfeits to the owner $50 for 
every offense. 

The liens referred to cover any and all estates, whether in fee for 
life, for years, or any other interest which the owner may have. 

To enforce the lien of sub-contractors, suit must be commenced within 
three months from the time of the performance of the sub-contract, or 
during the work or furnishing materials. 

Hotel, inn and boarding-house keepers, have a lien upon the baggage 
and other valuables of their guests or boarders, brought into such hotel, 
inn or boarding-house, by their guests or boarders, for the proper charges 
due from such guests or boarders for their accommodation, board and 
lodgings, and such extras as are furnished at their request. 

Stable-keepers and other persons have a lien upon the horses, car- 
riages and harness kept by them, for the proper charges due for the keep- 
ing thereof and expenses bestowed thereon at the request of the owner 
or the person having the possession of the same. 

Agisters (persons who take care of cattle belonging to others), and 
persons keeping, yarding, feeding or pasturing domestic animals, shall 
have a lien upon the animals agistered, kept, yarded or fed, for the proper 
charges due for such service. 

All persons who may furnish any railroad corporation in this state 
with fuel, ties, material, supplies or any other article or thing necessary 
for the construction, maintenance, operation or repair of its road by con- 
tract, or may perform work or labor on the same, is entitled to be paid as 
part of the current expenses of the road, and have a lien upon all its pro- 
perty. Sub-contractors or laborers have also a lien. The conditions and 
limitations both as to contractors and sub-contractors, are about the same 
as herein stated as to general liens. 

DEFINITION OF COMMERCIAL TERMS. 

$ means dollars, being a contraction of U. S., which was formerly 

placed before any denomination of money, and meant, as it means now, 
United States Currency. 

£ means pounds, English money. 

@ stands for at or to. lb for pound, and bbl. for barrel; ^ for per or 
by the. Thus, Butter sells at 20@30c f lb, and Flour at $8@12 f bbl. 

fo for per cent and # for number. 

May 1. — Wheat sells at $1.20@1.25, "seller June." Seller June 



144 ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 

means that the person who sells the wheat has the privilege of delivering 
it at any time during the month of June. 

Selling short, is contracting to deliver a certain amount of grain or 
stock, at a fixed price, within a certain length of time, when the seller 
has not the stock on hand. It is for the interest of the person selling 
"short," to depress the market as much as possible, in order that he may 
buy and fill his contract at a profit. Hence the " shorts " are termed 
" bears." 

Buying long, is to contract to purchase a certain amount of grain or 
shares of stock at a fixed price, deliverable within a stipulated time, 
expecting to make a profit by the rise of prices.. The "longs" are 
termed "bulls," as it is for their interest to " operate " so as to "toss" 
the prices upward as much as possible. 

NOTES. 

Form of note is legal, worded in the simplest way, so that the 
amount and time of payment are mentioned. 

1100. Chicago, 111., Sept. 15, 1876. 

Sixty days from date I promise to pay to E. F. Brown, 
or order, One Hundred dollars, for value received. 

L. D. Lowry. 
A note to be payable in any thing else than money needs only the 
facts substituted for money in the above form. 

ORDERS. 

Orders should be worded simply, thus : 

Mr. F. H. Coats: Chicago, Sept. 15, 1876. 

Please pay to H. Birdsall, Twenty-five dollars, and charge to 

F. D. Silva. 

RECEIPTS. 

Receipts should always state when received and what for, thus: 

$100. Chicago, Sept. 15, 1876. 

Received of J. W. Davis, One Hundred dollars, for services 
rendered in grading his lot in Fort Madison, on account. 

Thomas Brady. 

If receipt is in full it should be so stated. 

SILLS OF PURCHASE. 

W. N. Mason, Salem, Illinois, Sept. 15, 1876. 

Bought of A. A. Graham. 
4 Bushels of Seed Wheat, at $1.50 - - - $6.00 

2 Seamless Sacks " .30 - - .60 



Received payment, $6.60 

A. A. Graham. 



ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 145 

ARTICLES OF AGREEMENT. 

An agreement is where one party promises to another to do a certain 
thing in a certain time for a stipulated sum. Good business men always 
reduce an agreement to writing, which nearly always saves misunder- 
standings and trouble. No particular form is necessary, but the facts must 
be clearly and explicitly stated, and there must, to make it valid, be a 
reasonable consideration. 

GENERAL FORM OF AGREEMENT. 

This Agreement, made the Second day of October, 1876, between 
John Jones, of Aurora, County of Kane, State of Illinois, of the first part, 
and Thomas Whiteside, of the same place, of the second part — 

Witnesseth, that the said John Jones, in consideration of the agree- 
ment of the party of the second part, hereinafter contained, contracts and 
agrees to and with the said Thomas Whiteside, that he will deliver, in 
good and marketable condition, at the Village of Batavia, 111., during the 
month of November, of this year, One Hundred Tons of Prairie Hay, in 
the following lots, and at the following specified times ; namely, twenty- 
five tons by the seventh of November, twenty-five tons additional by the 
fourteenth of the month, twenty-five tons more by the twenty -first, and 
the entire one hundred tons to be all delivered by the thirtieth of 
November. 

And the said Thomas Whiteside, in consideration of the prompt 
fulfillment of this contract, on the part of the party of the first part, 
contracts to and agrees with the said John Jones, to pay for said hay five 
dollars per ton, for each ton as soon as delivered. 

In case of failure of agreement by either of the parties hereto, it is 
hereby stipulated and agreed that the party so failing shall pay to the 
other, One Hundred Dollars, as fixed and settled damages. 

Id witness whereof, we have hereunto set our hands the day and 
year first above written. John Jones, 

Thomas Whiteside. 

AGREEMENT WITH CLERK FOR SERVICES. 

This Agreement, made the first day of May, one thousand eight 
hundred and seventy-six, between Reuben Stone, of Chicago, County 
of Cook, State of Illinois, party of the first part, and George Barclay, of 
Englewood, County of Cook, State of Illinois, party of the second part — 

Witnesseth, that said George Barclay agrees faithfully and dili- 
gently to work as clerk and salesman for the said Reuben Stone, for 
and during the space of one year from the date hereof, should both 
live such length of time, without absenting himself from his occupation ; 



146 ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 

during which time he, the said Barclay, in the store of said Stone, of 
Chicago, will carefully and honestly attend, doing and performing all 
duties as clerk and salesman aforesaid, in accordance and in all respects 
as directed and desired by the said Stone. 

In consideration of which services, so to be rendered by the said 
Barclay, the said Stone agrees to pay to said Barclay the annual sum of 
one thousand dollars, payable in twelve equal monthly payments, each 
upon the last day of each month ; provided that all dues for days of 
absence from business by said Barclay, shall be deducted from the sum 
otherwise by the agreement due and payable by the said Stone to the said 
Barclay. 

Witness our hands. Reuben Stone. 

George Barclay. 

BILLS OF SALE. 

A bill of sale is a written agreement to another party, for a consider- 
ation to convey his right and interest in the personal property. The 
purchaser must take actual possession of the property. Juries have 
power to determine upon the fairness or unfairness of a bill of sale. 

COMMON FORM OF BILL OF SALE. 

"Know all Men by this instrument, that I, Louis Clay, of Princeton, 
Illinois, of the first part, for and in consideration of Five Hundred 
and Ten dollars, to me paid by John Floyd, of the same place, of the 
second part, the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged, have sold, and 
by this instrument do convey unto the said Floyd, party of the second 
part, his executors, administrators, and assigns, my undivided half of 
ten acres of corn, now growing on the farm of Thomas Tyrrell, in the 
town above mentioned ; one pair of horses, sixteen sheep, and five cows, 
belonging to me, and in my possession at the farm aforesaid ; to have and 
to hold the same unto the party of the second part, his executors and 
assigns, forever. And I do, for myself and legal representatives, agree 
with the said party of the second part, and his legal representatives, to 
warrant and defend the sale of the afore-mentioned property and chattels 
unto the said party of the second part, and his legal representatives, 
against all and every person whatsoever. 

In witness whereof, I have hereunto affixed my hand, this tenth day 
of October, one thousand eight hundred and seventy-six. 

Louis Clay. 

BONOS. 

A bond is a written admission on the part of the maker in which he 
pledges a certain sum to another, at a certain time. 



ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 147 

COMMON FORM OF BOND. 

Know all Men by this instrument, that I, George Edgerton, of 
Watseka, Iroquois County, State of Illinois, am firmly bound unto Peter 
Kirch off, of the place aforesaid, in the sum of five hundred dollars, to be 
paid to the said Peter Kirchoff, or his legal representatives ; to which 
payment, to be made, I bind myself, or my legal representatives, by this 
instrument. 

Sealed with my seal, and dated this second day of November, one 
thousand eight hundred and sixty-four. 

The condition of this bond is such that if I, George Edgerton, my 
heirs, administrators, or executors, shall promptly pay the sum of two 
hundred and fifty dollars in three equal annual payments from the date 
hereof, with annual interest, then the above obligation to be of no effect ; 
otherwise to be in full force and valid. 
Sealed and delivered in 

presence of George Edgerton. [l.s.] 

William Turner. 

CHATTEL MORTGAGES. 

A chattel mortgage is a mortgage on personal property for payment 
of a certain sum of money, to hold the property against debts of other 
creditors. The mortgage must describe the property, and must be 
acknowledged before a justice of the peace in the township or precinct 
where the mortgagee resides, and entered upon his docket, and must be 
recorded in the recorder's office of the county. 

GENERAL FORM OF CHATTEL MORTGAGE. 

This Indenture, made and entered into this first day of January, 
in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and seventy-five, 
between Theodore Lottinville, of the town of Geneseo in the County 
of Henry, and State of Illinois, party of the first part, and Paul Henshaw, 
of the same town, county, and State, party of the second part. 

Witnesseth, that the said party of the first part, for and in consider- 
ation of the sum of one thousand dollars, in hand paid, the receipt whereof 
is hereby acknowledged, does hereby grant, sell, convey, and confirm unto 
the said party of the second part, his heirs and assigns forever, all and 
singular the following described goods and chattels, to wit : 

Two three-year old roan-colored horses, one Burdett organ, No. 987, 
one Brussels carpet, 15x20 feet in size, one marble-top center table, one 
Home Comfort cooking stove, No. 8, one black walnut bureau with mirror 
attached, one set of parlor chairs (six in number), upholstered in green 
rep, with lounge corresponding with same in style and color of upholstery.- 
now in possession of said Lottinville, at No. 4 Prairie Ave., Geneseo, 111. ; 



148 ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 

Together with all and singular, the appurtenances thereunto belong- 
ing, or in any wise appertaining ; to have and to hold the above described 
goods and chattels, unto the said party of the second part, his heirs and 
assigns, forever. 

Provided, always, and these presents are upon this express condition, 
that if the said Theodore Lottinville, his heirs, executors, administrators, 
or assigns, shall, on or before the first day of January, A.D., one thousand 
eight hundred and seventy-six, pay, or cause to be paid, to the said Paul 
Ranslow, or his lawful attorney or attorneys, heirs, executors, adminis- 
trators, or assigns, the sum of One Thousand dollars, together with the 
interest that may accrue thereon, at the rate of ten per cent, per annum, 
from the first day of January, A.D. one thousand eight hundred and 
seventy-five, until paid, according to the tenor of one promissory note 
bearing even date herewith for the payment of said sum of money, that 
then and from thenceforth, these presents, and everything herein con- 
tained, shall cease, and be null and void, anything herein contained to the 
contrary notwithstanding. 

Provided, also, that the said Theodore Lottinville may retain the 
possession of and have the use of said goods and chattels until the day 
of payment aforesaid ; and also, at his own expense, shall keep said goods 
and chattels; and also at the expiration of said time of payment, if said 
sum of money, together with the interest as aforesaid, shall not be paid, 
shall deliver up said goods and chattels, in good condition, to said Paul 
Ranslow, or his heirs, executors, administrators, or assigns. 

And provided, also, that if default in payment as aforesaid, by said 
party of the first part, shall be made, or if said party of the second part 
shall at any time before said promissory note becomes due, feel himself 
unsafe or insecure, that then the said party of the second part, or his 
attorney, agent, assigns, or heirs, executors, or administrators, shall have 
the right to take possession of said goods and chattels, wherever they 
may or can be found, and sell the same at public or private sale, to the 
highest bidder for cash in hand, after giving ten days' notice of the time 
and place of said sale, together with a description of the goods and chat- 
tels to be sold, by at least four advertisements, posted up in public places 
in the vicinity where said sale is to take place, and proceed to make the 
sum of money and interest promised as aforesaid, together with all reason- 
able costs, charges, and expenses in so doing ; and if there shall be any 
overplus, shall pay the same without delay to the said party of the first 
part, or his legal representatives. 

In testimony whereof, the said party of the first part has hereunto 
set his hand and affixed his seal, the day and year first above written. 
Signed, sealed and delivered in 

presence of Theodore Lottinville. [l.s.] 

Samuel J. Tilden. 



ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 149 



LEASE OF FARM AND BUILDINGS THEREON. 

This Indenture, made this second day of June, 1875, between David 
Patton of the Town of Bisbee, State of Illinois, of the first part, and John 
Doyle of the same place, of the second part, 

Witnesseth, that the said David Patton, for and in consideration of 
the covenants hereinafter mentioned and reserved, on the part of the said 
John Doyle, his executors, administrators, and assigns, to be paid, kept, 
and performed, hath let, and by these presents doth grant, demise, and 
let, unto the said John Doyle, his executors, administrators, and assigns, 
all that parcel of land situate in Bisbee aforesaid, bounded and described 
as follows, to wit : 

\Sere describe the land.~\ 

Together with all the appurtenances appertaining thereto. To have 
and to hold the said premises, with appurtenances thereto belonging, unto 
the said Doyle, his executors, administrators, and assigns, for the term of 
five years, from the first day of October next following, at a yearly rent 
of Six Hundred dollars, to be paid in equal payments, semi-annually, as 
long as said buildings are in good tenantable condition. 

And the said Doyle, by these presents, covenants and agrees to pay 
all taxes and assessments, and keep in repair all hedges, ditches, rail, and 
other fences ; (the said David Patton, his heirs, assigns and administra- 
tors, to furnish all timber, brick, tile, and other materials necessary for 
such repairs.) 

Said Doyle further covenants and agrees to apply to said land, in a 
farmer-like manner, all manure and compost accumulating upon said 
farm, and cultivate all the arable land in a husbandlike manner, accord- 
ing to the usual custom among farmers in the neighborhood ; he also 
agrees to trim the hedges at a seasonable time, preventing injury from 
cattle to such hedges, and to all fruit and other trees on the said premises. 
That he will seed down with clover and timothy seed twenty acres yearly 
of arable land, ploughing the same number of acres each Spring of land 
now in grass, and hitherto unbroken. 

It is further agreed, that if the said Doyle shall fail to perform the 
whole or any one of the above mentioned covenants, then and in that 
case the said David Patton may declare this lease terminated, by giving 
three months' notice of the same, prior to the first of October of any 
year, and may distrain any part of the stock, goods, or chattels, or other 
property in possession of said Doyle, for sufficient to compensate for the 
non-performance of the above written covenants, the same to be deter- 
mined, and amounts so to be paid to be determined, by three arbitrators, 
chosen as follows : Each of the parties to this instrument to choose one, 



150 ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 

and the two so chosen to select a third ; the decision of said arbitrators 
to be final. 

In witness whereof, we have hereto set our hands and seals. 
Signed, sealed, and delivered 

in presence of David Patton. [l.s.] 

James Waldron. John Doyle. [l.s.] 

FORM OF LEASE OF A HOUSE. 

This Instrument, made the first day of October, 1875, witnesseth 
that Amos Griest of Yorkville, County of Kendall, State of Illinois, hath 
rented from Aaron Young of Logansport aforesaid, the dwelling and lot 
No. 13 Ohio Street, situated in said City of Yorkville, for five years 
from the above date, at the yearly rental of Three Hundred dollars, pay- 
able monthly, on the first day of each month, in advance, at the residence 
of said Aaron Young. 

At the expiration of said above mentioned term, the said Griest 
agrees to give the said Young peaceable possession of the said dwelling, 
in as good condition as when taken, ordinary wear and casualties excepted. 

In witness whereof, we place our hands and seals the day and year 
aforesaid. 

Signed, sealed and delivered Amos Griest. [l.s.] 

in presence of 

NlCKOLAS SCHUTZ, AARON YOUNG. [L.S.] 

Notary Public. 

LANDLORD'S AGREEMENT. 

This certifies that I have let and raited, this first day of January, 
1876, unto Jacob Schmidt, my house and lot, No. 15 Erie Street, in the 
City of Chicago, State of Illinois, and its appurtenances ; he to have the 
free and uninterrupted occupation thereof for one year from this date, at 
the yearly rental of Two Hundred dollars, to be paid monthly in advance ; 
tent to cease if destroyed by fire, or otherwise made untenantable. 

Peter Funk. 
TENANT'S AGREEMENT. 

This certifies that I have hired and taken from Peter Funk, his 
house and lot, No. 15 Erie Street, in the City of Chicago, State of Illi- 
nois, with appurtenances thereto belonging, for one year, to commence 
this day, at a yearly rental of Two Hundred dollars, to be paid monthly 
in advance ; unless said house becomes untenantable from fire or other 
causes, in which case rent ceases ; and I further agree to give and yield 
said premises one year from this first day of January 1876, in as good 
oondition as now, ordinary wear and damage by the elements excepted. 

Given under my hand this day. Jacob Schmidt. 



ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 15 1 

NOTICE TO QUIT. 

To F. W. Arlen, 

Sir : Please observe that the term of one year, for which the house 
and land, situated at No. 6 Indiana Street, and now occupied by you, 
were rented to you, expired on the first day of October, 1875, and as I 
desire to repossess said premises, you are hereby requested and required 

to vacate the same. Respectfully Yours, 

P. T. Barnum. 
Lincoln, Neb., October 4, 1875. 

TENANT'S NOTICE OF LEAVING. 

Dear Sir: 

The premises I now occupy as your tenant, at No. 6 Indiana Street, 
I shall vacate on the first day of November, 1875. You will please take 
notice accordingly. 

Dated this tenth day of October, 1875. F. W. Arlen. 

To P. T. Barnum, Esq. 

REAL ESTATE MORTGAGE TO SECURE PAYMENT OF MONEY. 

This Indenture, made this sixteenth day of May, in the year of 
our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and seventy-two, between William 
Stocker, of Peoria, County of Peoria, and State of Illinois, and 011a, his 
wife, party of the first part, and Edward Singer, party of the second part. 

Whereas, the said party of the first part is justly indebted to the said 
party of the second part, in the sum of Two Thousand dollars, secured 
to be paid by two certain promissory notes (bearing even date herewith) 
the one due and payable at the Second National Bank in Peoria, Illinois, 
with interest, on the sixteenth day of May, in the year one thousand eight 
hundred and seventy-three ; the other due and payable at the Second 
National Bank at Peoria, 111., with interest, on the sixteenth day of May, 
in the year one thousand eight hundred and seventj^-four. 

Now, therefore, this indenture witnesseth, that the said party of the 
first part, for the better securing the payment of the money aforesaid, 
with interest thereon, according to the tenor and effect of the said two 
promissory notes above mentioned ; and, also in consideration of the fur- 
ther sum of one dollar to them in hand paid by the said party of the sec- 
ond part, at the delivery of these presents, the receipt whereof is hereby 
acknowledged, have granted, bargained, sold, and conveyed, and by these 
presents do grant, bargain, sell, and convey, unto the said party of the 
second part, his heirs and assigns, forever, all that certain parcel of land, 
situate, etc. 

[Describing the premises.] 

To have and to hold the same, together with all and singular the 
Tenements, Hereditaments, Privileges and Appurtenances thereunto 



152 ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 

belonging or in any wise appertaining. And also, all the estate, interest, 
and claim whatsoever, in law as well as in equity which the party of 
the first part have in and to the premises hereby conveyed unto the said 
party of the second part, his heirs and assigns, and to their only proper 
use, benefit and behoof. And the said William Stocker, and Olla, his 
wife, party of the first part, hereby expressly waive, relinquish, release, 
and conve} 7, unto the said party of the second part, his heirs, executors, 
administrators, and assigns, all right, title, claim, interest, and benefit 
whatever, in and to the above described premises, and each and every 
part thereof, which is given bj r or results from all laws of this state per- 
taining to the exemption of homesteads. 

Provided always, and these presents are upon this express condition, 
that if the said party of the first part, their heirs, executors, or adminis- 
trators, shall well and truly pay, or cause to be paid, to the said party of 
the second part, his heirs, executors, administrators, or assigns, the afore- 
said sums of money, with such interest thereon, at the time and in the 
manner specified in the above mentioned promissory notes, according to 
the true intent and meaning thereof, then in that case, these presents and 
every thing herein expressed, shall be absolutely null and void. 

In witness whereof, the said party of the first part hereunto set their 
hands and seals the day and year first above written. 
Signed, sealed and delivered in presence of 

James Whitehead, William Stocker. [l.s.] 

Fred. Samuels. Olla Stocker. [l.s.] 

WARRANTY DEED WITH COVENANTS. 

This Indenture, made this sixth day of April, in the year of our 
Lord one thousand eight hundred and seventy-two, between Henry Best 
of Lawrence, County of Lawrence, State of Illinois, and Belle, his wife, 
of the first part, and Charles Pearson of the same place, of the second part, 

Witnesseth, that the said party of the first part, for and in consideration 
of the sum of Six Thousand dollars in hand paid by the said party of the 
second part, the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged, have granted, 
bargained, and sold, and by these presents do grant, bargain, and sell, 
unto the said party of the second part, his heirs and assigns, all the fol- 
lowing described lot, piece, or parcel of land, situated in the City of Law- 
rence, in the County of Lawrence, and State of Illinois, to wit : 
[Here describe the property.'] 

Together with all and singular the hereditaments and appurtenances 
thereunto belonging or in any wise appertaining, and the reversion and 
reversions, remainder and remainders, rents, issues, and profits thereof; 
and all the estate, rignt, title, interest, claim, and demand whatsoever, of 
the said party of the nrst part, either in law or equity, of, in, and to tht» 



ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 153 

above bargained premises, with the hereditaments and appurtenances. 
To have and to hold the said premises above bargained and described, 
with the appurtenances, unto the said party of the second part, his heirs 
and assigns, forever. And the said Henry Best, and Belle, his wife, par- 
ties of the first part, hereby expressly waive, release, and relinquish unto 
the said party of the second part, his heirs, executors, administrators, and 
assigns, all right, title, claim, interest, and benefit whatever, in and to the 
above described premises, and each and every part thereof, which is given 
by or results from all laws of this state pertaining to the exemption of 
homesteads. 

And the said Henry Best, and Belle, his wife, party of the first 
part, for themselves and their heirs, executors, and administrators, do 
covenant, grant, bargain, and agree, to and with the said party of the 
second part, his heirs and assigns, that at the time of the ensealing and 
delivery of these presents they were well seized of the premises above 
conveyed, as of a good, sure, perfect, absolute, and indefeasible estate of 
inheritance in law, and in fee simple, and have good right, full power, 
and lawful authority to grant, bargain, sell, and convey the same, in 
manner and form aforesaid, and that the same are free and clear from all 
former and other grants, bargains, sales, liens, taxes, assessments, and 
encumbrances of what kind or nature soever ; and the above bargained 
premises in the quiet and peaceable possession of the said party of the 
second part, his heirs and assigns, against all and every person or persons 
lawfully claiming or to claim the whole or any part thereof, the said party 
of the first part shall and will warrant and forever defend. 

In testimony whereof, the said parties of the first part have hereunto 
set their hands and seals the day and year first above written. 
Signed, sealed and delivered 

in presence of Henry Best, [l.s.] 

Jerry Linklater. Belle Best. [l.s.] 

QUIT-CLAIM DEED. 

This Indenture, made the eighth day of June, in the year of our 
Lord one thousand eight hundred and seventy-four, between David Tour, 
of Piano, County of Kendall, State of Illinois, party of the first part, 
and Larry O'Brien, of the same place, party of the second part, 

Witnesseth, that the said party of the first part, for and in considera- 
tion of Nine Hundred dollars in hand paid by the said party of the sec- 
ond part, the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged, and the said party 
of the second part forever released and discharged therefrom, has remised, 
released, sold, conveyed, and quit-claimed, and by these presents does 
remise, release, sell, convey, and quit-claim, unto the said party of the 
second part, his heirs and assigns, forever, all the right, title, interest, 



154 ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 

claim, and demand, which the said party of the first part has in and to 
the following described lot, piece, or parcel of land, to wit : 

[Here describe the land .] 

To have and to hold the same, together with all and singular the 
appurtenances and privileges thereunto belonging, or in any wise there- 
unto appertaining, and all the estate, right, title, interest, and claim 
whatever, of the said party of the first part, either in law or equity, to 
the only proper use, benefit, and behoof of the said party of the second 
part, his heirs and assigns forever. 

In witness whereof the said party of the first part hereunto set his 
hand and seal the day and year above written. 

Signed, sealed and delivered David Tour, [l.s.] 

in presence of 
Thomas Ashley. 

The above forms of Deeds and Mortgage are such as have heretofore 
been generally used, but the following are much shorter, and are made 
equally valid by the laws of this state. 

WARRANTY DEED. 

The grantor (here insert name or names and place of residence), for 
and in consideration of (here insert consideration) in hand paid, conveys 
and warrants to (here insert the grantee's name or names) the following- 
described real estate (here insert description), situated in the County of 
in the State of Illinois. 

Dated this day of A. D. 18 . 

QUIT CLAIM DEED. 

The grantor (here insert grantor's name or names and place of resi- 
dence), for the consideration of (here insert consideration) convey and 
quit-claim to (here insert grantee's name or names) all interest in the 
following described real estate (here insert description), situated in the 
County of in the State of Illinois. 

Dated this day of A. D. 18' . 

MORTGAGE. 

The mortgagor (here insert name or names) mortgages and warrants 
to (here insert name or names of mortgagee or mortgagees), to secure the 
payment of (here recite the nature and amount of indebtedness, showing 
when due and the rate of interest, and whether secured by note or other- 
wise), the following described real estate (here insert description thereof), 
situated in the County of in the State of Illinois. 

Dated this day of A. D. 18 . 

RELEASE. 

Know all Men by these presents, that I, Peter Ahlund, of Chicago, 
of the County of Cook, and State of Illinois, for and in consideration of 
One dollar, to me in hand paid, and for other gooc] and valuable considera- 



ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 15. r > 

tions, the receipt whereof is hereby confessed, do hereby grant, bargain, 
remise, convey, release, and quit-claim unto Joseph Carlin of Chicago, 
of the County of Cook, and State of Illinois, all the right, title, interest, 
claim, or demand whatsoever, I may have acquired in, through, or by a 
certain Indenture or Mortgage Deed, bearing date the second day of Jan- 
uary, A. D. 1871, and recorded in the Recorder's office of said county, 
in book A of Deeds, page 46, to the premises therein described, and which 
said Deed was made to secure one certain promissory note, bearing even 
date with said deed, for the sum of Three Hundred dollars. 

Witness my hand and seal, this second day of November, A. D. 1874. 

Peter Ahlund. [l.s.] 

State of Illinois, ) 

Cook County. \ I, George Saxton, a Notary Public in 

and for said county, in the state aforesaid, do hereby 

certify that Peter Ahlund, personally known to me 

as the same person whose name is subscribed to the 

foregoing Release, appeared before me this day in 

[ vt ^BAL. Xi ] person, and acknowledged that he signed, sealed, and 

delivered the said instrument of writing as his free 

and voluntary act, for the uses and purposes therein 

set forth. 

Giv*m under my hand and seal, this second day of 
November, A. D. 1874. 

George Saxton, N. P. 

GENERAL FOJrM OF WILL FOR REAL AND PERSONAL PROPERTY. 

I, Charles Mansfield, of the Town of Salem, County of Jackson, 
Scate of Illinois, being aware of the uncertainty of life, and in failing 
health, but of sound mind and memory, do make and declare this to be 
my last will and testament, in manner following, to wit: 

First. I give, devise and bequeath unto my oldest son, Sidney H. 
Mansfield, the sum of Two Thousand Dollars, cf bank stock, now in the 
Third National Bank of Cincinnati, Ohio, and the farm owned by myself 
in the Town of Buskirk, consisting of one hundred and sixty acres, with 
all the houses, tenements, and improvements thereunto belonging ; to 
have and to hold unto my said son, his heirs and assign^, forever. 

Second. I give, devise and bequeath to each of my daughters, Anna 
Louise Mansfield and Ida Clara Mansfield, each Two Thousand dollars in 
bank stock, in the Third National Bank of Cincinnati, Ohio, and also each 
one quarter section of land, owned by myself, situated in the Town of 
Lake, Illinois, and recorded in my name in the Recorder's office in the 
county where such land is located. The north one hundred and sixty 
acres of said half section is devised to mv eldest daughter, Anna Louise. 



156 ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 

Third. I give, devise and bequeath to my son, Frank Alfred Mans- 
field, Five shares of Railroad stock in the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, 
and my one hundred and sixty acres of land and saw mill thereon, situ- 
ated in Manistee, Michigan, with all the improvements and appurtenances 
thereunto belonging, which said real estate is recorded in my name in the 
county where situated. 

Fourth. I give to my wife, Victoria Elizabeth Mansfield, all my 
household furniture, goods, chattels, and personal property, about my 
home, not hitherto disposed of, including Eight Thousand dollars of bank 
stock in the Third National Bank of Cincinnati, Ohio, Fifteen shares in 
the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, and the free and unrestricted use, pos- 
session, and benefit of the home farm, so long as she may live, in lieu of 
dower, to which she is entitled by law ; said farm being my present place 
of residence. 

Fifth. I bequeath to ray invalid father, Elijah H. Mansfield, the 
income from rents of my store building at 145 Jackson Street, Chicago, 
Illinois, during the term of his natural life. Said building and land there- 
with to revert to my said sons and daughters in equal proportion, upon 
the demise of my said father. 

Sixth. It is also my will and desire that, at the death of my wife, 
Victoria Elizabeth Mansfield, or at any time when she may arrange to 
relinquish her life interest in the above mentioned homestead, the same 
may revert to my above named children, or to the lawful heirs of each. 

And lastly. I nominate and appoint as executors of this my last will 
and testament, my wife, Victoria Elizabeth Mansfield, and my eldest son, 
Sidney H. Mansfield. 

I further direct that my debts and necessary funeral expenses shad 
be paid from moneys now on deposit in the Savings Bank of Salem, the 
residue of such moneys to revert to my wife, Victoria Elizabeth Mansfield, 
for her use forever. 

In witness whereof, I, Charles Mansfield, to this my last will and 
testament, have hereunto set my hand and seal, this fourth day of April, 
eighteen hundred and seventy-two. 

Signed, sealed, and declared by Charles 

Mansfield, as and for his last will and 

testament, in the presence of us, who, 

at his request, and in his presence, and 

in the presence of each other, have sub- )> 

scribed our names hereunto as witnesses 

thereof. 
Peter A. Schenck, Sycamore, Ills. 
Frank E. Dent, Salem, Ills. 



Charles Mansfield, [l.s.] 



Charles Mansfield, [l.s.] 



ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 157 

CODICIL 

Whereas I, Charles Mansfield, did, on the fourth day of April, one 
thousand eight hundred and seventy-two, make my last will and testa- 
ment, I do now, by this writing, add this codicil to my said will, to be 
taken as a part thereof. 

Whereas, by the dispensation of Providence, my daughter, Anna 
Louise, has deceased November fifth, eighteen hundred and seventy-three, 
and whereas, a son has been born to me, which son is now christened 
Richard Albert Mansfield, I give and bequeath unto him my gold watch, 
and all right, interest, and title in lands and bank stock and chattels 
bequeathed to my deceased daughter, Anna Louise, in the body of this will. 

In witness whereof, I hereunto place my hand and seal, this tenth 
day of March, eighteen hundred and seventy-five. 

Signed, sealed, published, and declared to N 

us by the testator, Charles Mansfield, as 

and for a codicil to be annexed to his 

last will and testament. And we, at 

his request, and in his presence, and in 

the presence of each other, have sub- 
scribed our names as witnesses thereto, 

at the date hereof. 
Frank E. Dent, Salem, Ills. 
John C. Shay, Salem, Ills. 

CHURCH ORGANIZATIONS 

May be legally made by electing or appointing, according to the usages 
or customs of the body of which it is a part, at any meeting held for that 
purpose, two or more of its nfembers as trustees, wardens or vestrymen, and 
may adopt a corporate name. The chairman or secretary of such meeting 
shall, as soon as possible, make and file in the office of the recorder of 
deeds of the county, an affidavit substantially in the following form : 
State of Illinois, 



> 



Countv 



I, , do solemnly swear (or affirm, as the case may be), 

that at a meeting of the members of the (here insert the name of the 
church, society or congregation as known before organization), held at 

(here insert place of meeting), in the County of , and State of 

Illinois, on the day of , A.D. 18 — , for that purpose, the fol- 
lowing persons were elected (or appointed) [here insert their names] 
trustees, wardens, vestrymen, (or officers by whatever name they may 
choose to adopt, with powers similar to trustees) according to the rules 
and usages of such (church, society or congregation), and said 



158 ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 

adopted as its corporate name (here insert name), and at said meeting 
this affiant acted as (chairman or secretary, as the case may be). 

Subscribed and sworn to before me, this day of , A.D. 

18—. ■ Name of Affiant" 

which affidavit must be recorded by the recorder, and shall be, or a certi- 
fied copy made by the recorder, received as evidence of such an incorpo- 
ration. 

No certificate of election after the first need be filed for record. 

The term of office of the trustees and the general government of the 
society can be determined by the rules or by-laws adopted. Failure to 
elect trustees at the time provided does not work a dissolution, but the 
old trustees hold over. A trustee or trustees may be removed, in the 
same manner by the society as elections are held by a meeting called for 
that purpose. The property of the society vests in the corporation. The 
corporation may hold, or acquire by purchase or otherwise, land not 
exceeding ten acres, for the purpose of the society. The trustees have 
the care, custody and control of the property of the corporation, and can, 
ivhen directed by the society, erect houses or improvements, and repair 
and alter the same, and may also when so directed by the society, 
mortgage, encumber, sell and convey any real or personal estate belonging 
to the corporation, and make all proper contracts in the name of such 
corporation. But they are prohibited by law from encumbering or inter- 
fering with any property so as to destroy the effect of any gift, grant, 
devise or bequest to the corporation ; but such gifts, grants, devises of 
bequests, must in all cases be used so as to carry out the object intended 
by the pe'rsons making the same. Existing societies may organize in the 
manner herein set forth, and have all the advantages thereof. 

SUGGESTIONS TO THOSE PURCHASING BOOKS BY SUBSCRIPTION. 

The business of publishing books by subscription having so often been 
brought into disrepute by agents making representations and declarations 
not authorized by the publisher ; in order to prevent that as much as possi- 
ble, and that there may be more general knowledge of the relation such 
agents bear to their principal, and the law governing such cases, the fol- 
lowing statement is made : 

A subscription is in the nature of a contract of mutual promises, by 
which the subscriber agrees to pay a certain sum for the work described ; 
the consideration is concurrent that the publisher shall publish the book 
named, and deliver the same, for which the subscriber is to pay the price 
named. The nature and character of the work is described in the prospectus 
and by the sample shown. These should be carefully examined before sub- 
scribing, as they are the basis and consideration of the promise to pay, 



ABSTRACT OF ILLINOIS STATE LAWS. 159 

and not the too often exaggerated statements of tithe agent, who is merely 
employed to solicit subscriptions, for which he is usually paid a commission 
for each subscriber, and has no authority to change or alter the conditions 
upon which the subscriptions are authorized to be made by the publisher. 
Should the agent assume to agree to make the subscription conditional or 
modify or change the agreement of the publisher, as set out by prospectus 
and sample, in order to bind the principal, the subscriber should see that 
such conditions or changes are stated over or in connection with his signa- 
ture, so that the publisher may have notice of the same. 

All persons making contracts in reference to matters of this kind, or 
any other business, should remember that the law as to written contracts is, 
that they can not be varied, altered or rescinded verbally, but if done at all, 
must be done in writing. It is therefore important that all persons contem- 
plating subscribing should distinctly understand that all talk before or after 
the subscription is made, is not admissible as evidence, and is no part of the 
contract. 

Persons employed to solicit subscriptions are known to the trade as 
canvassers. They are agents appointed to do a particular business in a 
prescribed mode, and have no authority to do it in any other way to the 
prejudice of their principal, nor can they bind their principal in any other 
matter. They can not collect money, or agree that payment may be made 
in anything else but money. They can not extend the time of payment 
beyond the time of delivery, nor bind their principal for the payment of 
expenses incurred in their buisness. 

It would save a great deal of trouble, and often serious loss, if persons, 
before signing their names to any subscription book, or any written instru- 
ment, would examine carefully what it is ; if they can not read themselves, 
should call on some one disinterested who can. 



1(50 CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES 



CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 
AND ITS AMENDMENTS. 

We, the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, 
establish justice, insure domestic tranquillity, provide for the common 
defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty 
to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution 
for the United States of America. 

Article I. 

Section 1. All legislative powers herein granted shall be vested in 
a Congress of the United States, which shall consist of a Senate and 
House of Representatives. 

Sec. 2. The House of Representatives shall be composed of mem- 
bers chosen every second year by the people of the several states, and the 
electors in each state shall have the qualifications requisite for electors of 
the most numerous branch of the State Legislature. 

No person shall be a representative who shall not have attained to the 
age of twenty-five years, and been seven years a citizen of the United 
States, and who shall not, when elected, be an inhabitant of that state in 
which he shall be chosen. 

Representatives and direct taxes shall be apportioned among the sev- 
eral states which may be included within this Union, according to their 
respective numbers, which shall be determined by adding to the whole 
number of free persons, including those bound to service for a term of 
years, and excluding Indians not taxed, three-fifths of all other persons. 
The actual enumeration shall be made within three years after the first 
meeting of the Congress of the United States, and within every subse- 
quent term of ten years, in such manner as they shall by law direct. The 
number of Representatives shall not exceed one for every thirty thousand, 
but each state shall have at least one Representative ; and until such 
enumeration shall be made the State of New Hampshire shall be entitled 
to choose three, Massachusetts eight, Rhode Island and Providence Plan- 
tations one, Connecticut five, New York six, New Jersey four, Pennsylva- 
nia eight, Delaware one, Maryland six, Virginia ten, North Carolina. five, 
and Georgia three. 

When vacancies happen in the representation from any state, the 
Executive authority thereof shall issue writs of election to fill such 
vacancies. 

The House of Representatives shall choose their Speaker and other 
officers, and shall have the sole power of impeachment. 

Sec. 3. The Senate of the United Stafes shall be composed of two 
Senators from each state, chosen by the Legislature thereof for six years ; 
and each Senator shall have one vote. 

Immediately after they shall be assembled in consequence of the first 
election, they shall be divided as equally as may be into three classes. 
The seats of the Senators of the first class shall be vacated at the expira- 



AND ITS AMENDMENTS. 161 

tion of the second year, of the second class at the expiration of the fourth 
year, and of the third class at the expiration of the sixth year, so that 
one-third may be chosen every second year; and if vacancies happen by 
resignation or otherwise, during the recess of the Legislature of any state, 
the Executive thereof may make temporary appointments until the next 
meeting of the Legislature, which shall then fill such vacancies. 

No person shall be a Senator who shall not have attained to the age 
of thirty years and been nine years a citizen of the United States, and 
who shall not, when elected, be an inhabitant of that state for which he 
shall be chosen. 

The Vice-President of the United States shall be President of the 
Senate, but shall have no vote unless they be equally divided. 

The Senate shall choose their other officers, and also a President pro 
tempore, in the absence of the Vice-President, or when he shall exercise 
the office of President of the United States. 

The Senate shall have the sole power to try all impeachments. When 
sitting for that purpose they shall be on oath or affirmation. When the 
President of the United States is tried the Chief Justice shall preside. 
And no person shall be convicted without the concurrence of two-thirds 
of the members present. 

Judgment, in cases of impeachment, shall not extend further than to 
removal from office, and disqualification to hold and enjoy any office of 
honor, trust, or profit under the United States ; but the party convicted 
shall nevertheless be liable and subject to indictment, trial, judgment, 
and punishment according to law. 

Sec. 4. The times, places and manner of holding elections for Sen- 
ators and Representatives shall be prescribed in each state by the Legis- 
lature thereof ; but the Congress may at any time by law make or alter 
such regulations, except as to the places of choosing Senators. 

The Congress shall assemble at least once in every year, and such 
meeting shall be on the first Monday in December, unless they shall by 
law appoint a different day. 

Sec. 5. Each house shall be the judge of the election, returns, and 
qualifications of its own members, and a majority of each shall constitute 
a quorum to do business; but a smaller number may adjourn from day to 
day, and may be authorized to compel the attendance of absent members 
in such manner and under such penalties as each house may provide. 

Each house may determine the rules of its proceedings, punish its 
members for disorderly behavior, and, with the concurrence of two-thirds, 
expel a member. 

Each house shall keep a journal of its proceedings, and from time to 
time publish the same, excepting such parts as may, in their judgment, 
require secrecy ; and the yeas and nays of the members of either house 
on any question shall, at the desire of one-fifth of those present, be entered 
on the journal. 

Neither house, during the session of Congress, shall, without the 
consent of the other, adjourn for more than three days, nor to any other 
place than that in which the two houses shall be sitting. 

Sec. 6. The Senators and Representatives shall receive a compen- 
sation for their services, to be ascertained by law, and paid out of the 
treasury of the United States. They shall in all cases, except treason. 



162 CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES 

felony, and breach of the peace, be privileged from arrest during their 
attendance at the session of their respective houses, and in going to and 
returning from the same ; and for any speech or debate in either house 
they shall not be questioned in any other place. 

No Senator or Representative shall, during the time for which he was 
elected, be appointed to any civil office under the authority of the United 
States, which shall have been created, or the emoluments whereof shall 
have been increased during such time ; and no person holding any office 
under the United States, shall be a member of either house during his 
continuance in office. 

Sec. 7. All bills for raising revenue shall originate in the House of 
Representatives ; but the Senate may propose or concur with amendments 
as on other bills. 

Every bill which shall have passed the House of Representatives and 
the Senate, shall, before it becomes a law, be presented to the President 
. the United States ; if he approve he shall sign it ; but if not he shall 
return it, with his objections, to that house in which it shall have origi- 
nated, who shall enter the objections at large on their journal, and 
proceed to reconsider it. If, after such reconsideration two-thirds of that 
house shall agree to pass the bill, it shall be sent, together with the objec- 
tions, to the other house, by which it shall likewise be reconsidered, and if 
approved by two-thirds of that house, it shall become a law. But in all 
such cases the votes of both houses shall be determined by yeas and nays, 
and the names of the persons voting for and against the bill shall be entered 
on the journal of each house respectively. If any bill shall not be returned 
by the President within ten days (Sundays excepted), after it shall have 
been presented to him, the same shall be a law, in like manner as if he 
had signed it, unless the Congress, by their adjournment, prevent its 
return, in which case it shall not be a law. 

Every order, resolution, or vote to which the concurrence of the 
Senate and House of Representatives may be necessary (except on a 
question of adjournment), shall be presented to the President of the 
United States, and before the same shall take effect shall be approved by 
him, or, being disapproved by him, shall be re-passed by two-thirds of 
the Senate and House of Representatives, according to the rules and lim- 
itations prescribed in the case of a bill. 

Sec. 8. The Congress shall have power — 

To lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts and excises, to pay the debts, 
and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United 
.States ; but all duties, imposts, and excises shall be uniform throughout 
the United States ; 

To borrow money on the credit of the United States ; 

To regulate commerce with foreign nations, and among the several 
States, and with the Indian tribes ; 

To establish a uniform rule of naturalization, and uniform laws on 
the subject of bankruptcies throughout the United States ; 

To coin money, regulate the value thereof, and of foreign coin, and 
fix the standard of weights and measures ; 

To provide for the punishment of counterfeiting the securities and 
current coin of the United States ; 

To establish post offices and post roads ; 



AND ITS AMENDMENTS. 163 

To promote the progress of sciences and useful arts, by securing, 
for limited times, to authors and inventors, the exclusive right to their 
respective writings and discoveries ; 

To constitute tribunals inferior to the Supreme Court ; 

To define and punish piracies and felonies committed on the high 
seas, and offenses against the law of nations ; 

To declare war, grant letters of marque and reprisal, and make rules 
concerning captures on land and water ; 

To raise and support armies, but no appropriation of money to that 
use shall be for a longer term than two years ; 

To provide and maintain a navy ; 

To make rules for the government and regulation of the land and 
naval forces ; 

To provide for calling forth the militia to execute the laws of the 
Union, suppress insurrections, and repel invasions ; 

To provide for organizing, arming and disciplining the militia, and 
for governing such part of them as may be employed in the service of the 
United States, reserving to the states respectively the appointment of the 
officers, and the authority of training the militia according to the disci- 
pline prescribed by Congress ; 

To exercise legislation in all cases whatsoever over such district (not 
exceeding ten miles square) as may, by cession of particular states, and the 
acceptance of Congress, become the seat of the government of the United 
States, and to exercise like authority over all places purchased by the 
consent of the Legislature of the state in which the same shall be, for 
the erection of forts, magazines, arsenals, dock yards, and other needful 
buildings ; and 

To make all laws which shall be necessary and proper for carrying 
intc execution the foregoing powers, and all other powers vested by this 
Constitution in the government of the United States, or in any depart- 
ment or officer thereof. 

Sec. 9. The migration or importation of such persons as any of the 
states now existing shall think proper to admit, shall not be prohibited 
by the Congress prior to the year one thousand eight hundred and eight, 
but a tax or duty may be imposed on such importation, not exceeding ten 
dollars for each person. 

The privilege of the writ of habeas corpus shall not be suspended, 
unless when in cases of rebellion or invasion the public safety may 
require it. 

No bill of attainder or ex post facto law shall be passed. 

No capitation or other direct tax shall be laid, unless in proportion 
to the census or enumeration hereinbefore directed to be taken. 

No tax or duty shall be laid on articles exported from any state. 

No preference shall be given by any regulation of commerce or rev- 
enue to the ports of one state over those of another; nor shall vessels 
bound to or from one state be obliged to enter, clear, or pay duties in 
another. 

No money shall be drawn from the Treasury, but in consequence of 
appropriations made by law; and a regular statement and account of 
the receipts and expeditures of all public money shall be published from 
time to time. 



1(34 CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES 

No title of nobility shall be granted by the United States : and no 
person holding any office of profit or trust under them, shall, without the 
consent of the Congress, accept of any present, emolument, office, or title 
of any kind whatever, from any king, prince, or foreign state. 

Sec. 10. No state shall enter into any treaty, alliance, or confeder- 
ation ; grant letters of marque and reprisal ; coin money ; emit bills of 
credit ; make anything but gold and silver coin a tender in payment of 
debts ; pass any bill of attainder, ex post facto law, or law impairing the 
obligation of contracts, or grant any title of nobility. 

No state shall, without the consent of the Congress, lay any imposts 
or duties on imports or exports, except what may be absolutely necessary 
for executing its inspection laws, and the net produce of all duties and 
imposts laid by any state on imports or exports, shall be for the use of the 
Treasury of the United States ; and all such laws shall be subject to the 
revision and control of the Congress. 

No state shall, without the consent of Congress, lay any duty on 
tonnage, keep troops or ships of war in time of peace, enter into any 
agreement or compact with another state, or with a foreign power, or 
engage in war, unless actually invaded, or in such imminent danger as will 
not admit of delay. 

Article II. 

Section 1. The Executive power shall be vested in a President of 
the United States of America. He shall hold his office during the term 
of four years, and, together with the Vice-President chosen for the same 
term, be elected as follows : 

Each state shall appoint, in such manner as the Legislature thereof 
may direct, a number of Electors, equal to the whole number of Senators 
and Representatives to which the state may be entitled in the Congress ; 
but no Senator or Representative, or person holding an office of trust or 
profit under the United States, shall be appointed an Elector. 

[*The Electors shall meet in their respective states, and vote by 
ballot for two persons, of whom one at least shall not be an inhabitant of 
the same state with themselves. And they shall make a list of all the 
persons voted for, and of the number of votes for each ; which list they 
shall sign and certify, and transmit, sealed, to the seat of the government 
of the United States, directed to the President of the Senate. The Pres- 
ident of the Senate shall, in the presence of the Senate and House of Rep- 
resentatives, open all the certificates, and the votes shall then be counted. 
The person having the greatest number of votes shall be the President, 
if such number be a majority of the whole number of Electors appointed ; 
and if there be more than one who have such majority, and have an equal 
number of votes, then the House of Representatives shall immediately 
choose by ballot one of them for President ; and if no person have a ma- 
jority, then from the five highest on the list the said House shall in like 
manner choose the President. But in choosing the President, the vote 
shall be taken by states, the representation from each state having one 
vote ; a quorum for this purpose shall consist of a member or members 
from two-thirds of the states, and a majority of all the states shall be 
necessary to a choice. In every case, after the choice of the President, 

* This clause between, brackets has been superseded and annulled by the Twelfth.amendment. 



AND ITS AMENDMENTS. 165 

the person having the greatest number of votes of the Electors shall be 
the Vice-President. But if there should remain two or more who have 
equal votes, the Senate shall choose from them by ballot the Vice-Presi- 
dent.] 

The Congress may determine the time of choosing the Electors, and 
the day on which they shall give their votes ; which day shall be the same 
throughout the United States. 

No person except a natural born citizen, or a citizen of the United 
States at the time of the adoption of this Constitution, shall be eligible 
to the office of President ; neither shall any person be eligible to that 
office who shall not have attained the age of thirty-five years, and been 
fourteen years a resident within the United States. 

In case of the removal of the President from office, or of his death, 
resignation, or inability to discharge the powers and duties of the said 
office, the same shall devolve on the Vice-Pnesident, and the Congress 
may by law provide for the case of removal, death, resignation, or inabil- 
ity, both of the President and Vice-President, declaring what officer shall 
then act as President, and such officer shall act accordingly, until the dis- 
ability be removed, or a President shall be elected. 

The President shall, at stated times, receive for his services a com- 
pensation which shall neither be increased nor diminished during the 
period for which he shall have been elected, and he shall not receive 
within that period any other emolument from the United States or any of 
them. 

Before he enters on the execution of his office, he shall take the fol- 
, lowing oath or affirmation : 

" I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the 
office of President of the United States, and will, to the best of my ability, 
preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States." 

Sec. 2. The President shall be commander in chief of the army and 
navy of the United States, and of the militia of the several states, when 
called into the actual service of the United States; he may require the 
opinion, in writing, of the principal officer in each of the executive 
departments, upon any subject relating to the duties of their respective 
offices, and he shall have power to grant reprieves and pardon for offenses 
against the United States, except in cases of impeachment. 

He shall have power, by and with the advice and consent of the 
Senate, to make treaties, provided two-thirds of the Senators present con- 
cur; and he shall nominate, and by and with the advice of the Senate, 
shall appoint ambassadors, other public ministers and consuls, judges of 
the Supreme Court, and all other officers of the United States whose 
appointments are not herein otherwise provided for, and which shall be 
established by law ; but the Congress may by law vest the appointment 
of such inferior officers as they think proper in the President alone, in 
the courts of law, or in the heads of departments. 

The President shall have power to fill up all vacancies that may 
happen during the recess of the Senate, by granting commissions which 
shall expire at the end of their next session. 

Sec 3. He shall from time to time give to the Congress information 
of the state of the Union, and recommend to their consideration such mea- 
sures as he shall judge necessary and expedient ; he may on extraordinary 



166 CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES 

occasions convene both houses, or either of them, and in case of disagree- 
ment between them, with respect to the time of adjournment, he may 
adjourn them to such time as he shall think proper ; he shall receive 
ambassadors and other public ministers ; he shall take care that the laws be 
faithfully executed, and shall commission all the officers of the United 
States. 

Sec. 4. The President, Vice-President, and all civil officers of the 
United States, shall be removed from office on impeachment for, and con- 
viction of, treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors. 

Article III. 

Section I. The judicial power of the United States shall be vested 
in one Supreme Court, and such inferior courts as the Congress may from 
time to time ordain and establish. The Judges, both of the Supreme and 
inferior courts, shall hold their offices during good behavior, and shall, at 
stated times, receive for their services a compensation, which shall not be 
diminished during their continuance in office. 

Sec. 2. The judicial power shall extend to all cases, in law and 
equity, arising under this Constitution, the laws of the United States, and 
treaties made, or which shall be made, under their authority ; to all cases 
affecting ambassadors, other public ministers, and consuls ; to all cases of 
admiralty and maritime jurisdiction ; to controversies to which the United 
States shall be a party ; to controversies between two or more states ; 
between a state and citizens of another state ; between citizens of differ- 
ent states ; between citizens of the same state claiming lands under grants 
of different states, and between a state or the citizens thereof, and foreign 
states, citizens, or subjects. 

In all cases affecting ambassadors, other public ministers, and consuls, 
and those in which a state shall be a party, the Supreme Court shall have 
original jurisdiction. 

In all the other cases before mentioned, the Supreme Court shall 
have appellate jurisdiction, both as to law and fact, with such exceptions 
and under such regulations as the Congress shall make. 

The trial of all crimes, except in cases of impeachment, shall be by 
jury ; and such trial shall be held in the state where the said crimes shall 
have been committed ; but when not committed within an}' state, the 
trial shall be at such place or places as the Congress may by law have 
directed. 

Sec. 3. Treason against the United States shall consist only in levy- 
ing war against them, or in adhering to their enemies, giving them aid 
and comfort. No person shall be convicted of treason unless on the tes- 
timony of two witnesses to the same overt act, or on confession in open 
court. 

The Congress shall have power to declare the punishment of treason, 
but no attainder of treason shall work corruption of blood, or forfeiture, 
except during the life of the person attainted. 

Article IV. 

Section 1. Full faith and credit shall be given in each state to the 
public acts, records, and judicial proceedings of every other state. And 



AND ITS AMENDMENTS. 167 

the Congress may, by general laws, prescribe the manner in which such 
acts, records, and proceedings shall be proved, and the effect thereof. 

Sec. 2. The citizens of each state shall be entitled to all privileges 
and immunities of citizens in the several states. 

A person charged in any state with treason, felony, or other crime, 
who shall flee from justice and be found in another state, shall, on demand 
of the executive authority of the state from which he fled, be delivered 
up, to be removed to the state having jurisdiction of the crime. 

No person held to service or labor in one state, under the laws thereof 
escaping into another, shall, in consequence of any law or regulation 
therein, be discharged from such service or labor, but shall be delivered 
up on the claim of the party to whom such service or labor may be due. 

Sec. 3. New states may be admitted by the Congress into this Union ; 
but no new state shall be formed or erected within the jurisdiction of any- 
other state ; nor any state be formed by the junction of two or more states,, 
or parts of states, without the consent of the Legislatures of the states 
concerned, as well as of the Congress. 

The Congress shall have power to dispose of and make all needful, 
rules and regulations respecting the territory or other property belonging, 
to the United States ; and nothing in this Constitution shall be so construed 
as to prejudice any claims of the United States or of any particular state. 

Sec. 4. The United States shall guarantee to every state in this. 
Union a republican form of government, and shall protect each of them 
against invasion, and on application of the Legislature, or of the Execu- 
tive (when the Legislature can not be convened), against domestic vio- 
lence. 

Article V. 

The Congress, whenever two-thirds of both houses shall deem it 
necessary, shall propose amendments to this Constitution, or, on the ap- 
plication of the Legislatures of two-thirds of the several states, shall call 
a convention for proposing amendments, which, in either case, shall be 
valid to all intents and purposes as part of this Constitution, when rati- 
fied by the Legislatures of three fourths of the several states, or by con- 
ventions in three-fourths thereof, as the one or the other mode of ratifi- 
cation may be proposed by the Congress. Provided that no amendment 
which may be made prior to the year one thousand eight hundred and 
eight shall in any manner affect the first and fourth clauses in the ninth 
section of the first article ; and that no state, without its consent, shall 
be deprived of its equal suffrage in the Senate. 

Article VI. 

All debts contracted and engagements entered into before the adop- 
tion of this Constitution shall be as valid against the United States under 
this Constitution as under the Confederation. 

This Constitution, and the laws of the United States which shall be 
made in pursuance thereof, and all treaties made, or which shall be made, 
under the authority of the United States, shall be the supreme law of the 
land ; and the Judges in every state shall be bound thereby, anything in 
the Constitution or laws of any state to the contrary notwithstanding. 

The Senators and Representatives before mentioned, and the mem- 



168 



CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES 



bers of the several state Legislatures, and all executive and judicial offi- 
cers, both of the United States and of the several states, shall be bound 
by oath or affirmation to support this Constitution ; but no religious test 
shall ever be required as a qualification to any office or public trust under 
the United States. 

Article VII. 

The ratification of the Conventions of nine states shall be sufficient 
for the establishment of this Constitution between the states so ratifying 
the same. 

Done in convention by the unanimous consent of the states present, the 
seventeenth day of September, in the year of our Lord one thousand 
seven hundred and eighty-seven, and of the independence of the 
United States of America the twelfth. In witness whereof we have 
hereunto subscribed our names. 

GEO. WASHINGTON, 
President and Deputy from Virginia. 



New Hampshire. 
John Langdon, 
Nicholas Gilman. 

Massachusetts. 
Nathaniel Gorham, 
Rufus King. 

Connecticut. 
Wm. Sam'l Johnson, 
Roger, Sherman. 



Delaware. 
Geo. Read, 
John Dickinson, 
Jaco. Broom, 
Gunning Bedford, Jr., 
Richard Bassett. 

Maryland. 
James M'Henry, 
Danl. Carroll, 
Dan. of St. Thos. Jenifer. 



New York. 
Alexander Hamilton. 

New Jersey. 
Wil. Livingston, 
Wm. Paterson, 
David Brearley, 
Jona. Dayton. 



Virginia. 
John Blair, 
James Madison, Jr. 

North Carolina. 
Wm. Blount, 
Hu. Williamson, 
Rich'd Dobbs Spaight. 



Pennsylvania. 
B. Franklin, 
Robt. Morris, 
Thos. Fitzsimons, 
James Wilson, 
Thos. Mifflin, 
Geo. Clymer, 
Jared Ingersoll, 
Gouv. Morris. 



South Carolina. 
j. rutledge, 
Charles Pinckney, 
Chas. Cotesworth Pinckney, 
Pierce Butler. 

Ceorgia. 
William Few, 
Abr. Baldwin. 

WILLIAM JACKSON, Secretary. 



AND ITS AMENDMENTS. 169 



Articles in Addition to and Amendatory of the Constitution 
of the United States of America. 

Proposed by Congress and ratified by the Legislatures of the several states, 
pursuant to the fifth article of the original Constitution. 

Article I. 

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, 
or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of 
speech, or of the press ; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, 
and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. 

Article II. 

A well regulated militia being necessary to the security of a free 
state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed. 

Article III. 

No soldier shall, in time of peace, be quartered in any house without 
the consent of the owner, nor in time of war but in a manner to be pre- 
scribed by law. 

Article IV. 

The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, 
and effects against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be vio- 
lated ; and no warrants shall issue but upon probable cause, supported by 
oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched 
and the persons or things to be seized. 

Article V. 

No person shall be held to answer for a capital or otherwise infamous 
crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a Grand Jury, except in 
cases arising in the land or naval forces, or in the militia when in actual 
service in time of war or public danger ; nor shall any person be subject 
for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb ; nor shall 
be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself, nor be 
deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law ; nor 
shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation. 

Article VI. 

In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a 
speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the state and district 
wherein the crime shall have been committed, which district shall have 
been previously ascertained by law, and to be informed of the nature and 
cause of the accusation ; to be confronted with the witnesses against him ; 
to have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in his favor; and to 
have the assistance of counsel for his defense. 

Article VII. 

In suits at common law, where the value in controversy shall exceed 
twenty dollars, the right of trial by jury shall be preserved, and no fact 



170 CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES 

tried by a jury shall be otherwise re-examined in any court of the United 
States than according to the rules of the common law. 

Article VIII. 

Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, 
nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted. 

Article IX. 

The enumeration, in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be 
construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people. 

Article X. 

The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, 
nor prohibited by it to the states, are reserved to the states respectively, 
or to the people. 

Article XI. 

The judicial power of the United States shall not be construed to 
extend to any suit in law or equity commenced or prosecuted against one 
of the United States by citizens of another state, or by citizens or sub- 
jects of any foreign state. 

Article XII. 

The Electors shall meet in their respective states and vote by ballot 
for President and Vice-President, one of whom, at least, shall not be an 
inhabitant of the same state with themselves ; they shall name in their 
ballots the person to be voted for as president, and in distinct ballots the 
person voted for as Vice-President, and they shall make distinct lists of 
all persons voted for as President, and of all persons voted for as Vice- 
President, and of the number of votes for each, which list they shall sign 
and certify, and transmit sealed to the seat of the government of the United 
States, directed to the President of the Senate. The President of the 
Senate shall, in presence of the Senate and House of Representatives, 
open all the certificates, and the votes shall then be counted. The person 
having the greatest number of votes for President shall be the President, 
if such number be a majority of the whole number of Electors appointed ; 
and if no person have such majority, then from the persons having the 
highest number not exceeding three on the list of those voted for as 
President, the House of Representatives shall choose immediately, by 
ballot, the President. But in choosing the President, the votes shall be 
taken by States, the representation from each state having one vote; a 
quorum for this purpose shall consist of a member or members from two- 
thirds of the states, and a majority of all the states shall be necessary to 
a choice. And if the House of Representatives shall not choose a Presi- 
dent whenever the right of choice shall devolve upon them, before the 
fourth day of March next following, then the Vice-President shall act as 
President, as in the case of the death or other constitutional disability of 
the President. The person having the greatest number of votes as Vice- 
President, shall be the Vice-President, if such number be the majority 
of the whole number of electors appointed, and if no person have a major- 



AND ITS AMENDMENTS. 171 

ity / then from the two highest numbers on the list, the Senate shall choose 
the Vice-President ; a quorum for the purpose shall consist of two-thirds 
of the whole number of Senators, and a majority of the whole number 
shall be necessary to a choice. But no person constitutionally ineligible 
to the office of President shall be eligible to that of Vice-President of the 
United States. 

Article XIII. 

Section 1. Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a 
punishment for crime, whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, 
shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their juris- 
diction. 

Sec. 2. Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appro- 
priate legislation. 

Article XIV. 

Section 1. All persons born or naturalized in the United States and 
subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States, and 
of the state wherein they reside. No state shall make or enforce any law 
which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United 
States; nor shall any state deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, 
without due process of law, nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction 
the equal protection of the laws. 

Sec. 2. Representatives shall be appointed among the several states 
according to their respective numbers, counting the whole number of per- 
sons in each state, excluding Indians not taxed ; but when the right to 
vote at any election for the choice of Electors for President and Vice- 
President of the United States, Representatives in Congress, the execu- 
tive and judicial officers of a state, or the members of the Legislature 
thereof, is denied to any of the male inhabitants of such state, being 
twenty-one years of age and citizens of the United States, or in any way 
abridged except for participation in rebellion or other crimes, the basis of 
representation therein shall be reduced in the proportion which the num- 
ber of such male citizens shall bear to the whole number of male citizens 
twenty-one years of age in such state. 

Sec. 3. No person shall be a Senator or Representative in Congress, 
or Elector of President and Vice-President, or hold any office, civil or 
military, under the United States, or under any state, who, having previ- 
ously taken an oath as a Member of Congress, or as an officer of the 
United States, or as a member of any state Legislature, or as an execu- 
tive or judicial officer of any state to support the Constitution of the 
United States, shall have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the 
same, or given aid or comfort to the enemies thereof. But Congress mav 
by a vote of two-thirds of each house, remove such disability. 

Sec. 4. The validity of the public debt of the United States author- 
ized by law, including debts incurred for payment of pensions and boun- 
ties for services in suppressing insurrection or rebellion, shall not be ques- 
tioned. But neither the United States nor any state shall pay any debt 
or obligation incurred in the aid of insurrection or rebellion against the 
United States, or any loss or emancipation of any slave, but such debts, 
obligations, and claims shall be held illegal and void. 



172 



CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES. 



Sec. 5. The Congress shall have power to enforce, by appropriate 
legislation, the provisions of this act. 

Article XV. 

Section 1. The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall 
not be denied or abridged by the United States, or by any state, on 
account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude. 

Sec. 2. Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appro- 
priate legislation. 



ELECTORS OF PRESIDENT AND VICE-PRESIDENT. 

November 7, 1876. 



COUNTIES. 



■a . 

"SO 


s*g2 


<ox 

o g 


c 


03 q; 


^■5 


a« ° 


OS 


BO 


<o.z. 

X o 


J)J3 3 


» - S3 


|5 


5 



COUNTIES. 



^ t- z 



m 0J43 



*^S 








S3«2 


o H 


~ = = 


3 © 






~X4 





Adams 

Alexander 

Bond 

Boone 

Brown 

Bureau 

Calhoun 

Carroll 

Cass 

Champaign... 

Christian 

Clark 

Clay 

Clinton 

Coles 

Cook 

Crawford 

Cumberland.. 

DeKalb 

DeWitt 

Douglas 

DuPage 

Edgar 

Edwards 

Effingham 

Fayette 

Foru 

Franklin 

Fulton 

Gallatin 

Greene 

Grundy 

Hamilton 

Hancock 

Hardin 

Henderson 

Henry 

Iroquois 

Jackson 

Jasper 

Jefferson 

Jersey 

Jo Daviess 

Johnson 

Kane 

Kankakee 

Kendall 

Knox 

Lake 

La Salle 

Lawrence 

Lee 



4953 
1219 
1520 
1965 

944 
3719 

441 
2231 
1209 
4530 
2501 
1814 
1416 
1329 
2957 
36548 
1355 
1145 
3679 
1928 
1631 
2129 
2715 

970 
1145 
1881 
1601 

966 
4187 

703 
1695 
1996 

627 
3496 

330 
1315 
41 

3768 
2040 



1346 

1345 

2907 

136 

5398 

26 "" 

1869 

5-i:;r. 

2619 

62 

1198 

308' 



6308 
1280 
1142 

363 
1495 
2218 

900 

918 
1618 
3103 
3287 
2197 
1541 
1989 
2822 
3924H 
1643 
1407 
1413 
1174 
1357 
1276 
2883 

466 
2265 
2421 

742 
1302 
4669 
1140 
3160 
1142 
1433 
4207 

611 
1015 
1928 
2578 
2071 



17 

43 
183 
145 



111 

74 

604 

207 

236 

112 

132 

102 

277 

38 

129 

65 

746 

94 

25 

161 

61 

43 

57 

204 

391 

89 

282 

1 

108 

770 



134 
1 

340 
249 
106 



1667 
2166 
2276 

893 
2850 
1363 

524 
2632 
1647 
6001 
1329 
2080 



647 



140 

61 
172 

26 
309 
141 

55 
514 

27 
100 



Livingston... 

Logan 

Macon 

Macoupin 

Madison 

Marion 

Marshall 

Mason 

Massac 

McDonough . 
McHeury.... 
McLean ...... 

Menard 

Mercer 

Monroe 

Montgomery 

Morgan 

Moultrie 

Ogle 

Peoria 

Pope 

Perry 

Piatt 

Pike 

Pulaski 

Putnam 

Randolph 

Richland 

Rock Island.. 

Saline 

Sangamon ... 

Schuyler 

Scott 

Shelby 

Stark 

St. Clair 

Stephenson.. 

Tazewell 

Union 

Vermilion... 

Wabash 

Warren 

Washington. 

Wayne 

White 

Whiteside 

Will 

Williamson.. 
Winnebago.. 
Woodford ... 

Total 



2134 
2595 
27S2 
4076 
4730 
2444 
1430 
1939 

793 
2811 
1874 
4410 
1657 
1428 
1651 
3013 
3174 
1672 
1921 
5443 

800 
1383 
1316 
4040 

772 

459 
2589 
1552 
2838 
1081 
5847 
1804 
1269 
3553 

786 
5891 
2758 
3171 
2155 
3031 

936 
1984 
1671 
1751 
2066 
2131 
3999 
1644 
1568 
2105 



275958 257099 16951 130 15 



1170 

37 
268 
114 

39 
209 
135 

86 

20 
347 

34 
518 

10 

90 

7 

201 

109 

28 
104 

95 
5 

48 
117 

35 



14 
2 

55 

27 

641 

29 

115 

182 

341 

96 

99 

26 

44 

3 

288 

207 

138 

39 

482 

469 

133 

677 

41 

70 

237 



16 



Practical Rules for Every Day Use. 



How to find the gain or loss per cent, when the cost and selling price 
are given. 

Rule. — Find the difference between the cost and selling price, which 
will be the gain or loss. 

Annex two ciphers to the gain or loss, and divide it by the cost 
price ; the result will be the gain or loss per cent. 

Hoiv to change gold into currency. 

Rule. — Multiply the given sum of gold by the price of gold. 

Sow to change currency into gold. 

Divide the amount in currency by the price of gold. 

Hoiv to find each partner s share of the gain or loss in a copartnership 
business. 

Rule. — Divide the whole gain or loss by the entire stock, the quo- 
tient will be the gain or loss per cent. 

Multiply each partner's stock by this per cent., the result will be 
each one's share of the gain or loss. • 

Hoiv to find gross and net weight and price of hogs. 

A short and simple method for finding the net weight, or price of hogs, 
when the gross weight or price is given, and vice versa. 

Note.— It is generally assumed that the gross weight of Hogs diminished by 1-5 or 20 per cent 
of itself gives the net weight, and the net weight increased by K or 25 per cent, of itself equals the 
gross weight. 

To find the net weight or gross price. 

Multiply the given number by .8 (tenths.) 

To find the gross weight or net price. 

Divide the given number by .8 (tenths.) 

Hoiv to find the capacity of a granary, bin, or luagon-bed. 

Rule. — Multiply (by short method) the number of cubic feet by 
6308, and point off one decimal place — the result will be the correct 
answer in bushels and tenths of a bushel. 

For only an approximate answer, multiply the cubic feet by 8, and 
point off one decimal place. 

How to find the contents of a corn-crib. 

Rule. — Multiply the number of cubic feet by 54, short method, or 

(173) 



174 MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION. 

by 4£ ordinary method, and point off one decimal place — the result will 
be the answer in bushels. 

Notk.— In estimating corn in the ear, the quality and the time it has been cribbed must he taken 
into consideration, since corn will shrink considerably during the Winter and Spring. This rule generally holds 
good for corn measured at the time it is cribbed, provided it is sound and clean. 

How to find the contents of a cistern or tank. 

Rule. — Multiply the square of the mean diameter by the depth (all 
in feet) and this product by 5681 (short method), and point off one 
decimal place — the result will be the contents in barrels of 31£ gallons. 

How to find the contents of a barrel or cask. 

Rule. — Under the square of the mean diameter, write the length 
(all in inches) in reversed order, so that its units will fall under the 
tens ; multiply by short method, and this product again by 430 ; point 
off one decimal place, and the result will be the answer in wine gallons. 

How to measure boards. 

Rule. — Multiply the length (in feet) by the width (in inches) and 
divide the product by 12 — the result will be the contents in square feet. 

How to measure scantlings, joists, planks, sills, etc. 

Rule. — Multiply the width, the thickness, and the length together 
(the width and thickness in inches, and the length in feet), and divide 
the product by 12 — the result will be square feet. 

How to find the number of acres in a body of land. 

Rule. — Multiply the length by the width (in rods), and divide the 
product by 160 (carrying the division to 2 decimal places if there is a 
remainder) ; the result will be the answer in acres and hundredths. 

When the opposite sides of a piece of land are of unequal length, 
add them together and take one-half for the mean length or width. 

Hoiv to find the number of square yards in a floor or wall. 

Rule. — Multiply the length by the width or height (in feet), and 
divide the product by 9, the result will be square yards. 

Hoiv to find the number of bricks required in a building. 

Rule. — Multiply the number of cubic feet by 22f. 

The number of cubic feet is found by multiplying the length, height 
and thickness (in feet) together. 

Bricks are usually made 8 inches long, 4 inches wide, and two inches 
thick ; hence, it requires 27 bricks to make a cubic foot without mortar, 
but it is generally assumed that the mortar fills 1-6 of the space. 

Hoiv to find the number of shingles required in a roof. 

Rule. — Multiply the number of square feet in the roof by 8, if the 
shingles are exposed 4£ inches, or by 7 1-5 if exposed 5 inches. 

To find the number of square feet, multiply the length of the roof by 
twice the lensrth of the rafters. 



MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION. 175 

To find the length of the rafters, at one-fourth pitch, multiply the 
width of the building by .56 (hundredths) ; at one-third pitch, by .6 
(tenths) ; at two-fifths pitch, by .64 (hundredths) ; at one-half 
pitch, by .71 (hundredths). This gives the length of the rafters from 
the apex to the end of the wall, and whatever they are to project must be 
taken into consideration. 

Note.— By a or K pitch is meant that the apex or comb of the roof is to be X or M the width of the 
building higher than the walls or base of the rafters. 

How to reckon the cost of hay. 

Rule. — Multiply the number of pounds by half the price per ton, 
and remove the decimal point three places to the left. 

How to measure grain. 

Rule. — Level the grain ; ascertain the space it occupies in cubic 
feet ; multiply the number of cubic feet by 8, and point off one place to 
the left. 

Note.— Exactness requires the addition to every three hundred bushels of one extra bushel. 

The foregoing rule may be used for finding the number of gallons, by 
multiplying the number of bushels by 8. 

If the corn in the box is in the ear, divide the answer by 2, to find 
the number of bushels of shelled corn, because it requires 2 bushels of eai 
corn to make 1 of shelled corn. 

Rapid rules for measuring land ivithout instruments. 

In measuring land, the first thing to ascertain is the contents of any 
given plot in square yards ; then, given the number of yards, find out the 
number of rods and acres. 

The most ancient and simplest measure of distance is a step. Now, 
an ordinary-sized man can train himself to cover one yard at a stride, on 
the average, with sufficient accuracy for ordinary purposes. 

To make use of this means of measuring distances, it is essential to 
walk in a straight line ; to do this, fix the eye on two objects in a line 
straight ahead, one comparatively near, the other remote ; and, in walk- 
ing, keep these objects constantly in line. 

Farmers and others by adopting the following simple and ingenious con- 
trivance, may always carry with them the scale to construct a correct yard 
measure. 

Take a foot rule, and commencing at the base of the little finger of 
the left hand, mark the quarters of the foot on the outer borders of the 
left arm, pricking in the marks with indelible ink. 

To find how many rods in length tvill make an acre, the width being given. 
Rule. — Divide 160 by the width, and the quotient will be the answer. 



176 



MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION. 



Hoiv to find the number of acres in any plot of land, the number of rods 
being given. 

Rule. — Divide the number of rods by 8, multiply the quotient by 5, 
and remove the decimal point two places to the left. 

The diameter being given, to find the circumference. 

Rule. — Multiply the diameter by 3 1-7. 

Hoiv to find the diameter, ivhen the circumference is given. 

Rule. — Divide the circumference by 3 1-7. 

To find hoiv many solid feet a round stick of timber of the same thick- 
ness throughout ivill contain when squared. 

Rule. — Square half the diameter in inches, multiply by 2, multiply 
by the length in feet, and divide the product by 144. 

General rule for measuring timber, to find the solid contents in feet. 

Rule. — Multiply the depth in inches by the breadth in inches, and 
then multiply by the length in feet, and divide by 144. 

To find the number of feet of timber in trees with the bark on. 

Rule. — Multiply the square of one-fifth of the circumference in 
inches, by twice the length, in feet, and divide by 144. Deduct 1-10 to 
1-15 according to the thickness of the bark. 

Hoivard's neiv rule for computing interest. 

Rule. — The reciprocal of the rate is the time for which the interest 
on any sum of money will be shown by simply removing the decimal 
point two places to the left ; for ten times that time, remove the point 
one place to the left; for 1-10 of the same time, remove the point three 
places to the left. 

Increase or diminish the results to suit the time given. 

Note.— The reciprocal of the rate is found by inverting the rate ; thus 3 per cent, per month, in- 
verted, becomes % of a month, or 10 days. 

When the rate is expressed by one figure, always write it thus: 3-1, 
three ones. 

Rule for converting English into American currency. 
Multiply the pounds, with the shillings and pence stated in decimals, 
by 400 plus the premium in fourths, and divide the product by 90. 

U. S. GOVERNMENT LAND MEASURE. 

A township — 36 sections each a mile square. 
A section — 640 acres. 

A quarter section, half a mile square — 160 acres. 
An eighth section, half a mile long, north and south, and a quarter 
of a mile wide — 80 acres. 

A sixteenth section, a quarter of a mile square — 40 acres. 



MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION. 177 

The sections are all numbered 1 to 36, commencing at the north-east 
corner. 

The sections are divided into quarters, which are named by the 
cardinal points. The quarters are divided in the same way. The de- 
scription of a forty acre lot would read : The south half of the west half of 
the south-west quarter of section 1 in township 24, north of range 7 west, 
or as the case might be ; and sometimes will fall short and sometimes 
overrun the number of acres it is supposed to contain. 

The nautical mile is 795 4-5 feet longer than the common mile. 

SURVEYORS' MEASURE. 

7 92-100 inches make 1 link. 

25 links " 1 rod. 

4rods .'. " 1 chain. 

80 chains " 1 mile. 

Note. — A chain is 100 links, equal to 4 rods or 66 feet. 

Shoemakers formerly used a subdivision of the inch called a barley- 
corn ; three of which made an inch. 

Horses are measured directly over the fore feet, and the standard of 
measure is four inches — called a hand. 

In Biblical and other old measurements, the term span is sometimes 
used, which is a length of nine inches. 

The sacred cubit of the Jews was 24.024 inches in length. 

The common cubit of the Jews was 21.704 inches in length. 

A pace is equal to a yard or 36 inches. 

A fathom is equal to 6 feet. 

A league is three miles, but its length is variable, for it is strictly 
speaking a nautical term, and should be three geographical miles, equal 
to 3.45 statute miles, but when used on land, three statute miles are said 
to be a league. 

In cloth measure an aune is equal to li yards, or 45 inches. 

An Amsterdam ell is equal to 26.796 inches. 

A Trieste ell is equal to 25.284 inches. 

A Brabant ell is equal to 27.116 inches. 

HOW TO KEEP ACCOUNTS. 

Every farmer and mechanic, whether he does much or little business, 
should keep a record of his transactions in a clear and systematic man- 
ner. For the benefit of those who have not had the opportunhVy of ac- 
quiring a primary knowledge of the principles of book-keeping, we here 
present a simple form of keeping accounts which is easily comprehended, 
and well adapted to record the business transactions of farmers, mechanics 
and laborers. 



MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION. 



1875. 



A. H. JACKSON. 



Dr. 



Cr. 



Jan 10 


To 7 bushels Wheat 


at $1.25 


$8 

6 
1 

48 
G 

17 


75 

30 

25 

0(1 

25 

50 


♦2 

18 
2 

25 
4 

35 




" 17 


By shoeino- span of Horses „ 


50 


Feb. 4 

" 4 

March 8 


To 14 bushels Oats 

To 5 lbs. Butter 


... at $ .45 

..at .25 


00 


" 8 


Bv sharneninsr 2 Plows . . . 


40 


" 13 


By new Double-Tree. 


25 


" 27 


To Cow and Calf _ . . 




April 9 
" 9 


To half ton of Hay 




By Cash 


00 


May 6 
" 24 


By repairino- Corn-Planter ... 


75 


To one Sow with Pigs _ . 




July 4 


By Cash, to balance account 


15 










$88 


05 


$88 


05 



1875. 



CASS A MASON. 



Dr. 



Cr. 



March 21 
" 21 
" 23 
1 
1 

19 
26 
10 
2 It 
12 
"" 12 
Sept. 1 



May 

u 

June 

u 

July 

a 

Aug:. 



By 3 days' labor .at $1.25 

To 2 Shoats at 3.00 

To 18 bushels Corn at .45 

By 1 month's Labor 

To Cash 

By 8 days' Mowing at $1.50 

To 50 lbs. Flour. 

To 27 lbs. Meat at $ .10 

By 9 days' Harvesting ...at 2.00 

By 6 days' Labor at 1.50 

To Cash... 

To Cash to balance account 







S3 


$6 


00 




8 


10 


25 


10 


00 


12 


2 


75 




2 


70 


18 
9 


20 


00 




18 


20 




$67 


75 


$67 



00 
00 



00 
00 



15 



INTEREST TABLE. 

A Simple Rule for accurately Computing Interest at Any Given Per Cent, for Any 

Length of Time. 

Multiply the principal (amount of money at interest) by the time reduced to days; then divide this product 

the quotient obtained by dividing 360 (the number of days in the interest year) by the per cent, of interest, 



by the quotient _ 

andt/ie quotient thus obtained will be the required interest 

ILLUSTRATION. 

Require the interest of 8462.50 for one month and eighteen days at 6 per cent. An 
interest month is 30 days; one month and eighteen days equal 48 days. $462.50 multi- 



$462.50 

.48 



(because 360 divided by 12" gives 30); "if 4 percent., we would divide by 90; if 8 per 
cent., by 45; and In like manner for any other per cent, 



> 6)360 \ 185000 

60/ $222.0000( $3.70 
180 

420 
420 

~00 



MISCELLANEOUS TABLE. 



12 units, or things, 1 Dozen. 
12 dozen, 1 Gross. 
30 things, 1 Score. 



196 pounds, 1 Barrel of Flour. I 24 sheets of paper. 1 Quire. 

200 pounds, 1 Barrel of Pork. 20 quires paper 1 Ream. ,„,,„. 

56 pounds, 1 Firkin of Butter. | 4 ft. wide, 4 ft. high, and 8 ft. long, 1 Cord V\ ooa. 



MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION. 179 

NAMES OF THE STATES OF THE UNION, AND THEIR SIGNIFICATIONS. 

Virginia. — The oldest of the States, was so called in honor of Queen 

Elizabeth, the "Virgin Queen," in whose reign Sir Walter Raleigh made 

his first attempt to colonize that region. 

Florida. — Ponce de Leon landed on the coast of Florida on Easter 

Sunday, and called the country in commemoration of the day, which was 

the Pasqua Florida of the Spaniards, or " Feast of Flowers." 

Louisiana was called after Louis the Fourteenth, who at one time 

owned that section of the country. 

Alabama was so named by the Indians, and signifies " Here we Rest." 
Mississippi is likewise an Indian name, meaning " Long River." 
Arkansas, from Kansas, the Indian word for " smoky water." Its 

prefix was really arc, the French word for " bow." 

The Carolinas were originally one tract, and were called "Carolana," 

after Charles the Ninth of France. 

Georgia owes its name to George the Second of England, who first 
established a colony there in 1732. 

Tennessee is the Indian name for the " River of the Bend," i. e., the 
Mississippi which forms its western boundary. 

Kentucky is the Indian name for " at the head of the river." 

Ohio means " beautiful ; " Iowa, " drowsy ones ; " Minnesota, " cloudy 
water," and Wisconsin, '"wild-rushing channel." 

Illinois is derived from the Indian word illini, men, and the French 
suffix ois, together signifying " tribe of men." 

Michigan was called by the name given the lake, fish-iv eir, which was 
so styled from its fancied resemblance to a fish trap. 

Missouri is from the Indian word "muddy," which more properly 
applies to the river that flows through it. 

Oregon owes its Indian name also to its principal river. 

Cortes named California. 

Massachusetts is the Indian for " The country around the great hills." 

Connecticut, from the Indian Quon-ch-ta-Cut, signifying "Long 
River." 

Maryland, after Henrietta Maria, Queen of Charles the First, of 
England. 

New York was named by the Duke of York. 

Pennsylvania means " Penn's woods," and was so called after Williarp 
Penn, its orignal owner. 



180 



MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION. 



Delaware after Lord De La Ware. 

New Jersey, so called in honor of Sir George Carteret, who was 
Governor of the Island of Jersey, in the British Channel. 

Maine was called after the province of Maine in France, in compli- 
ment of Queen Henrietta of England, who owned that province. 

Vermont, from the French word Vert Mont, signifying Green 
Mountain. 

Neiv Hampshire, from Hampshire county in England. It was 
formerly called Laconia. 

The little State of Rhode Island owes its name to the Island of 
Rhodes in the Mediterranean, which domain it is said to greatly 
resemble. 

Texas is the American word for the Mexican name by which all that 
section of the country was called before it was ceded to the United States. 



POPULATION OF THE 
UNITED STATES. 



States asd Territories. 



Alabama 

Arkansas 

California 

Connecticut 

Delaware 

Florida 

Georgia 

Illinois 

Indiana 

Iowa 

Kansas 

Kentucky 

Louisiana 

Maine 

Maryland 

Massachusetts 

Michigan 

Minnesota 

Mississippi 

Missouri 

Nebraska 

Nevada 

New Hampshire. 

New Jersey 

New York 

North Carolina .. 

Ohio 

Oregon 

Pennsylvania 

Rhode Island 

South Carolina... 

Tennessee 

Texas 

Vermont 

Virginia 

West Virginia 

Wisconsin 



Total States. 



Arizona 

Colorada 

Dakota 

District of Columbia. 

Idaho 

Montana 

New Mexlqo 

Utah ... 

Washington 

Wyoming 



Total Territories... 
Total United States 



Total 
Population. 



996. 
4S4. 
50o. 

53 ~. 
125, 

187, 
184, 
5;i9, 
680, 
191, 
364, 
,321, 
726. 
626. 
7so, 
,457, 
,184, 
439, 
827. 
,721, 
122, 

42, 
318, 
906, 
3S2, 
071. 
66.-,. 

90, 
521. 
217, 
705 
25S, 
Sis 
330, 
225 
442 
05 1 



992 
471 
247 
454 
015 
74 8 
109 
891 
637 
792 
399 
Oil 
915 
915 
894 
351 
059 
06 
922 
295 
993 
491 
300 
096 
759 
361 
260 
923 
791 
353 
606 
520 
579 
551 
163 
,014 
670 



38,113,253 



9,658 
39,864 
14,181 
131.700 
14,999 
20,595 
91,874 
86.786 
23,955 
9,118 

442,730 

38,555,983 



POPULATION OF FIFTY 
PRINCIPAL CITIES. 



New York, N. Y 

Philadelphia, Pa.... 

Brooklyn, N. Y 

St. Louis, Mo 

Chicago, 111 

Baltimore, Md 

Boston, Mass 

Cincinnati, Ohio 

New Orleans, La. .. 
San Francisco, cal.. 

Buffalo, N. Y 

Washington, D. C... 

Newark, N. J 

Louisville, Ky 

Cleveland, Ohio 

Pittsburg, Pa 

Jersey City, N. J ... 

Detroit, Mich 

Milwaukee, Wis — 

Albany, N. Y 

Providence, R. I 

Rochester, N. Y 

Allegheny, Pa 

Richmond, Va 

New Haven, Conn.. 

Charleston, S. C 

Indianapolis, Ind... 

Troy, N. Y 

Syracuse, N. Y 

Worcester, Mass.... 

Lowell, Mass 

Memphis, Tenn 

Cambridge, Mass... 

Hartford, Conn 

Scranton, Pa 

Reading, Pa 

Paterson, N.J 

Kansas City, Mo 

Mobile, Ala 

Toledo. Ohio 

Portland, Me 

Columbus, Ohio 

Wilmington, Del... 

Dayton, Ohio 

Lawrence, Mass 

Utica, N. Y 

Charlestown, Mass 

Savannah, Ga 

Lvnn. Mass 

Fall River, Mass... 



Aggregate 
Population. 



942, 

674, 

396. 

310. 

298, 

267, 

250, 

216, 

191, 

149. 

117, 

109, 

105, 

100. 

92, 

86, 

82, 

79, 

71, 

69, 

68. 

62, 

53. 

51. 

50 

48, 

48. 

46, 

43 

41 

40. 

40, 

39, 

37, 

35, 

33 

33 

32 

32 

31 

31 

31 

30 

30 

28 

28 

28, 

28, 

28, 

26 



292 
022 
099 
864 
977 
354 
526 
239 
418 
473 
714 
199 
059 
753 
829 
076 
546 
577 
440 
422 
904 
386 
180 
038 
840 
956 
244 
465 
051 
105 
928 
226 
634 
180 
092 
930 
579 
260 
034 
584 
,413 
,274 
841 
473 
,921 
,804 
323 
235 
233 
766 



MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION. 



181 



POPULATION OF THE UNITED STATES. 



States and 
Territories. 



States. 

Alabama 

Arkansas.. 

California 

Connecticut 

Delaware 

Florida 

Georgia 

Illinois 

Indiana 

Iowa 

Kansas 

Kentucky 

Louisiana 

Maine 

Maryland 

Massachusetts... 

Michigan* 

Minnesota 

Mississippi 

Missouri 

Nebraska 

Nevada 

New Hampshire. 

New Jersey 

New York 

North Carolina.. 

Ohio 

Oregon 



47, 
50, 

39, 
95, 
Last Census of 



Area in 
square 
Miles. 1870 



Population. 



1,350,544 
528,349 



857,039 



996,992 

484,471 

560,247 

537,454 

125,015 

187,748 
1,184,109 
2,539,891 
1,680,637 
1.191.792 

364,399 
1,321.011 

726,915 

626,915 

780,894 
1,457,351 
1,184,059 

439,706 

827,922 
1,721,295 

123,993 
42,491 

318.300 

906,096 

4,382,759 

1,071,361 

2,665,260 

90,923 

Michigan taken in 1874 



1875. 



1,651,912 

1,334,031 

598,429 



246,280 
52,540 



1,026,502 
4,705,208 



Miles 
R. R. 

1872. 



States and 
Territories. 



States. 

Pennsylvania 

Rhode Island 

South Carolina... 

Tennessee 

Texas 

Vermont 

Virginia 

West Virginia 

Wisconsin 

Total States 

Territories. 

Arizona 

Colorado 

Dakota 

Dist. of Columbia 

Idaho 

Montana 

New Mexico 

Utah 

Washington , 

Wyoming 

Total Territories 



Area in 
square 
Miles. 



46,000 
1,306 
29,385 
45,600 
237,504 
10,212 
40,904 
23,000 
53,924 



1,950,171 



113,916 

104,500 

147,490 

60 

90,932 

143,776 

121,201 

80,056 

69,944 

93,107 



965,032 



Population. 



1870. 



3,521, 
21~ 
705, 

1,258, 
818, 
330, 

1,225 
442, 

1,054 



38,113,253 



9,658 
39,864 
14,181 
131,700 
14,999 
20,595 
91.874 
86,786 
23,955 

9,118 



442,730 



1875. 



258,239 
925,145 



1,236,729 



Miles 
R. R. 
1872. 



5,113 
136 

1,201 

1,520 
865 
675 

1,490 
485 

1,725 



59,587 



375 
'498 



1,265 



Aggregate of U. S.. 2,915,203 38,555,983 60,852 

* Included in the Railroad Mileage of Maryland. 



PRINCIPAL COUNTRIES OF THE WORLD; 

Population and Area. 



Countries. 



Population. 



Date of 
Census. 



Area in 
Square 
Miles. 



Inhabitants 

to Square 

Mile. 



Population. 



China 

British Empire 

Russia 

United States with Alaska 

Prance 

Austria and Hungary 

Japan 

Great Britain and Ireland 

German Empire 

Italy 

Spain 

Brazil 

Turkey 

Mexico 

Sweden and Norway 

Persia 

Belgium 

Bavaria 

Portugal 

Holland 

New Grenada 

Chili 

Switzerland 

Peru 

Bolivia 

Argentine Republic 

Wurtemburg 

Denmark 

Venezuela 

Baden 

Greece 

Guatemala 

Ecuador 

Paraguay 

Hesse 

Liberia 

San Salvador 

Hayti 

Nicaragua 

Uruguay 

Honduras 

San Domingo 

Costa Rica 

Hawaii 



446, 

226, 

81, 

38, 

36, 

35, 

34, 

31, 

29, 

27 

16 

10, 

16, 

9, 

5; 

5, 

5, 

4, 

3, 

3 

3, 

2 

2 

2 

2 

1 

1 

1 

I 

1 

1 

1 

1 

1 



500.000 
817,108 
925,400 
925,600 
469,800 
904,400 
785,300 
817,100 
906,092 
439,921 
642,000 
000.000 
463,000 
173.000 
921.500 
000,000 
021,300 
861.400 
995,200 
688,300 
000.000 
000.000 
669.100 
500,000 
,000,000 
812,000 
,818,500 
,784.700 
500,000 
,461,400 
,457.900 
180,000 
.300,000 
,000,000 
823,138 
718,000 
600,000 
572,000 
350,001) 
300.000 
350,000 
136,000 
165.000 
62.950 



1871 
1871 
1871 
1870 
1866 
1869 
1871 
1871 
1871 
1871 
1867 



1869 
1870 
1870 
1869 
1871 
1868 
1870 
1870 
1869 
1870 
1871 

1869 
1871 
1870 

'1871 
1870 
1871 

'1871 

1871 

1871 

1871 

1871 
1871 

'1870 



3,741,846 

4,677,432 

8,003,778 

2,603,884 

204,091 

240.348 

149,399 

121,315 

160,207 

118,847 

195,775 

3,253,029 

672,621 

761.526 

292,871 

635,964 

11,373 

29,292 

34,494 

12,680 

357,157 

132.616 

15,992 

471.838 

497.321 

871,848 

7,533 

14,753 

368.238 

5,912 

19,353 

40,879 

218,928 

63,787 

2,969 

9,576 

7,335 

10,205 

58,171 

66,722 

47.092 

17,827 

21,505 

7.633 



119.3 

48.6 

10.2 

7.78 

178.7 

149.4 

232.8 

262.3 

187. 

230.9 

85. 

3.07 
24.4 



20. 
7.8 
441.5 
165.9 
115.8 
290.9 
8.4 
15.1 
166.9 
5.3 
4. 
2.1 
241.4 
120.9 
4.2 
247. 
75.3 
28.9 
5.9 
15.6 
277. 
74.9 
81.8 
56. 
6. 
6.5 
7.4 
7.6 

80!' 



Pekin , 

London 

St. Petersburg. 
Washington ... 

Paris 

Vienna 

Yeddo 

London 

Berlin 

Rome 

Madrid 

Rio Janeiro 

Constantinople 

Mexico 

Stockholm 

Teheran 

Brussels 

Munich 

Lisbon 

Hague 

Bogota 

Santiago 

Berne 

Lima 

Chuquisaca 

Buenos Ayres.. 

Stuttgart 

Copenhagen 

Caraccas 

Carlsruhe 

Athens 

Guatemala 

Quito 

Asuncion 

Darmstadt 

Monrovia 

Sal Salvador... 
Port au Prince 

Managua 

Monte Video... 

Comayagua 

San Domingo... 

San Jose 

Honolulu 



1,648,800 

3,251.800 

667,000 

109,199 

1.825.300 

833,900 

1.554,900 

3,251,800 

825,400 

244,484 

332,000 

420,000 

1,075,000 

210.300 

136,900 

120,000 

314,100 

169.500 

224,063 

90,100 

45.000 

115,400 

36.000 

160,100 

25.000 

177.800 

91.600 

162,042 

47,000 

36,600 

43,400 

40,000 

70,000 

48,000 

30.000 

3,000 

15.000 

20,000 

10,000 

44.500 

12,000 

20,000 

2.000 

7,633 



182 



MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION 



POPULATION OF ILLINOIS, 
By Counties. 



COUNTIES. 



Adams 

Alexander. . 

Bond 

Boone 

Brown 

Bureau 

Calhoun 

Carroll 

Cass 

Champaign. 
Christian .. 

Clark 

Clay 

Clinton 

Coles 

Cook 

Crawford 

Cumberland 
De Kalb... 
De Witt... 

Douglas 

Du Page 

Edgar 

Edwards 

Effingham. . 

Fayette 

Ford 

Franklin 

Fulton 

Gallatin 

Greene 

Grundy 

Hamilton .. 

Hancock 

Hardin 

Henderson . 

Henry 

Iroquois ... 

Jackson 

Jasper 

Jefferson... 

Jersey 

Jo Daviess. 

Johnson 

Kane 

Kankakee. . 
Kendall ... 

Knox 

Lake 

La Salle 

Lawrence.. 

Lee 

Livingston . 
Logan 



AGGREGATE. 



1870. 1860. 1850. 1840. 1830. 1820 



56362 
10564 
I3I52 
12942 
12205 

32415 

6562 

16705 

II580 

32737 
20363 
1S719 

15875 
16285 

25235 
349966 

13889 
12223 
23265 
14768 
13484 
16685 
21450 

7565 
15653 
19638 

9103 
12652 
38291 

I"34 

20277 
14938 
13014 

35935 
5113 

12582 
355o6 

25782 

19634 
11234 

17S64 

15054 
27S20 
1 1 248 
39091 
24352 
12399 
39522 
21014 
60792 

12533 
27171 

3M7I 
23053 



41323 

4707 

9815 

11678 

9938 

26426 

5M4 

H733 

11325 

14629 

10492 

14987 

9336 

1 094 1 

14203 

144954 

II55I 
8311 
19086 
10820 
7140 
14701 
16925 

5454 
7816 

11189 
1979 
9393 

33338 
8055 

16093 

10379 

99 x 5 

29061 

3759 

950i 

20660 

12325 

9589 

8364 

12965 

1 205 1 

27325 

9342 

30062 

15412 

13074 
28663 
18257 
48332 
9214 
17651 
11637 
14272 



26508 
2484 

6i44 
7624 
7198 

8841 

3231 
4586 

7253 
2649 
3203 
9532 
4289 

5139 
9335 

43385 

7135 

37i8 
7540 
5002 



9290 

10692 

3524 

3799 

8075 



5681 

22508 

5448 

12429 

3023 

6362 

14652 

2887 

4612 

3807 

4149 

5862 

3220 

8109 

7354 
18604 

4114 
16703 



7730 
13279 
14226 

17S15 
6121 
5-292 

1553 
5128 



14476 

3313 
5060 

1705 
4183 
3067 
1741 
1023 
2981 

1475 
1878 

7453 
3228 
3718 
9616 
10201 

4422 



1697 
3247 



3535 
8225 
3070 
1675 
6328 



3682 
13142 
10760 
II95I 



3945 
9946 

1378 



1260 
1695 
3566 
1472 
5762 
4535 
6180 
3626 
6501 



7060 
2634 
9348 
7092 
2035 
759 
2333 



2186 
1390 
3124 



1090 



3940 

755 
2330 



3"7 



4071 
1649 



2704 



4083 
1841 
7405 
7674 



2616 

483 



4i 

1828 



2555 



2111 

1596 



274 

"3668 



MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION. 



183 



POPULATION OF ILLINOIS— Concluded. 



COUNTIES. 



Macon 

Macoupin.. 

Madison 

Marion 

Marshall 

Mason 

Massac 

McDonough 
McHenry .. 
McLean — 

Menard 

Mercer 

Monroe 

Montgomery 

Morgan 

Moultrie 

Ogle 

Peoria 

Perry 

Piatt 

Pike 

Pope 

Pulaski 

Putnam 

Randolph 

Richland ... 
Rock Island 

Saline 

Sangamon .. 

Schuyler 

Scott 

Shelby 

Stark 

St. Clair 

Stephenson.. 

Tazewell 

Union 

Vermilion 

Wabash .... 

Warren 

Washington. 

Wayne . 

White 

Whitesides .. 

Will 

Williamson.. 
Winnebago.. 
Woodford... 

Total... 



AGGREGATE. 



1870. 1860. 1850. 1840. 1830. 1820 



26481 
32726 

44131 
20622 
16950 
16184 
9581 
26509 
23762 
53938 

"735 
18769 

12982 

253M 
20463 

10385 
27492 
47540 
13723 
10953 
30708 

"437 

8752 

6280 

20859 

12803 

29783 
12714 
46352 
17419 

10530 

25476 
10751 

51068 
30608 

27903 
1651S 
30388 
8841 
23174 
17599 
19758 
16S46 
27503 
43013 

17329 
29301 
18956 



I373S 
24602 
31251 
12739 
13437 
10931 
6213 
20069 
22c 
28772 

9584 
15042 

12832 

13979 
22112 

6385 

2288S 

36601 

9552 

6127 

27249 
6742 

3943 

5587 
17205 

97" 
21005 

933i 
32274 
14684 

9069 
14613 

9004 

37694 
25112 
21470 
11181 
19800 
7313 
18336 
I373I 
12223 
12403 

18737 
29321 
12205 
24491 
13282 



12355 

20441 

6720 

5180 

5921 

4092 

7616 

14978 

10163 

6349 
5246 

7679 

6277 
16064 

3234 
10020 

17547 
5278 
1606 

18819 

3975 
2265 

3924 

1 1079 

4012 

6937 
5588 
19228 
10573 
7914 
7807 
37io 

20180 

11666 

12052 

7615 

1 1492 

4690 

8176 

6953 
6825 
8925 
536i 

16703 
7216 

"773 
4415 



2539891I 1711951) 851470 



3039 
7926 

14433 

4742 
1849 



5308 
2578 
6565 
4431 
2352 

4481 

4490 

19547 



3479 
6i53 
3222 



11728 
4094 



2131 
7944 



2610 



14716 
6972 
6215 
6659 
1573 

13631 
2800 
7221 
5524 
9303 
4240 

6739 
4810 

5133 
7919 

25M 

10167 

4457 
4609 



476183 



1122 
1990 
6221 
2125 



w 



26 

2000 

2953 
12714 



1215 



2396 

3316 



/-I3IO 
4429 



12960 

£2959 



2972 



7078 



4716 
3239 

5836 

2710 

308 
1675 

2553 

6091 



13550 



*2I 

1516 



2610 



3492 



*5 

5 2 43 



2362 



1517 
1 1 14 

482& 



1574-15 



*49 
55i6a 



184 



MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION. 



STATE LAWS 

Relating to Rates of Interest and Penalties for Usury. 



States and Territories. 



Alabama 

Arizona 

Arkansas 

California 

Colorado 

Connecticut 

Dakota 

Delaware 

District of Columbia .., 

Florida 

Georgia • 

Idaho 

Illinois 

Indiana 

Iowa 

Kansas 

Kentucky 

Louisiana 

Maine 

Maryland 

Massachusetts 

Michigan 

Minnesota 

Mississippi .... 

Missouri 

Montana 

Nebraska 

Nevada 

New Hampshire 

New Jersey 

New Mexico 

New York 

North Carolina 

Ohio 

Ontario, Canada 

Oregon 

Pennsylvania 

Quebec, Canada 

Rhode Island 

South Carolina 

Tennessee 

Texas 

Utah 

Vermont 

Virginia 

Washington Territory 

West Virginia 

Wisconsin 

Wyoming , 



Legal 
Rate of 

Interest. 



per cent 

8 
10 

6 
io 

IO 

7 
7 
6 
6 
8 

7 

io 
6 
6 
6 



5 
6 
6 
6 
7 
7 
6 
6 
io 
io 

IO 

6 

7 
6 

7 
6 
6 
6 

io 
6 
6 
6 

7 
6 
8 

io 
6 
6 

io 
6 
7 

12 



Rate al- 
lowed by 
Contract. 



Penalties for Usury. 



per cent. 

8 
Any rate 

io 
Any rate 
Any rate 
7 

12 

6 

IO 

Any rate. 

12 

24 

8 

io 

IO 
12 

8 

8 
Any rate. 

6 
Any rate. 

io 

12 

io 

io 
Any rate 

12 

Any rate 
6 

7 
Any rate 

7 



Any rate. 

12 

Any rate. 
Any rate. 
Any rate. 
Any rate, 
io 

12 

Ary rate. 
6 
6* 

Any rate 
6* 
io 

Any rate 



Forfeiture of entire interest. 
Forfeiture of principal and interest. 



Forfeiture of excess of interest. 
Forfeiture of entire interest. 
Forfeiture of principal. 
Forfeiture of entire interest. 

Forfeiture of entire interest. 

Fine and imprisonment. 

Forfeiture of entire interest. 

Forfeiture of excess of interest. 

Forfeiture of entire interest. 

Forfeiture of ex. of in. above 12 per cent. 

Forfeiture of entire interest. 

Forfeiture of entire interest. 

Forfeiture of excess of interest. 

Forfeiture of ex. of in. above 7 per cent. 
No Usury Law in this State. 
Forfeiture of excess of interest. 
Forfeiture of entire interest. 

Forfeiture of entire interest. 

Forfeiture of thrice the excess and costs. 
Forfeiture of entire interest. 

Forfeiture of contract. 
Forfeiture of entire interest. 
Forfeiture of excess above 6 per cent. 



Forfeiture of excess of interest. 
Forfeiture of excess of interest. 

Forfeiture of excess of interest. 
Forfeiture of entire interest. 

Forfeiture of excess of interes - 
Forfeiture of entire interest. 



* Except in cases d :fin<:d by statutes of the State. 



MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION. 



185 



STATE LAWS 

Relating to Limitations op Actions : Showing Limit of Time in which 
Action may be Brought on the following : 



States and Tereitories. 



Alabama 

Arkansas 

California, 

Colorado 

Connecticut 

Dakota 

Delaware 

District ot Columbia . 

Florida 

Georgia 

Idaho 

Illinois 

Indiana 

Iowa 

Kansas 

Kentucky 

Louisiana 

Maine 

Maryland 

Massachusetts 

Michigan 

Minnesota 

Mississippi 

Missouri... 

Montana 

Nebraska 

Nevada 

New Hampshire 

New Jersey 

New Mexico 

New York 

North Carolina 

Ohio 

Ontario (U. Canada).. 

Oregon 

Pennsylvania 

Quebec (L. Canada).. 

Rhode Island 

South Carolina 

Tennessee 

Texas 

Utah 

Vermont 

Virginia 

Washington Territory 

West Virginia 

Wisconsin 

Wy omi ng 



Assault 

slander, 

&c. 


Open 
Accts. 


Notes. 


Judg- 
ments. 


Sealed and 
witnessed 
Instru- 
ments. 


Years. 
I 


Years. 

3 


Years. 

6 


Years. 
20 


Years. 
IO 


I 


3 


5 


IO 


IO 


I 
I 

3 

2 


2 

6 
6 
6 


4 
6 
6 
6 


5 

3 

20 

20 


5 

3 

17 

20 


I 


3 


6 


20 


20 


I 
2 
I 


3 
4 
4 




5 
6 


12 

20 

7 


12 

20 
20 


2 
I 

2 


2 

5 
6 


4 

IO 
20 


5 
20 
2o 


5 

10 
20 


2 


5 


IO 


20 


10 


I 
I 

I 

2 


3 

2 

3 
6 


5 
15 

5 
20 


5 

15 
10 
20 


15 
15 
20 

20 


I 

2 
2 


3 
6 
6 


3 

20 

6 


12 

20 
6 


12 
20 
10 


2 


6 


6 


10 


6 


I 

2 


3 

5 


6 
10 


7 
20 


7 
10 


2 


5 


10 


10 


10 


I 

2 
2 

2 


4 

2 

6 
6 


5 
4 
6 
6 


5 
5 

20 
20 


10 

4 
20 
16 


I 


6 


10 


10 


IO 


2 


6 


6 


20 


20 


3 
i 

2 


3 
6 
6 


3 

15 

6 


10 

15 
20 


10 

15 
20 


2 


6 


6 


IO 


20 


I 


6 


6 


20 


20 


I 
I 


5 
6 


5 
6 


30 

20 


30 
20 


2 
I 


6 
6 


6 
6 


20 

IO 


20 
6 


I 


2 


4 


IO 


5 


I 
2 


2 
6 


4 
4 


5 
8 


7 
8 


I 

2 


5 
3 


5 
6 


10 
6 


20 
6 


I 


5 


10 


10 


10 


2 


6 


6 


20 


20 


I 


6 


IS 


15 


*5 



PRODUCTIONS OF AGRICULTURE, STATE OF ILLINOIS, BY C0UNTIES.-I870. 



JOUNTIES 

Total 

Adams 

Alexander 

Bond 

Boone 

Brown 

Bureau 

Calhoun 

Carroll 

Cass 

Champaign 

Christian 

Clark 

Clay 

Clinton 

Coles 

Cook 

Crawford 

Cumberland 

DeKalb 

DeWitt 

Douglas 

DuPage 

Edgar 

Edwards 

Effingham 

Fayette 

Ford 

Franklin 

Fulton 

Gallatin 

Greene 

Grundy.. 

Hamilton 

Hancock , 

Hardin 

Henderson 

Henry 

Iroquois... — . 

Jackson 

Jasper 

Jefferson 

Jersey 

JoDaviess 

■Johnson 

Kane 

Kankakee 

Kendall 

Knox 

Z^ake 

LaSalle 

Lawrence 

Lee.. 

Livingston 

Logan 

Macon 

Macoupin 

Madison 

Marion 

Marshall . 

Mason 

Massac 

McDonough 

McHenry 

McLean 

Menard 

Mercer 

Monroe 

Montgomery 

Morgan .' 

Moultrie 

Ogle 

Peoria 

Perry 

Piatt 

Pike 

Pope 

Pulaski 

Putnam 

Randolph 

Richland 

Rock Island 

Saline 

Sangamon 

Schuyler 

Scott 

Shelby 

Stark 

St. Clair 

Stephenson 

Tazewell 

Union 

Vermilion 

Wabash 

AVarren 

Washington 

Wayne 

White 

Whitesides 

Will 

Williamson 

Winnebago 

Woodford 



Improved 
Land. 



Number. 
19.329,95a 



N umbel 
5,061.57 



other un- 
improved 



Number. 
1.491.331 



287, 

13, 
145, 
137. 

57, 
398, 

37, 
186, 

92. 
419, 
241, 
118, 
146. 
150, 
208, 
348, 
105, 

75, 
334, 
168, 
147, 
164, 
^65, 

58, 
120, 
187, 
141, 

80, 
228, 

49, 
175, 
193, 

88, 
311, 

28, 
140, 
265, 
322, 

78, 

90, 
118, 

94, 
156, 

57, 
240, 
312, 
164. 
330, 
207, 
533, 

87, 
322, 
377, 
321, 
205, 
231, 
257, 
173 
166 
209, 

25, 
261, 
230. 
494, 
134, 
222 

92 
276 
293, 
144, 
316 
170, 

93, 

94, 
233 

55 

19, 

37. 
140 

75, 
155 

72 
421, 

96, 

85. 
310, 
138, 
231, 
254, 
229. 

75, 
360, 

54. 
266. 
177 
147, 

92, 
289, 
419 
128 
241, 
225, 



926 

830 
111.-, 
307 
062 
611 
OS 4 
HOI 
0O2 

:;io 

4 

59 1 
922 
177 
33 

S21 

505 

34 

502 

539 

633 

874 

458 

912 

313 

196 

228 

7 19 

132 

57: 

-108 

999 

996 

517 

117 

95 1 

90 1 

510 

548 

867 

951 

1 4 7 

51 

820 

120 

182 

001 

829 

779 

724 

S2> 

212 

505 

709 

259 

059 

032 

OSl 
(157 

4 53 
151 
63.i 
5li6 
97s 
173 
809 
810 
6S2 
4 50 
220 
883 

29 

54 
454 

85 
980 
:;19 
271 
764 
079 

14 
309 
74S 
195 
331 
179 
129 

117 

857 
126 
832 
251 

063 
187 
592 
352 
398 
809 
4 12 
448 
3 73 
50 1 



112,576 
17.761 
42,613 
29,886 
35,491 
41,866 
63.443 
29,793 
33,493 
16,789 
19,803 

102,201 
80,612 
48.868 
45,214 
19,635 
78,350 
40,334 
17,722 
29,548 
11,89: 
17,243 
66,803 
57,585 
56,330 
93,460 
2,996 
3,994 

123,823 
68,750 
93.242 
6,256 
93,878 
43,385 
44,771 
34,705 
12,620 
22,478 
87,642 
67,023 
94,888 
51,427 
82,076 
3 
34,646 
10,978 
14,244 
41,566 
21,072 
48, 117 
72,738 
12,071 
12,462 
17,394 
18,153 
81,224 
89,450 
61,579 
>'8,26o 
31,739 
33,39b 
52,547 
53,293 
40,36b 
34.931 
45,977 
83,369 
47,804 
60,217 
24,783 
43,643 
48,666 
68,470 
5,978 

128,953 
87,754 
12,516 
17,184 

162,274 
50,618 
31,239 
70.393 
51,085 
62.477 
44,633 
74,908 
12,375 
76,591 
43.167 
45,268 
83.606 
53.078 
37.558 
27,294 
55,852 

146,794 
78,167 
21.823 
24,261 

116,949 
37,238 
25,217 



19,370 



1.915 

2,658 

25.608 

15,803 

2,754 

33,302 

6,604 

58,502 

19,173 

5,420 

5,225 

8,722 

3,274 

17,337 

27,185 

5,604 

6,551 

17,633 

7,316 

3.851 

14,282 

830 

26,206 

16,786 

63,9" ' 

86,710 

4,076 

2,565 

29.653 

4,505 

3,343 

i8/r 

107 

14,243 

31,459 

63,498 

5,991 

12,250 

778 

1,363 

45,779 

.79,141 

399 

10,598 

2,283 

25,155 

24,399 

2,356 

3,273 

7,409 

41,788 

408 

9,115 

7,343 

13,675 

4.142 

2,976 

31,013 

30 

14,035 

57,998 

49,087 

13,952 

22,588 

666 

8,495 

1,376 

13,112 

14,913 

2,516 

220 

13,897 

9,302 



4.174 
1.170 
2 025 

20,755 
809 

19,932 

21.294 
1,610 
9,314 
2,783 
2,016 

13,701 

14,846 
5,300 

31,122 
509 

14,583 
1,931 

10,486 
869 

37.310 
6,335 
1,648 

15.237 

23,135 



Spring 
Wheat. 



Bushels. 
10.133.207 



Winter 
Wheat. 



Rye. 



Bushels. 
19.995,198 



Bushels. 
2.456.578 



Indian 
Corn. 



Bushels. 
129.921.395 



16.191 



700 
241,042 

13,2 

465,236 

75 

418,073 

12,165 

102,577 

18,360 



1,894 

500 

2,651 

144,296 

60 

550 

398,059 

106,493 

7,683 

106,096 

13,283 



77 



42,571 

365 

193,669 



21,700 

129 

181,378 

13 

161,112 

462,379 

57,160 

890 



282,758 



188,826 
103,466 
90,681 
267,764 
168,914 
271,181 



450,793 

120,206 

198,056 

55,239 

160 

550 



106,129 
73,261 



273,871 

401,790 

211,801 

36,152 

289,291 



59 

18,196 

17,128 

497,038 

92,361 



26,382 
130 



28,137 
450 



243,541 

200 

■ 89,304 

56,221 

18 

15,526 

124,630 

2,550 

527,394 

132,417 



44,806 
'186)890 
266 



457,455 
195,286 
176 
408,606 
178,139 



947,616 

42,658 

368.625 

599 

117.502 

724 

221,298 

260 

127,054 

123,091 

504,041 

195.118 

85,73 

610.888 

154,485 

4,904 

212,924 

84,697 

190 

11,695 

65,461 

693 

247,360 

122,703 

195,716 

351,310 

1,008 

111,324 

223,930 

83,093 

577,400 

150 

92,34 

232,750 

32,306 

69,062 

44 

10,480 

329,036 

87.808 

100,553 

558,367 

555 

92.191 

325 

480 

1,249 

7,654 

221 

2,193 

264,134 

2,260 

1,339 

40,963 

196,613 

861,398 

1,207,181 

173,652 

900 

125,628 

72.316 

36,146 

270 

10,955 

45,793 

13,203 

651,767 

744,891 

357,523 

196,436 

5,580 

31.843 

350.446 

39.762 

1,057,497 

70,457 

44,922 

796 

1,031,022 

150.268 

2.279 

83.011 

247,658 

165,721 

266,105 

452,015 



1,562.621 

2,118 

72,410 

180,231 

249,558 

202.201 

5,712 

672,486 

164,689 

184,321 

264 

1,996 
170.787 

2,468 
108,307 



20,989 

30 

6,240 

35,871 

4,742 

43,811 

1 

25,721 

2.772 

45,75: 

10.722 

7,308 

3,221 

1,619 

8,825 

20,171 

15,49 

14,798 

21,018 

11 540 

9,011 

7.53S 

37,508 

528 

19,759 

25,328 

11,57 

5.195 

131,711 

512 

415 

4,930 

11,672 

133,533 

865 

96,430 

35,766 

23,259 

524 

9,165 

5,934 



7.185 

2,468 

23.618 

12,935 

5,163 

113,547 

5,870 

48,308 

1,121 

14,829 

26,163 

37.232 

29,223 

2.404 

3.685 

1'4,517 

36,135 

49,182 

544 

52,401 

29,264 

39,824 

4,283 

40.778 

1,425 

3,29b 

5,535 

6,670 

157,504 

99,502 

1,01b 

9,248 

25,303 

2,309 

222 

7,707 

3,235 

3.401 

20,003 

568 

23,073 

20,841 

930 

23.686 

30.534 

1,008 

135,362 

59,027 

1,737 

52,476 



72,212 

2,576 

8,665 

418 

31,658 

8,030 

6.228 

137,985 

20,426 



1,452,905 

244,220 

1,064.052 

466,985 

337.769 

3,030,404 

234,041 

1,367.965 

1,146,980 

3,924,720 

1,883,336 

614,582 

1,019,994 

813.25" 

2,133.111 

570.4X 

581,964 

403,075 

1,023,849 

1,311,635 

1,680,225 

331,981 

2,107,615 

352,371 

620,24 

962,525 

565,671 

653,209 

1,508,763 

509,491 

1,051,313 

295,971 

735,252 

1,510,401 

172.651 

1, VS. Mil 

2,541,683 

799,810 

611,951 

461,345 

887,981 

519,120 

1,286,326 

343,298 

674,333 

637.39<. 

681,267 

2,708,319 

517,353 

3,077.028 

656,363 

1,656,978 

1,182,696 

4,221,640 

2,214,468 

1,051,544 

2.127,549 

1,034,057 

1,182,903 

2,648,72b 

133,126 

1,362,490 

1,145.005 

3,723,379 

1,973,880 

2,054,962 

543,718 

1,527,898 

3,198,835 

1,753.141 

1,787,066 

969,224 

384.446 

1.029.725 

1,399,188 

315,958 

195,735 

334,259 

510,080 

482,594 

1,459,653 

531,516 

4,388,763 

440,975 

752,771 

2,082,578 

1,149878 

1,423.121 

1.615,679 

2,062,053 

679,753 

2,818,027 

421,361 

2,982,853 

836,115 

1,179,291 

870.521 

2,162,943 

1.131,458 

655.710 

1.237.406 

2,154.185 





V- c^^k^TZt^i 



(DECEAS ED.) 

FREEPORT. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



TOPOGRAPHY. 

Is bounded on the east by Winnebago, on the south by Ogle and Carroll, 
on the west by Jo Daviess, and on the north by Green County, Wis. It 
thus lies in the northern tier of counties in the State, and is the second county 
eastward from the Mississippi River. It is twenty-seven miles wide from east 
to west, and about twenty-one from its northern to its southern boundary line, 
containing 573 square miles. The northern part of the county, according to 
surveys made by the Illinois Central Railroad Company, averages about 723 
feet above the level of the Mississippi River at Cairo, about 415 feet above the 
level of Lake Michigan, and about 1,000 feet above the level of the sea. The 
southern part of the county averages some 250 feet lower than these averages. 
The general level of the country, it will thus be seen, presents a gentle slope to 
southern sunny skies. The general surface, or face of the country, is composed 
of gently undulating and rather rolling prairie land, interspersed with small 
groves and narrow belts of timber lands skirting the streams. A small portion 
of the county is made up of barrens and oak orchards or openings. The prairie 
soil is of unsurpassed fertility, and under a high state of cultivation and improve- 
ment. It is not so black and deep as the prairie soil further south ; but is 
drier, sandier, lighter or more chocolate colored, producing in great perfection 
all the staple crops of the northern part of the State. The oak openings and 
other poorer portions of the county produce the best wheat and other cereal 
grains, the best potatoes raised in the State, very excellent apples, and pears' 
of the hardier varieties, and with proper care and cultivation will nourish the 
vine and ripen its fruitage to a greater extent than is now dreamed of by the 
grape-growers and wine-makers of the West. Indeed, the day is coming, when 
its gravelly hills and loess clay will not only blush with the purple clusters of 
such vines as best endure the cold climate, but will also become sources of profit 
to their cultivators, and of exquisite pleasure to those who delight in using 
healthful, invigorating, pure wines. The soil of this county, as of all these 
northern counties, also produces and ripens in great perfection the currant, 
gooseberry, strawberry, raspberry and other garden fruits. 

The county is reasonably well watered with streams, which flow in various 
directions over its surface- Of these, the Pecatonica is the largest and most 
important. It enters the county about seven miles from its northwest corner, 
flows in a course a little south of east to Freeport, bends round to the westward 
at this latter place, and enters the county of Winnebago, not far from the 
center of its western boundary lines. Its waters are turbid and muddy as the 
"Yellow Tiber;" its course is serpentine and crooked beyond comparison, 
winding and doubling upon itself in the most capricious manner ; its current 
slow-flowing, treacherous and silent, notwithstanding the general difference in 



190 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

level between the northern and southern portions of the county, affording few 
water powers, and they of limited fall, but heavy and constant in their action. 
This is pre-eminently true of the six feet fall at Freeport, but hardly so true of 
the power at Martin's mill, just across the northern line of the county. Indeed, 
so far as a description of the stream is concerned, the dispute as to the Indian 
significance of the name " Pecatonica," "Muddy Water" and "Crooked 
Stream," might be well reconciled by adopting both meanings, and applying 
them with much truth to this tortuous body of flowing mud. Along portions 
of its course, its oozy banks and stagnant waters might breed miasms and 
fevers, were its influences not counteracted by the general healthfulness and 
salubrity of the climate of Northern Illinois. Yellow Creek enters the county 
almost at the center of its western boundary line, and flows into the Pecatonica 
two or three miles below and east of Freeport, its general course being a little 
south of east. Its waters have a yellowish, somewhat creamy color, and are 
slow floating like the Pecatonica. The color of its waters is derived from the 
Cincinnati shales along its banks, which dissolve and mingle with the water 
like yellow cream with muddy coffee. Its course is not so crooked as the 
Pecatonica. It wanders about in long, undulating swerves, instead of short, 
abrupt doublings. It affords few water powers, and they of limited extent. 
Cedar and Richland Creeks rise almost entirely within the county toward its- 
northern and central parts, flow southward, mingle their waters together within 
a few miles of the Pecatonica, and empty into the latter stream a few miles 
above Freeport. Both these streams afford light but constant water powers. 
They are not mountain born, but are fed by prairie and woodland springs, 
almost entirely within the boundaries of the county lines. Rock Run enters 
the county about four miles from its northeast corner, and empties, after run- 
ning about four miles on an air line, into the Pecatonica, about one and a half 
miles west of where it crosses the western line of Winnebago County. This is 
a beautiful little stream, affording a few light water powers. It goes babbling 
and murmuring along through rich prairie farms and woodland groves, until 
within a half a dozen miles of its mouth. Here the banks rise to precipitous, 
brush-covered, timber-covered hills, and in a few miles further, the low alluvial 
bottom of the Pecatonica is entered, through which it seeks its way with less 
haste into the dirty waters of the latter stream. Cranes Creek is a small and 
short prairie stream or brook, flowing into the Yellow Creek nearly south of 
Freeport, coming in from near the center of the southern boundarv line of the 
county. Besides these, there are many brooks, rivulets and little streams in 
various parts of the county, watering it reasonably well, both for agricultural 
and stock purp< ses. Nor should the mention of the bright, flashing, singing 
little Silver Creek be omitted ; this runs through the town of the same name, 
and finds its way into Yellow Creek not far from its mouth. 

In comparison with most northern counties, Stephenson might be said to be 
well timbered. The Pecatonica is skirted, more especially along its eastern 
bank, with a body of rather heavy timber, spreading out northward into the 
town of Oneco, for a considerable distance. Yellow Creek is fringed, for a 
part of its course, with a scattering growth of white oak-groves and clumps 
spreading across from Mill Grove to Eleroy and Sciota mills, into oak openings 
and a somewhat rough soil. Part of the town of Loran, in the southwest portion 
of the county, is a regular white-oak barren, with scattering trees and some 
brush-wood. Crane's Grove, lying south of Freeport, is about three miles long 
and more than a mile wide. Lynn and walnut groves dot the broad expanse of 
prairie in the northeastern part of the county, with a grateful exchange in 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 191 

the monotony of the prairie view. Cedar Creek has some good timber along 
its course. Richland Creek is shadowed by the heaviest body of good timber 
perhaps in the whole county. 

The prevailing timber consists of white, black and burr oak, sugar maple, 
black walnut, butternut, pignut, shellbark and common hickory, slippery and 
water elm, yellow poplar, with occasional laurel, red cedar, white pine, paw- 
paw, and some of the rarer oaks interspersed ; sumach and hazel also abound 
in and around all the groves ; wild cherry, honey locust, linden or basswood, 
ash, cotton-wood sycamore and some other varieties of timber are more or less 
to be noticed, and in some particular localities are found in considerable abun- 
dance. 

Such, in brief, are the topographical features of Stephenson County — a 
county whose agricultural resources are not surpassed by those of any county 
in Northern Illinois. Indeed, it would be hard to find an equal area anywhere 
in the State whose soil is so universally good, productive and teeming in every 
bountiful gift to the industrious tillers of the earth. No mineral wealth or 
peculiar manufacturing facilities will attract to this county the attention of the 
adventurous, but for those resources which are derived from a rich soil and 
abundant agricultural capabilities, this favored county may well claim a last- 
ing pre-eminence. 

GEOLOGICAL FORMATIONS. 

The geology of Stephenson County is of a very simple character. After- 
leaving the surface geology, the first formation met in a descending order is the 
Niagara limestone, succeeded in regular order by the Cincinnati shales, and 
the three divisions of the Trenton period, namely, the Galena, Blue and Buff 
limestones of the old Trenton seas. The following sections show the actual 
worked exposures of these rocks as measured in the quarries by the Hon. 
James Shaw, of Mt. Carroll, from whose writings on the subject the preced- 
ing and following have been taken : 

SECTION OF WORKED OUTCROPS. 

Quaternary deposits, consisting of clays, sands, gravels, etc 10 to 65 feet. 

Niagara limestone 23 " 

Cincinnati group 40 " 

Galena limestone 75 " 

Blue limestone 38 " 

Bluff limestone 40 " 

Each of these groups or formations outcrops at some place or places in the 
county. Some of them are the immediate underlying rocks over large portions 
of the same. 

As further illustrating the geological formations of this county, and more 
especially those which lie deep down in the earth, an imperfect section, obtained 
from the borings of the Rocky Farm oil well, is given. This well was com- 
menced in 18t54, and continued on through a great part of the year 1865. At 
that time the oil fever was prevailing extensively. Some surface indications 
were noticed in a small brook running through the north part of Section 6, in 
the town of Lancaster. A company was formed, an engine obtained, and a 
hole six inches in diameter drilled into the earth for over 800 feet. No oil 
was obtained, no indications of oil noticed, after leaving the surface, and the 
enterprise was finally abandoned. Although very unprofitable to the company, 
this boring was not devoid of scientific interest. After boring about eight feet 
through the overlying soil and clays, the Galena limstone was struck. No 



192 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

very accurate record of the material passed through for the first 120 fee c 
was kept, but from the fact that the Galena limestone outcrops heavily at 
Cedarville, only a mile or two distant, being there seventy-five or eighty feet 
thick in the exposure on Cedar Creek, it is believed the well in this 120 feet 
passed out of the Galena limestone, and reached perhaps a considerable dis- 
tance into the blue limestones, immediately underlying. Commencing at 120 
feet beneath the surface, a section of strata and materials bored through is 
o-iven, until the depth of 608 feet was reached, as indicated by the detritus 
brought to the surface by the auger. No record of the last 250 feet seems to 
have been kept. 

SECTION OF OIL WELL ON ROCKY FARM. 

120 to 130 feet, blue limestone and mud veins 10 feet. 

130 '■ 146 " gray limestone, containing crevices 16 " 

146 " 168 " shales of various kinds 22 " 

168 " 375 " St. Peter's sandstone, soft and very white 207 " 

375 " 484 " red sandstone, with tough, paint-like mud veins 109 " 

484 " 487 " yellow, sand-like surface sand 3 " 

487 " 491 " quicksand and salty water 4 ' ; 

491 " 494 '.' bright yellow, fine salty sand 3 " 

494 " 501 " slate of chalky color and nature 7 '• 

501 " 520 " snuif-colored, slaty rocks 19 " 

520 " 532 " sharp, slate-colored sand 12 " 

532 " 564 " dark red stone, like soapstone, with thin, flinty strata and 

iron pyrites 32 " 

564 " 586 " bright red stone, slightly only 22 '• 

586 " 608 " dark reddish slate, with iron pyrites 22 " 

At the depth of about 60 feet from the surface, some dark-colored carbon- 
ferous shales were struck. These must have belonged to the Blue limestone 
underlying the Galena, and, perhaps, are near the dividing line between the two. 
From thence to the depth of 168 feet the blue and buff limestones of the Tren- 
ton period were undoubtedly the rocks passed through. The next 207 feet 
was the St. Peter sandstone. There could be no mistake as to this ; the auger 
brought it up pure, white and crumbly. The next 109 feet, although it strongly 
resembled the St. Peter's sandstone, was stained by water holding iron in 
solution, and belongs, perhaps, to the calciferous sandstone, or lower magnesian 
limestone of the Northwest. The next 121 feet almost loses its identity, but, 
perhaps belongs to the lower calciferous sandstones, and to the Potsdam sand- 
stone. Chemical analysis of the materials brought to the surface, aided by a 
strong magnifying glass, may show these surmises to be partially untrue. 

Some importance is to be attached to the above section, because it is a 
matter of much interest to the citizens of Stephenson County, and because 
it aiforded an opportunity for making even a partial examination of the deep 
underlying foundations. It also settled another question for a long time agitat- 
ing the public mind in this part of the State. Before this experiment, geologi- 
cal science had foretold that no productive oil deposits-could or would be found 
in this part of the country. It had predicted this from knowledge of the under- 
lying strata, and their inability to collect and preserve the oily treasures of the 
earth. But capitalists lacked faith in the teachings of science, and acquired in 
the school of experience the lessons which they would nowhere else learn. The 
experiment of this well had a wonderful influence in allaying the oil fever in 
this region. 

The following is a description of the out cropping geological formations, for 
which the heartiest acknowledgments are also tendered ex-Speaker Shaw : 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 193 

QUATERNARY DEPOSITS. 

The deposits cover unconformably the underlying rocks to a varying depth. 
At some places they are five or ten feet thick ; at others, they perhaps extend in 
thickness to sixty or seventy feet. To say that they average twenty-five or 
thirty feet all over the county, would, perhaps, be placing the figures safely 
within the bounds of truth. If all this accumulation of deposited materials 
could be removed, the surface of the underlying rocks would present a very 
rough and uneven surface, scooped-out depressions, extending through over- 
lying formations, and over large portions of the country, presenting, if 
filled with water, the phenomena of broad shallow lakes. The mounds, 
rising like watch-towers, over these prairies (resisting, on account of some 
local cause or hardness, the denuding agencies that carried away the rest 
of the formation), would appear like islands in the surrounding waste of 
waters. The rocky surface thus left, so far as can be judged by limited exam- 
inations, would be unsmoothed by water current and unscratched by glacier, 
but would be everywhere uneven, rough and covered with unworn fragments of 
stone. 

Along the narrow bottoms of the Pecatonica may be noticed a strip of 
alluvium proper. At some places it is very narrow; at others, it extends to 
one or two miles in width. The same deposit may be observed at a few local- 
ities along the Yellow Creek bottom, and also along the narrow bottoms of some 
of the smaller streams. The deposit, however, is of limited extent ; it is rich, 
fat and heavy as an agricultural and timber soil. Along some of these streams 
the low, bold hills are found to be composed of the loess marls and clays ; but 
this deposit is also of quite limited extent in the country. All the rest of these 
superficial deposits belong to the sands, clays and gravels of the drifts proper. 
These clays, and clayey sands, however, do not very strongly furnish the evidences 
of deposition or transportation. They seem to partake, in part at least, of the 
nature and character of the rock formations lying immediately below them. 
Where the Galena limestone is the underlying rock, the appearance seemed, 
upon examination, to have been somewhat as follows : First, there was the 
prairie soil and clayey sub-soil, at most only a few feet in thickness ; this was 
succeeded by a reddish-brown clay, mixed with flints and pieces of cherty 
Galena limestone. Then came the clay and pieces of limestone, preserving 
their regular stratification, the limestone becoming more abundant in the 
descent until the solid rock strata were reached. In a few instances, this over- 
lying clay is creamy in color, and almost limey in texture ; but the prevail- 
ing color is reddish-brown or red, and in many cases it is more or less mixed 
with sand. The clays overlying the Cincinnati shades also bear a resem- 
blance to this formation, from which they are doubtless in part derived. 
They are of a creamy or more chocolate color finer in texture and freer from 
sand. These superficial clays and loams certainly have the appearance of 
being the residuem left after frost and water had pulverized and, by percolation, 
removed, the more soluble portions of the uppermost parts of the formaftions 
below. 

But, aside from these deposits, the gravel beds and bowlders of the true 
drift period are not wanting in this county. That part lying west of the 
Illinois Central Railroad and south of Yellow Creek, being mostly low, level, 
prairie, underlaid mostly by the Cincinnati shales, and also that low, rich, 
level part between Waddam's Mound and the range of mounds running from 
the neighborhood of Warren toward the southwest, and underlaid by the 



194 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

Galena limestone, may almost be denominated a driftless region. Few 
bowlders are seen over it, and few or no real gravel deposits can be found. 
The prairies north and east of Waddams' Grove have strewed over them num- 
berless bowlders, some black, some flame-colored, and some combining the vari- 
ous colors of the metamorphic rocks. At one place, about halfway between 
Waddams' Grove and Winslow, they are rolled into windrows along the road, 
and used in part for the lane fences. Many of these are exceedingly beautiful 
and many colored. They are the real "lost rocks," and must have been 
dropped from the slow-moving icebergs, as they drifted along toward the south- 
west. All that part of the country north and east of the Pecatonica is char- 
acterized by these bowlders, and many deposits of gravel and gravelly clay are 
to be met with in almost any of the low ridges of land. The same may be said 
of the eastern portion of the county, excepting that the deposits are not so 
extensive. 

Some other formations belonging to the surface geology, such as fire clay, 
peat, bog-iron ore, muck and the like, will be referred to in the economical geol- 
ogy of the county. 

THE NIAGARA LIMESTONE. 

The superficial extent of the county covered by this formation is quite 
small. Waddams' Grove, quite a high elevation of land, two or three miles 
long and a mile or two wide, and located a little northwest of Lena, is capped 
by the Niagara limestone. At French's quarry, near the top end of this eleva- 
tion facing toward Lena, there is an exposure worked to the depth of about 
fifteen feet. French's well, near the same spot, is forty -five feet deep, the 
upper twenty feet being sunk through this formation, and the lower twenty- 
five feet sinking through the underlying Cincinnati shales. At Blakesly's 
quarry, twenty-five feet of the same formation is worked into. This is about 
one mile west of French's, on the north face of the hill. Here they have 
worked down to the Cincinnati shales. The bottom layers in both these quar- 
ries are compact and solid ; the top layers are thick, irregular, speckled and 
porous. A species of slender, rotten Oynthophyllum was the only fossil observed 
in these quarries. From the latter quarry the prospect toward the north and 
west is beautiful beyond description. The low, level, rich prairie, with its 
fields and meadows, barns and farm-houses, skirted in the distance by the range 
of mounds, bending around like a distant amphitheater into Jo Daviess County, 
presents as fine a scene beneath a glowing June sun, as can be observed in any 
State. 

Leaving this elevation, the Niagara is next found outcropping in the south- 
western part of the county. Its extent can be indicated by a line which should 
enter the county from the west in the town of Kent, some three miles south of 
Simmons' Mound, then following the general course of Yellow Creek, keeping 
distant from that stream two to five miles, until nearly opposite to Crane's Grove, 
then southward until the south boundary line of the county is reached, near it, 
bi-section with the Illinois Central Railroad track. This line would cut off that 
portion of the county underlaid by the Niagara rocks. And even in this, some 
of the small streams which come into Yellow Creek through this section cut into 
the Cincinnati group; and a band of the Cincinnati group along Lashell's Hol- 
low, where the little village of Loharn is located, also discloses the shales and 
quarries of this group. ****** 

This formation is not much marred in this portion of the county. At Big 
Springs in Lashell Hollow, quite a quantity of stone has been taken out. Few 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 195 

fossils were to be observed, except that great quantities of some of the rougher 
Niagara corals lie strewnover the hills about Loharn, consistiug of two or three 
species of Favosites and some imperfect Halysites. 

Cincinnati Group. — The rocks and shales of this group cover but a lim- 
ited extent of this county. All that part of Waddam's Grove, between the level 
of the surrounding prairie and the capping Niagara, is composed of the shales 
and rocks of this group. The gentle slopes of the ascent, and the creamy, col- 
ored waters of the springs, are an unfailing index of this formation. No quar- 
ries are opened in it, but it is here, perhaps, forty feet thick. The broad belt 
south of Yellow Creek, crossing this stream in the township of Kent, extending 
up into the southwest corner of the township of West Point, as indicated on the 
general map, has been referred to sufficiently, perhaps, in speaking of the pre- 
vious formation. About the village of Loharn, the hills on either side of the 
creek, to their top, are composed of the Cincinnati rocks and shales. Many 
quarries are opened in the face of the hills, and fair building stone is obtained. 
The worked outcrops are here fifteen or twenty feet thick. Following the creek 
to the northward from here a few miles, the Cincinnati formation runs under, 
and the Niagara takes its place. In the half-township of Erie, just west of the 
village of Eleroy, there is quite an elevation of land, covering several sections, 
and crowned with a scattering grove, which is made up exclusively of the Cin- 
cinnati formation. On the west end of the village of New Dublin, there is a 
quarried outcrop some forty feet deep. A Catholic chapel is built out of the 
stones of this quarry. 

The Trenton Limestone. — This formation as now recognized by geolo- 
gists embraces the Galena. The Trenton proper, or blue, and the buff lime- 
stones — these formations are well-marked and easily distinguishable, and will 
be referred to under their appropriate heads. 

The Galena Limestone. — Nearly three-fourths of Stephenson County is 
underlaid by this well-known division of the Trenton rocks. And, inasmuch as 
the railroad cuts and the streams afford the best facilities to study the geologic 
formations of this county, they will be considered. The Illinois Central enters 
the county at Warren, near its northwest corner. It passes over a low, smooth 
prairie, without outcrop or stone quarry, to Lena. Waddam's Grove, which 
stands in this prairie, shows that the Galena limestone underlies it. At Lena, 
there is a quarry and a limekiln within a short distance of the town, reposing 
some fifteen feet in thickness. About two miles farther, there is another; both 
on a little stream toward the north. Passing on toward the southeast, the 
railroads exhibit several small sections in the top of the Galena beds, but do 
not afford any heavy section until Freeport is reached. Just west of the city, 
along the track of the railroad, and near the banks of the Pecatonica River, in 
a low range of hills, three extensive quarries are worked, furnishing stone for 
lime and for the large amount of building material needed. The first nearest 
the city is worked about eighteen feet deep. The rock obtained here is very 
soft, yellow, sandy and full of cavities the size of a walnut. Where heaps of it 
have been removed, a considerable amount of sand is left scattered on the 
ground. The top layers of this quarry are so friable and crumbling, that hand 
specimens will hardly remain in shape. The second quarry exposes an outcrop 
of about twenty -four feet. The third is exactly similar to the second. Both 
of them are somewhat shaly toward the top. but rapidly grow massive and 
solid as they are worked into. The Western Union Railroad enters the county 
on a line almost exactly south of Freeport, and passes out of it four miles south 
of its northeast corner. Three miles southwest of Freeport, it cuts through the 



196 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

top of the rock under consideration, exposing the usual red clay, and over this 
a gravelly subsoil. About three miles northwest of Freeport, there is an exactly 
similar cut. About a mile further on toward the northwest is another, which 
measures 1,000 feet long and twenty-four feet deep in the middle. Further 
on, and a little over a mile west of Rock City, is another cut 350 yards long 
and fifteen feet deep in the solid stone at the deepest place, and the stone 
covered by about ten feet of the usual gravelly clay. Here the stone is hard, 
glassy, conchoidal in fracture, and begins to assume the characteristics of the 
blue or Trenton proper. One-half a mile further on and nearer Rock City, 
there is a cut about twelve feet deep, the lowest part exposing the real blue 
limestone. Further on, and one mile east of Dacotah, there is another cut in 
the yellow Galena. Further on, at the railroad bridge over Rock Run, there 
is a cut about twenty-two feet deep. The first four feet is the usual reddish 
clay, the next twelve feet is Galena limestone, assuming characteristics of the 
blue, and the last five feet is into the blue itself. The union of the Galena and 
blue, passing into each other almost perceptibly, may be satisfactorily examined 
here. The next and last cut is about one-fourth of a mile east of Davis, almost 
on the county line. It is over 1,000 feet long and thirty-one feet deep ; the 
upper seven feet is the usual clay, with some gravel in it : the lower twenty- 
four feet is Galena limestone, solid, a little bluish in color and of a somewhat 
conchoidal fracture. In fact, all these exposures along the eastern part of the 
county, in their blue color, conchoidal fracture and hardness, differ consider- 
ably from the Freeport quarries. They are lower down in the series, and 
assimilate somewhat into the character of the blue below. So true is this that 
in some of the exposures it is hard to fix upon the line of separation between 
the two. 

From Freeport, south along the railroad track, no other exposures of the 
Galena limestone are visible. 

Leaving the railroad cuts, the streams present the next best opportunities 
to trace the superficial area, thickness and phenomena of this deposit. The 
Pecatonica River, about four or five miles after entering the county, strikes the 
Galena limestone, and for its whole distance in the county, exposes this forma- 
tion where any rocks are exposed along its banks. There are no very good 
exposures, however, on this stream, except those at Freeport, already referred 
to. At Bobtown, or New Pennsylvania, an outcrop is worked near the river, 
and at or near the mouth of Yellow Creek the formation is dug into in an old 
crevice lead mine. Richland Creek and Cedar Creek both expose the Galena 
rocks for their entire length. Both these streams have cut deep into the solid 
rocks, and at many places along their banks heavy outcrops and escarpments 
stand out in bold relief. At Buena Vista, on the former stream, there is an out- 
crop of twenty feet, quarried into for its full depth. At Cedarville, on the lat- 
ter stream, the outcrop is seventy feet thick. A large quarry is here opened, 
out of which the stone in Adclams' mill-dam have been taken. At the Scioto 
mills, below the confluence of the two streams, and in many places in that 
neighborhood, the same rocks are exposed and quarried. Crane's Creek, where 
it washes the west end of Crane's Grove, exposes the Galena limestone, and the 
the same limestone is worked into at Rosensteel's quarry, near Freeport, to a 
depth of twenty-two feet. 

Leaving the streams, reference will next be made to other portions of the 
county examined. Burr Oak Grove, half-way between Lena and Winslow, has 
near its eastern limits an interesting outcrop. About two and a half miles west 
of the latter place, almost every little prairie hill-top is dug into, and several 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 197 

small quarries opened. An exposure of twenty-four feet was also examined at 
the limekiln, a little southeast of Rock City. The top of this quarry is Galena 
limestone, but it gradually changes into the blue before the bottom is reached. 
In the township of Ridott, the Galena is the underlying stone, changing into 
the blue toward the eastern and southeastern part. In the township of Oneco 
the formation is heavily developed. In short, the outcrop of this well-known 
formation, or division of the Trenton rocks, are so numerous that it is not neces- 
sary to particularize more fully than to briefly state their superficial boundaries 
and area. 

All that part of the country between the Pecatonica River and Yellow Creek, 
except a small strip east and south of Winslow, and except the developments 
of the Cincinnati group at Waddam's Grove, New Dublin, Kent and along the 
banks of the Yellow Creek, is underlaid by the Galena rocks. All that part 
of the county north and east of the Pecatonica River, except in the bed and 
along either side of Rock Run, is underlaid by the same. The southeastern 
part of the county, nearly up to the Pecatonica River, and nearly to the track 
of the Illinois Central Railroad, with the exception of a strip along the south- 
eastern corner and a few isolated patches in the eastern part of the township 
of Silver Creek, is also underlaid by these same rocks. 

Fossils. — Few fossils are found in the Galena limestone in Stephenson Co. 
The characteristic Heceptaculites sulcata, called by the miners and quarrymen 
" lead blossom " and " sunflower coral," is found at Freeport and Cedarville in 
great abundance, but good specimens are hard to obtain on account of the fri- 
able nature of the stone in which it is found. At the former place, a specimen 
of Heceptaculites orbicularis was noticed. Two or three species of Murchi- 
sonia, fragments of several species of Orthocera, one or two well-known 
Orthis, two species of Pleurotomaria, a small Bellerophon, and a rather well- 
defined Ambonychia, were the fossils most usually observed. They all exist in 
the form of casts, and perfect specimens are hard to find. 

THE BLUE LIMESTONE. 

This, the middle division of the Trenton, is of limited extent in this 
county. Of course, in many places marked on the map with the color indi- 
cating the Galena, a shaft sunk down a short distance would strike the blue 
limestone, but it is described as the surface rock. Rock Run cuts into the blue 
limestone soon after entering the county, and all along its banks on both sides, 
until within a mile or two of its confluence with the Pecatonica, this rock out- 
crops and shows itself. Some of the high, rocky banks, are overcapped with 
the Galena, but the usual rock is the blue. At the railroad bridge of the 
Western Union Railroad Company, over Rock Run, the railroad track is about 
six feet below the junction of the Galena and the blue. Stepping west out of 
the railroad cut, there is a perpendicular descent of thirty-three feet from the 
track down to the water level, making the whole thickness of the blue, at this 
place, about thirty-nine feet. The lower part of this outcrop is very blue, the 
upper part yellowish, with thin strata, and gradually changing in lithological 
character, until the overlying Galena just east of the bridge is reached. This 
is a very interesting section. One and a half miles below this locality is a quarry, 
opened in the west bluff of the stream. The outcrop is twenty-five feet thick. 
The top part is shaly and yellowish and the bottom becomes heavier and bluer 
in color. Some of the thin shaly strata are full of small-sized orthis. These 
two outcrops are fair representations of all the others along the stream. Some 



198 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

indications of underlying blue limestones prophesy its existence in the south- 
eastern part of the county, and have so been marked on the county map. 

Some slabs with fossils similar to those found in the Dixon marble were 
picked up ; these with the fragmentary stems of Eucrinites, were the only fos- 
sils found. A small specimen of the " sunflower coral " was found in the blue 
limestone, at Rock Run railroad bridge, the only one ever found by the party 
making the examinations in this rock. 

The Buff Limestone. — The only place where this, the lower division of 
the Trenton, is developed in this county, is at Winslow. It is doubtless the 
underlying rock for a few miles below this place and on both sides of the Pec- 
atonica River for this distance. Here it presents very much the appearance of 
a quarry in the blue. The top is shaly, thin bedded, and of a yellowish choc- 
olate color. At Martin's mill in Wisconsin, one mile above, the outcrop is 
much heavier, the bottom layers more massive and very blue. Professor Whit- 
ney pronounces these exposures of the buff, and the fossils seem to indicate 
that he is correct in this. The lithological character of the quarries would 
indicate the same thing, but in a less satisfactory manner. On either side of 
this strip of buff, and within a short distance of its outcrops, the Galena lime- 
stone comes to the surface, so that the latter seems to rest uncomfortably upon 
the former; but in following the stream to the northward, a few miles above the 
mill, the St. Peters sandstone begins to show its outliers. The quarry at 
Winslow is worked twenty-three feet deep, and at Martin's mill thirty-five feet, 
and at both places it is some ten feet from the bottom of the quarries to the 
surface of the water. Geologically, the locality is one of the most interesting 
in this part of the State. 

FOSSILS. 

Many well-preserved casts of fossils were found here. Among them the 
most characteristic were Pleurotomaria subconica; a large Orthoeera, five or 
six inches in diameter and six feet long, with a part of the shell still wanting ; 
a Cypricardites Niota; Oncoceras pandion; some two species of Tellinomya, 
etc., etc. 

ECONOMIC GEOLOGY. 

The chief sources of wealth in Stephenson County are to be found in the 
richness and productiveness of its soil, and in its abundant agricultural resources. 
It is as less waste land, and is regarded as the best agricultural county in 
the State. In her fat, rich soil, therefore, is contained the first and chiefest 
source of wealth in the county — that which nourishes all the rest, and fostering 
and building up the city of Freeport in a wonderful manner. But, aside from 
this, there are other sources of wealth and industry demanding attention. 

CLAYS AND SANDS. 

Almost everywhere beneath the soils and sub-soils may be found clay beds, 
out of which an excellent article of common red brick can be manufactured, 
This is more especially true of the reddish clays overlying the Galena limestone. 
Beds of sand are also found, sufficiently pure for mortars and plastering pur- 
poses, but they are far less numerous than the clay beds. A tough, tenacious, 
dark-colored fire-clay also underlies some of the peat marshes, which has been 
dried and baked into a tenacious, light-colored brick, as an experiment, but this 
is not, perhaps, of much economic value. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 199 

QUICKLIME. 

The more solid portions of the Galena limestone burns into a quicklime of 
excellent quality, and there are many limekilns in the county. Certain portions of 
the blue limestone also burn into a good lime, and at Martin's mill certain por- 
tions of the buff are being successfully made into lime of fair quality. 

BUILDING STONE. 

All the rocks hitherto described furnish building stone of better or worse 
qualities. The Niagara is quarried in several places. It furnishes a handsome- 
colored, enduring building material, but is unshapely and unmanageable on 
account of its irregular stratification. The Cincinnati group, although con- 
sidered an invaluable building material, is much quarried about New Dublin 
and in that region. It comes out of the quarry in good shape for light work, 
and does not crumble and decay when exposed to the weather, as it has been 
known to do farther west. Farm foundations, houses, bridge abutments, and 
such other work may be seen built out of the Cincinnati group, at many places 
in the western part of the county. The Catholic chapel before alluded to is 
built out of this material, and does not, as yet, exhibit much signs of decay. 
Indeed, some of the bottom strata are massive, very blue and excessively hard ; 
but yet the Cincinnati group would not furnish stone suitable for massive and 
solid masonry, or for long-continued resistance to the action of the elements. 
The Galena limestone furnishes a good material for the heavier kinds of masonry . 
It is a rough, unshapely stone, requiring much labor to lay it, but when well 
dressed and laid, it seasons into great hardness, and takes a beautiful cream 
or chocolate color. Nearly all the stone work in the city of Freeport is built 
of this stone. The blue and buff both afford a good stone for building purposes. 
The upper strata are too thin and irregular, but the lower blue strata afford the 
most beautiful building stone to be found in this part of the State. The only 
difficulty seems to be the great labor in quarrying, on account of the great 
amount of worthless materials to be removed upon reaching the handsome and 
valuable portions of the quarries. 

MINERALS. 

Some bog-iron ore may be found in some of the marshes, but it is of little 
value and limited extent. Pieces of flat copper have been picked up in the 
gravel beds, but they are of rare occurrence, and come from regions far remote. 
Galena, or common lead ore, is and has been mined for to some extent. There 
is an old crevice mine near the mouth of Yellow Creek that has often engaged 
attention in years past, but no heavy amounts of mineral have ever been taken 
from it. From the quarries near Lena, " chunks " as large as the fist have 
been taken. In the township of Oneco a company of Freeport men prospected 
to a considerable extent, and obtained several hundred pounds of mineral. 
Near Weitzel's Mill some "prospecting" has been carried on. Along the 
banks of Yellow Creek some "float mineral" has been picked up; and in 
almost any of the quarries small bits of ore may be detected. But none of 
these localities have shown heavy bodies of lead. Indeed, the Galena lime- 
stone, notwithstanding its general prevalence in this county, seems to be very 
unproductive of rich bodie3 of mineral wealth. The probabilities are that no 
rich, or even good-paying, diggings will ever be discovered, for the simple rea- 
son that they do not exist within the borders of the county. Small deposits 



200 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

undoubtedly do exist, and will occasionally create some excitement, and invite 
the expenditure of mining capital, but, in the opinion of many, capital thus 
expended will never make remunerative returns. 

PEAT. 

At several localities peat-beds of some value have been discovered. On the 
farm of a Mr. White, in Township 26, Range 9, a bed of about fifty acres 
was discovered. It was from three to six feet, and underlaid by a tough, 
tenacious, dark-colored fire-clay. The peat is of a rather poor quality, and is 
probably of no great value as fuel. Near Lena and Burr Oak Grove the same 
indications exist. On the low, level prairies south of Yellow Creek, and rang- 
ing between Florence and Crane's Grove, almost every swale and marsh has 
more or less peat in it. One of these beds is quite extensive, and will become 
valuable as soon as the peat experiment succeeds. It is found in the township 
of Florence, between Sections 25 and 26, the section line running along near 
its middle. Careful borings show a depth of from six to nine feet of peat. 

The peat experiment is not yet fully solved, but its solution will not only 
enrich the experimentalist, but confer great blessings upon the inhabitants of 
these northern prairie counties. 

INDIAN OCCUPATION. 

In prefacing what it seems worth while to say upon the Indian occupation 
of Stephenson County, the publisher desires to acknowledge his obligations to 
the judicious and very valuable compilations on the subject made by Gen. S. D. 
Atkins, and contained in his address of July 4, 1876, from which the following, 
in that behalf, is appropriated. After detailing the history of Illinois from its 
earliest settlements to the close of the war for Independence, he says : 

"After the Revolutionary war, emigration pushed rapidly over the Alle- 
ghanies into the magnificient country watered by the Ohio and Mississippi and 
their tributaries. Many settlers in Illinois came from Virginia, Kentucky and 
Tennessee. They were mostly poor people, unable to own slaves, and many 
were in sentiment opposed to slavery, and were seeking a new country where 
slavery did not exist. Southern Illinois was principally settled by these 
people who, with their families, penetrated the wilderness, with all their house- 
hold goods upon pack animals and themselves upon foot, depending upon their 
trusty rifles and fishing-rods for sustenance by the way. Some trace the sobri- 
quet of ' Suckers, ' universally applied to Illinois, to these poor settlers from 
the South ; they were emigrants from the 'poorer classes of the Slave States, 
where the tobacco plant was already extensively cultivated by slave labor, and 
they, not being able to own slaves in the Slave States, came to Illinois to get 
away from the imperious domination of their wealthy neighbors. The tobacco 
plant (now so extensively cultivated in Stephenson County) has many sprouts 
from the root and main stem, which, if not stripped off, suck up its nutriment 
and destroy the staple. These sprouts are called 'suckers. ' and are as care- 
fully stripped off from the plant and thrown away as is the tobacco worm itself. 
These poor emigrants from the Slave States were jeeringly and derisively called 
' Suckers, ' because they were asserted to be a burden upon the people of 
wealth ; and when they removed to Illinois they were supposed to have stripped 
themselves off from the parent stem, and gone away to perish in the wilderness 
like the ' suckers ' stripped from the tobacco plant. But we wear the title 
proudly now, for the 'stone rejected by the builders has become the chief stone 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 201 

of the corner, ' and in intelligence, morals, material prosperity and population, 
Illinois has far outstripped her poor old mother, Virginia, and surpassed Ken- 
tucky and Tennessee. The cognomen was misapplied. Slavery was the 
'sucker' from which they fled, and the ' Subtle corps of sappers and miners " 
that 'sucked' the life-blood out of the States from which the early settlers of 
Illinois emigrated. But there is another generally accepted explanation of this 
sobriquet of 'Suckers, ' the nickname of the Illinoisans. Lead was early dis- 
covered in the vicinity of Galena, and in 1824, Col. James Johnson, of Ken- 
tucky, had gone there with a party of miners and opened a lead mine, about one 
mile above the present city of Galena. His great success drew others there in 
1825, and in 1826 and 1827 hundreds, and even thousands, from Kentucky 
and Missouri and Southern Illinois went to that section to work the lead mines. 
It was estimated that in the summer of 1827 the number of miners in the min- 
ing region about Galena was between seven and ren thousand. The Southern 
Illinoisans ran up the Mississippi in the spring season, worked the lead mines 
during the warm weather, and ran down the river again to their homes in the fall 
season, thus establishing a similitude between their migratory habits and the 
fishy tribe known as 'Suckers, ' that run up stream in the spring and down 
stream in the fall. No matter how it came about, the term ' Suckers ' will 
stick to the Illinoisans 'while wood grows and water runs.' At that time. 
1824 and 1825, there was not a white settler within the bounds of what now 
constitutes Stephenson County, and not a white settlement anywhere in North- 
ern Illinois, between Chicago and Galena. This broad expanse of magnificent 
country, Southern Wisconsin and Northern Illinois, surpassing, in the estimation 
of the writer, any country he has ever visited ; and, in the estimation of at least 
one gentleman who has traveled extensively and circumnavigated the globe, 
surpassing in climate, soil and productions any other spot on the globe's sur- 
face, was in the peaceful possession of the red man. So far as the writer 
knows, or has been able to learn within the few days he has devoted to the sub- 
ject, bo white man had then looked upon its beautiful prairies, grand old 
groves or sparkling streams. It is possible that under the treaty of 1804, the 
white man, the European and their descendants, might have had a right to 
visit this country, but, so far as the writer knows, no one ever did. It was the 
home of, and in the undisturbed possession of, the powerful Indian tribes known 
in history as the Sacs and Foxes. A subordinate Indian tribe, the Winne- 
bagoes, occupied Stephenson County and vast tracts besides along the Pecaton- 
ica, Wasemon and Rock Rivers. The chief of this subordinate tribe was 
Winneshiek, whose principal village was situated on the banks of the Pecatonica, 
at the mouth of the Spring Run, along Spring street, through the present densely 
inhabited portion of the city of Freeport. This Indian chieftain, Winneshiek, 
was a short, stubbed, powerful man, temperate in his habits, and peaceable and 
well-disposed toward the whites. In fact, the Winnebagoes were so well dis- 
posed toward the whites that they have gone down in history as pusillanimous 
and cowardly. Their lodges were on the grounds now occupied by the Illinois 
Central and Northwestern Railway Companies. Their corn-fields, where the 
dusky squaws and dark-eyed maidens of the Winnebagoes planted and raised 
their corn, were in the immediate vicinity of Taylor's Driving Park, and the 
writer has often traced their corn-hills, laboriously thrown up by these matron 
and maiden 'grangers,' with no better 'agricultural implements' than clam 
shells, where the park now is, and no doubt traces of these corn-hills might 
yet be found by the curious in that vicinity. The burial-ground of the tribe 
was where the Illinois Central Railway freight house now stands, and, in 



202 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

excavating for the foundation of that structure, in 1853, many skeletons of the 
Indians buried there were exhumed by the workmen. 

" Col. E. H. Gratiot, so far as the writer knows, was one of the first white 
people who looked upon the beautiful country of Stephenson County before a 
plow had broken its virgin soil. Col. Gratiot is a son of the founder of 
Gratiot's Grove, Wis. His grandfather emigrated to America with John Jacob- 
Astor, of New York, and his father came to the lead mines, in the vicinity of 
Galena, immediately after the first discovery of lead in that region. Col. 
Gratiot remembers distinctly this peculiar mode of burial of the Winnebagoes — 
' burial in the air.' It is an interesting query, ' Who was the first white person 
in Stephenson County ?' I cannot answer the query. Southern Illinois was 
settled immediately at the close of the Revolutionary war, but Northwestern 
Illinois had no settlers until lead was discovered near Galena, about 1823-24. 
Illinois was admitted into the Union as a State in 1818, but, so far as the writer 
knows, no white man had yet visited the valley of the Pecatonica. Col. Gratiot 
traveled on horseback, in company with a single companion, in the fall of 1827, 
from Jacksonville, 111., to Gratiot's Grove, Wis., passing through from Dixon 
to Buffalo Grove, and Burr Oak Grove to the Apple River country, and, with 
the exception of a man named Kirker, who settled in 1826 in Burr Oak Grove 
and built a cabin — which he abandoned within the year — Col. Gratiot and his 
companion were, so far as the writer knows, the first. Col. Gratiot and com- 
panion stopped at Kirker's deserted cabin for 'nooning ' when on their way 
through this region in 1827. Col. Gratiot crossed Rock River at Dixon before 
any ferry was established there, fording streams, following an ' Indian trail ' 
afterward known, we believe, as the ' Sucker trail;' at any rate, he struck the 
'Sucker trail' at that point; and he met no white man in his journey after 
leaving Peoria until he reached Gratiot's Grove. Kirker may have, and 
probably did, abandon his claim at Burr Oak Grove on account of the Winne- 
bago difficulty that occurred in 1827. Some of the lead miners had gone 
beyond what the Indians regarded as their proper bounds, and trespassed upon 
the lands of the Indians, and, in addition to that, there was another cause of 
difficulty. In the month of July, 1827, a boat left Galena for Fort Snelling, 
in Minnesota, and on the way up, the crew stopped at an Indian encampment 
on the bank of the river. Some of the Indians went on board of the boat, and 
were forcibly detained and not permitted to land until they had gone about 
twelve miles farther up the stream. The Indians highly resented the insult, 
and watched the return of the boat. As soon as the party were discovered 
descending the river, the Indians attacked them from the bank, and severely 
wounded several on board; but the party reached Galena and spread the alarm, 
when the miners built small forts, or log block-houses, and flocked to them for 
safety. A fort was built at Elizabeth, another at Apple River, and another at 
Hamilton's Diggings, near Wyota, on the northwest branch of the Pecatonica, 
about sixteen miles northwest of Winslow, on the road to Mineral Point. 
William Hamilton, the founder of Hamilton's Diggings, was a son of the great 
Alexander Hamilton, Washington's first Secretary of the Treasury. Gen. 
Dodge who, about that time, came to the lead-mining region from Missouri, 
raised irregular volunteers among the miners, and began scouting the country 
for the hostile red-skins. Probably late in the fall of 1827, while Dodge and 
his irregulars were in the vicinity of Mineral Point, they espied a young Indian 
lad a short distance from them. Gen. Dodge ordered the guide and Indian 
interpreter, Jesse W. Shull, the founder of Shullsburg. to go up to the Indian 
boy and ascertain the tribe to which he belonged, and where his people were 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 203 

encamped. The Indian boy ran, but Shull hailed him in the Winnebago tongue 
and induced him to halt and surrender. When brought into the presence of 
Gen. Dodge, the brave Indian boy refused to give up his gun, and was disarmed 
by force. He informed Gen. Dodge that he was a son of ' Winneshiek,' or 
'Coming Thunder,' whose village was on the Pecatonica, and who, with his 
braves, was hunting in that vicinity. Dodge and his volunteers moved to the 
Indian encampment, but the Indians fled. Gen. Dodge directed the Indian boy to 
go into the neighborhood of some thickets, where the Indians were, and call them 
out, as he wished to have a talk with them; but the suspicious Winnebagoes 
paid no heed to the captive Indian boy. Gen. Dodge retained his captive, and 
soon started with him down the Pecatonica to ascertain if Winneshiek and the 
bands of Winnebagoes had gone to attend a council of the hostile Indians, at 
that time reported to be in council on the Wisconsin River. Gen. Dodge and 
his volunteers, guided by Winneshiek's son, came to Winneshiek's principal 
village, where Freeport now stands, but found the village deserted, and concluded 
that Winnesheik and his warriors were attending the great Indian pow-wow on 
the Wisconsin. 

" The Winnebago difficulty resulted in a great scare to the miners, but in 
nothing more, except the building of forts and block -houses, which were after- 
ward found very handy to have in the family. The Winnebagoes made a treaty 
with the whites, by which the whites were allowed to occupy a part of the 
mineral region, and the Indians were paid $20,000 in goods and trinkets, 
at enormous prices, for the damages sustained by mining on their lands 
and a much larger strip of mineral-bearing land opened up to the miners. 
About a year afterward, two large strips of country were purchased from the 
Winnebagoes, one extending along the Wisconsin and Fox Rivers from the east 
to the west, giving a passage across the country from Lake Michigan to the 
Mississippi, and the other reaching from Rock Island to the Wisconsin, including 
Stephenson County." 

INDIAN TROUBLES. — THE BLACK HAWK WAR. 

" A treaty had been made with the Sacs and Foxes, by General Harrison 
at St. Louis, in September, 1804, by which those powerful Indian nations had 
ceded to the United States all their lands on Rock and Pecatonica Rivers, and 
much more elsewhere. That treaty was confirmed by another treaty with part 
of those Indians in 1815 and by another part in 1816. Under these various 
treaties the Indians had principally removed to the west side of the Mississippi, 
and the United States had caused some of these lands situated at the mouth of 
the Rock River to be surveyed and sold. 

" But there was one old chief of the Sacs, called Mucata Muhicatah, or 
Black Hawk, who always denied the validity of these treaties. Black Hawk 
was now an old man. He had been a warrior from his youth ; he had led many 
a war party on the trail of an enemy, and had never been defeated. He had 
been in the service of England in the war of 1812, and had been aide-de-camp 
to the great Tecumseh. At the close of the war of 1812 he had not joined in 
making peace with the United States, but he and his band long kept up a con- 
nection with Canada, and the voice of Black Hawk was always for war upon 
the Americans. Black Hawk's ownaccount of the treaty of 1804 is as follows: 
He says that some Indians of his tribe were arrested and imprisoned in St. 
Louis for murder, and that some of the chiefs were sent down to provide for 
their defense ; that while there, and without the consent of the nation, those 



204 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

chiefs were induced to sell the Indian country ; that when they came home it 
appeared that they had been drunk most of the time while absent, and could 
give no account of what they had done, except that they had sold some land to 
the white people, and had come home loaded with presents and Indian finery. 
This, said Black Hawk, was all the nation ever heard or knew about the treaty 
of 1804. 

" Under the pretence that the treaty of 1804 was void, he made some resist- 
ance to the order of the Government for the removal of his tribes west of the 
Mississippi, but had at length consented, and with his people took up a resi- 
dence on the west side of the ' Father of Waters.' In the spring of 1831 Black 
Hawk re-crossed the river with his women and children and three hundred war- 
riors of the British band, together with some allies from the Pottawatomie and 
Kickapoo nations, to establish himself upon his ancient hunting-grounds and in 
the principal village of his nation, on the banks of Rock River, in what is now 
Whiteside County. Many white settlers were there, but he ordered them away, 
threw down their fences, unroofed their log cabins, cut up their grain, drove oft* 
and killed their cattle, and threatened the people with death if they remained. 
The settlers complained to Gov. Reynolds, who called out the militia, which 
,was placed under the command of Gen. Gaines, of the regular army, who, after 
many delays, marched against Black Hawk, but only to find that he and his 
dusky warriors and dusky maidens and squaws and pappooses had quickly re- 
crossed the Mississippi. But Gaines, more bent upon devastation than the In- 
dians had been, gave the ancient Indian village to the flames, and proposed to 
follow Black Hawk across the river and chastise him there. Black Hawk sued 
for peace and ratified the treaty of 1804, by which the Indian lands, including 
Stephenson County, had been sold to the whites. 

"But, notwithstanding Black Hawk and his followers had, in 1831, ratified 
the treaty of 1804, the wily chieftain and the disaffected Indians prepared to 
again cross to the east side of the Mississippi, and re-assert their claim to the 
country on Rock River and Pecatonica and their tributaries. 

"The united Sac and Fox nations were divided into two parties. Black 
Hawk commanded the warlike band, and Keokuk, another chief, headed the 
band which was in favor of peace. But nearly all the bold, turbulent spirits, 
who delighted in mischief, arranged themselves under the banner of Black 
Hawk, and with the chivalry of his nation he re-crossed the Mississippi early 
in the spring of 1832, and marched directly to the Rock River country. Gov. 
Reynolds made another call for volunteers, and four regiments and a spy 
battalion were soon organized. Col. Dewitt commanded the First Regiment, 
Col. Fry the Second, Col. Thomas the Third, Col. Thompson the Fourth and 
Col. James D. Henry commanded the spy battalion, and the whole was placed 
under the command of Brig. Gen. Samuel Whiteside, of the State Militia, 
after whom Whiteside County was afterward named. Gen. Atkinson, of the 
regular army, commanded the regulars, and had general command. The force 
marched to Dixon, and was there joined by two battalions of mounted volun- 
teers from Central Illinois, under Ma's. Stillman and Bailey, who were pushed 
up Rock River, in the advance, about thirty miles above Dixon, to White Rock 
Grove, in Ogle County, where he encamped just befoi'e night, on the 12th of 
May, 1832, and in a short time a party of Indians were discovered on some 
rising ground about a mile further up the river. A party of Stillman's volun- 
teers, without orders, mounted and pursued, stringing along in disorder. The 
Indians retreated, but were overtaken, and three of them slain. Black Hawk 
was just over the hill with his main force, amounting to about seven hundred 




(DECEAS ED) 

FREEPORT 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 207 

warriors, and with his dusky warriors, he moved down on Maj. Stillman's 
camp, driving his whole force helter-skelter before him, and, it is said, that 
not a man of them stopped until they had safely reached the camp at Dixon, 
or been halted by an Indian rifle or tomahawk. The writer recently visited 
that locality, and it is known to this day as 'Stillman's Run.' Eleven of 
Stillman's men were killed, among them Maj. Perkins and Capt. Adams. As 
is usual in a disastrous retreat, every man who escaped reported all his com- 
rades killed. One badly frightened Kentuckian made a report to Gen. White- 
side, of Dixon, and his speech has come down to us in history. Here it is, 
for it is too good to be lost: 'Sirs,' said he to Gen. Whiteside and the soldiers 
gathered near, 'our detatchment was encamped among some scattered timber, 
on the north side of Old Man's Creek, with the prairie from the north gently 
sloping down to our encampment. It was just after twilight, in the gloaming 
of the evening, when we discovered Black Hawk's army coming down upon 
us in solid column ; they displayed in the form of a crescent upon the brow of 
the prairie, and such accuracy and precision of military movements were never 
witnessed by man ; they were equal to the best troops of Wellington in Spain. 
I have said that the Indians came down in solid column, and displayed in the 
form of a crescent ; and, what was most wonderful, there were large squares of 
cavalry resting upon the points of the curve, which squares were supported 
again by other columns fifteen deep, extending back through the woods and 
over a swamp three-quarters of a mile, which again rested upon the main body 
of Black Hawk's arm} 7 , bivouacked upon the banks of the Kishwakee. It was 
a terrible and glorious sight to see the tawny warriors as they rode along our 
flanks attempting to outflank us, with the glittering moonbeams glistening 
from their polished blades and burnished spears. It was a sight well calcu- 
lated to strike consternation into the stoutest and boldest heart, and accord- 
ingly, our men soon began to break in small squads, for tall timber. In a very 
little time the route became general ; the Indians were upon our flanks, and 
threatened the destruction of the entire detachment. About this time Maj. 
Stillman,Col. Stephenson, Maj. Perkins, Capt. Adams, Mr. Hackelton and myself, 
with some others, threw ourselves into the rear to rally the fugitives and pro- 
tect the retreat. But in a short time all my companions fell, bravely fighting 
hand to hand with the savage enemy, and I alone was left upon the field of 
battle. About this time I discovered, not far to the left, a corp3 of horsemen 
which seemed to be in tolerable order. I immediately deployed to the left, 
when, leaning down and placing my body in a recumbent position upon the 
mane of my horse, so as to bring the heads of the horsemen between my eye 
and the horizon, I discovered by the light of the moon that they were gentle- 
men who did not wear hats, by which token I knew they were no friends of 
mine. I therefore made a retrograde movement and recovered my former 
position, where I remained some time meditating what further I could do in the 
service of my country, when a random ball came whistling by my ear, and 
plainly whispered to me, "Stranger, you have no further business here." Upon 
hearing this, I followed the example of my companions in arms, and broke for 
tall timber, and the way I ran was not a little, and quit.' 

" The Kentuckian was a lawyer, just returning from the circuit, with a 
slight wardrobe and Chitty's pleadings packed in his saddle-bags, all of which 
were captured by the Indians. He afterward related, with much vexation, 
that Black Hawk had decked himself out in his finery, appearing in the wild 
woods, among his savage companions, dressed in one of the Kentuckian ruffled 



208 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

shirts drawn over his deerskin leggings, with a volume of Chitty's Plead- 
ings under each arm. 

" But the trumpet sounded a" council of war at the tent of Gen. Whiteside, 
in Dixon, and it was resolved to march to the fatal field. The volunteers 
marched, but the Indians had gone — some further up Rock River, and many 
had scattered out in smaller parties all over the country to attack the nearest 
settlements of white people. 

" One party of about seventy Indians made a descent upon a settlement of 
whites at Indian Creek, and massacred fifteen persons, men, women and chil- 
dren, of the families of Messrs. Hall, Davis and Pettigrew, and took two young 
women prisoners — Silvia and Rachel Hall, one about seventeen, the other about 
fifteen years of age. To describe this massacre is only to repeat what has been 
written hundreds of times. The Indians in broad daylight entered the homes 
of the settlers, quietly and apparently peacefully ; some of the inmates were 
immediately shot down with rifles, others pierced through with spears or dis- 
patched with the tomahawk. The Indians afterward related with an infernal 
glee, how the women had squeaked like geese when they were run through the 
body with spears, or felt the sharp tomahawk entering their heads. All the 
victims were scalped; their bodies were mutilated and mangled; the little chil- 
dren were chopped to pieces with axes, and the women were tied up by their 
heels to the walls of the houses. The young women prisoners were hurried 
away, by forced marches, from this horrid scene, beyond the reach of pursuit. 
After a long and fatiguing journey through the wilderness in charge of their 
Indian conductors, they were at last ransomed by Major Gratiot, founder of 
Gratiot's Grove, on the headwaters of the Wisconsin River, by the payment of 
two thousand dollars in horses, wampum and trinkets, and returned to their 
friends. 

" General Whiteside gathered up the mutilated remains of the eleven white 
men slain by the Indians and buried them at Stillman's Run, and then returned 
to Dixon, where he met General Atkinson and the regulars with supplies. The 
volunteers, who had expected to have grand sport killing Indians, began to 
realize that the boot might be on the other leg, and the Indians have grand 
sport killing them ; and so they grumbled and demanded to be mustered out, 
their term of enlistment being about to expire, and on the 27th and 28th of 
May they were mustered out by Gov. Reynolds, at Ottawa. Meanwhile a 
new regiment of volunteers was mustered in at Beardstown, with Jacob Fry as 
Colonel, James D. Henry as Lieutenant Colonel, and John Thomas as Major. 
Gen. Whiteside, the late commanding general, volunteered as a private. The 
different companies of this regiment were so posted as toguard the frontiers, 
Capt. Adam W. Snyder was sent to scout the country between Rock River 
and Galena, and while he was encamped near Burr Oak Grove, in what is now 
the township of Erin, in Stephenson County, on the night of the 17th of June. 
1832, his company was fired upon by the Indians. The next morning he pur- 
sued them, four in number, and drove them into a sink-hole in the ground, 
when he charged upon and killed the Indians, losing one man mortally wounded.. 
As he returned to camp, bearing his wounded soldier, his men, suffering from 
thirst, scattered in search of water, when they were sharply attacked by about 
seventy Indians, who had been secretly watching their motions, and awaiting 
a good opportunity. Captain Snyder called upon General Whiteside, then a 
private in his company, to assist him in forming his men. General Whiteside 
proclaimed in a loud voice that he would shoot the first man who attempted to 
run. The men were soon formed. Both parties took position behind trees.. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 209 

Gen. Whiteside, an old Indian fighter and a capital marksman with a rifle, 
shot the commander of the Indians, and they, from that moment, began to 
retreat. As they were not pursued, the Indian loss was never ascertained. 
Capt. Snyder lost two men killed and one wounded. 

" On the 15th of June, 1832, the new levies of volunteers were in camp, 
and were formed in three brigades. Gen. Alexander Posey commanded the 
first ; General Milton K. Alexander, the second, and Gen. James D. Henry 
the third brigade." 

" Before the new army could be brought into the field, the scattered war 
parties of the Indians had killed several white men ; one was killed on Bureau 
Creek, one in Buffalo Grove, in Ogle County, another on Fox River, and two 
east of Fox River. On the 22d of May, 1882, Gen. Atkinson had dispatched 
Mr. St. Vrain, the Indian Agent for the Sacs and Foxes at Rock Island, with 
a few men, as an express to Fort Armstrong. On their way they fell in with 
a party of Indians led by a Chief well known to St. Vrain, a particular friend 
of his, named 'Little Bear,' who had adopted St. Vrain as his brother. Mr. 
St. Vrain felt no fear of one who was his friend, who had been an inmate of 
his house, and had adopted him as his brother, and approached him in the 
greatest security ; but ' Little Bear ' no sooner got St. Vrain in his power 
than he murdered and scalped him and all his party." 

" About the middle of June, 1832, some strolling Indians had captured 
horses near Elizabeth, in Jd Daviess County. Shortly after the animals 
were missed, Capt. J. W. Stevenson, a son of Col. Benjamin Stevenson, in honor 
of whom this county is named, went from Galena to Elizabeth, with a few of 
his men, and set out in pursuit of the savages. As the grass was long at that 
season of the year, it was not difficult to keep the Indians' trail, and they soon 
came up to them at a point a little northeast of what is now known as Waddam's 
Grove, in Stevenson County. The Indians immediately ran into a thicket 
close by, and, concealing themselves amid the thick brush and fallen timber, 
waited for Stevenson to make the attack, which Capt. Stevenson did with 
admirable gallantry, although it may appear at this distance that his zeal and 
gallantry outran his discretion. Capt. Stevenson, who had with him only about 
a dozen men, ordered his party to dismount, and, leaving the horses, in charge of 
one or two men, led the rest to the charge, intending, probably, to drive the Indians 
from their place of concealment. The Indians reserved their fire until the white 
men approached quite close, when they fired from th^ir concealment, the whites 
returned the fire without effect upon their concealed foe, and turned back upon 
the prairie out of range to re-load; and again, with admirable courage, marched 
toward the thicket, and, before entering it, again received the cool fire of the 
Indians. Three of Capt. Stevenson's men were killed, and others, including 
himself, wounded. Capt. Stevenson then retreated, leaving the bodies of his 
dead companions, Stephen Howard, George Eames, and a man named Lovell, 
who were buried the next morning after the Indians had departed. Governor 
Ford says : ' This attack of Capt. Stevenson was unsuccessful, and may have 
been imprudent ; but it equaled any thing in modern warfare in daring and 
desperate courage.' 

"About a week after the above occurrence, Black Hawk selected about one 
hundred and fifty of his very choicest braves and marched across the country 
from Rock River, and made an attack on Apple River Fort, erected by the 
miners, just north of the present village of Elizabeth, in Jo Daviess County. It 
was a fearful struggle by the handful of miners and their wives — the women 
molded bullets while the men, in the absence of Moody and Sankey, proceeded 



210 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

most gallantly to ' Hold the Fort ' — and Black Hawk and his band were 
defeated. 

"About the same time, another party of Indians made an attack on three 
men near Fort Hamilton, on the Pecatonica, killing two of them, the third 
escaping to the fort. General Dodge soon after arrived at Fort Hamilton, 
with twenty men, and made quick pursuit of the Indians, and chased them to 
the Pecatonica, where they took shelter under the high bank of the river. 
Dodpe and his party charged up on them in their place of concealment and 
shelter, and killed the whole party of Indians, eleven in number, losing four 
whites wounded, three of them mortally. 

"On the 25th of June, 1832, Major John Dement, of Dixon, in command 
of a detachment of Posey's Brigade, was camped near Burr Oak Grove, in what 
is now the township of Kent, in this county, and, learning from Captain Funk 
that a fresh trail of a large body of Indians leading south had been seen within 
five miles of his camp the day before, undoubtedly the trail of Black Hawk 
and his band falling back from Apple River Fort, after his unsuccessful attack, 
his whole command rushed out in pursuit of the enemy and discovered seven 
Indians, who were as intent on spying out the situation as was Major Dement. 
Some of Dement's men immediately made pursuit of the Iudians, but their 
commander, fearing an ambuscade, endeavored to call them back. In this 
manner Major Dement had proceeded about a mile, pursuing the seven Indians 
first discovered, and he had scarcely entered the grove before he perceived 
about three hundred of Black Hawk's band issuing from the timber to 
attack him. The Indians came on firing, hallooing and yelling to make them- 
selves more terrific, after the Indian fashion, when Major Dement, seeing him- 
self in great danger of being surrounded by a superior force, retired to 
his camp, closely pursued by the yelling savages. Here his whole force took 
possession of the log buildings erected by Kirker and Kellogg, which answered 
the purpose of a fort, and here Major Dement and his command were 
vigorously attacked by the Indians. They shot sixty-seven of the horses 
and narrowly escaped killing the commander himself. Major Dement and Duvall 
were standing in the door of one of the log houses together, when two of the 
Indians came out in sight, and before Duvall, who perceived them, could draw 
the attention of Major Dement to their movements, the Indians fired. One of 
the bullets whizzed past Duvall's ear and lodged in the timbers of the house ; 
the other bullet cut Major Dement's commission, which he carried in the 
crown of his hat. Major Dement mounted two of his men on his swiftest 
horses, as an express to General Posey, at Buffalo Grove, for reinforcements, 
who eluded the Indians, but who, doubtless, were observed by the Indians, who 
divined the object of the flying couriers, and Black Hawk formed his braves 
into column and started for Rock River. Major Dement lost nine men killed 
and the Indians left upon the field nine of their dusky warriors, and 
probably had twice as many wounded. General Posey hastened with his 
entire brigade to the relief of Major Dement, but did not reach the Grove, until 
two hours after Black Hawk had retreated. The next day General Posey 
marched a little to the north in search of the Indians, then marched back to 
the Grove to await the arrival of his baggage wagons ; and then nwched to 
Fort Hamilton, on the Pecatonica. 

"When the news of the battle reached Dixon, where the volunteers and 
regulars were then assembled, under the command of General Atkinson of the 
regular army, Alexander's Brigade was ordered in the direction of Plum River 
to intercept Black Hawk, if possible, but did not succeed. General Atkinson 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 211 

remained with the infantry at Dixon two days, then marched, accompanied by 
the brigade of General Henry, toward the country of the Four Lakes, higher 
up Rock River, in Wisconsin. 

"General Atkinson., having heard that Black Hawk had concentrated his 
forces at the Four Lakes and fortified his position with the intention of decid- 
ing the fate of the war by a grand battle, marched with as much haste as pru- 
dence would warrant when invading a hostile and wilderness country with 
undisciplined forces, where there was no means of procuring reliable intelligence 
of the number or whereabouts of the enemy. 

"On the 30th of June, 1832, he passed through Turtle Village, a consid- 
erable town of the Winnebagoes, then deserted, and camped one mile beyond 
it on the open prairie. He believed that the hostile Indians were in that 
immediate neighborhood, and prepared to resist their attack, if made. That 
night the Indians were prowling abput his encampment. Continual alarms 
were given by the sentinels during the night, and the whole command was fre- 
quently called out in order of battle. The march was continued the next day, 
and nothing occurred until the army arrived at Lake Koshkanong, except the 
discovery of trails and signs of the recent presence of Indians, the occasional 
sight of an Indian scout, and the usual camp rumors. Here General Atkinson 
was joined by General Alexander's brigade, and after Major Ewing and Colonel 
Fry, with the battalion of the one and the regiment of the other, had thoroughly 
examined the whole country round about and had ascertained that no enemy 
was near, the whole force again continued its march up Rock River, on the east 
side, to the Burnt Village, on the White River, in Wisconsin, where General 
Atkinson was joined by the brigade of General Posey, from Fort Hamilton on 
the Pecatonica, and a battalion of a hundred men from Wisconsin, commanded 
by Major Dodge. 

"Eight weeks had now been wasted, with scarcely the sight of a red-skin 
since the battle of Kellogg's Grove, and the commanding general seemed further 
from the attainment of his object than when the second requisition of troops 
was organized. At that time Posey and Alexander commanded each 1,000 
men. General Henry took the field with 1,262, and the regulars, under the 
immediate command of Colonel Zachary Taylor, amounted to 450 more. At 
this time there was not more than four days' rations in the hands of the com- 
missary; the enemy might be weeks in advance; the volunteers were fast 
melting away from various causes, although the regulars had not lost a man. 
General Atkinson therefore found it necessary to disperse his command for the 
purpose of procuring supplies. 

" According to previous arrangements, on the 10th of July, 1832, the sev- 
eral brigades took up their lines of march for their several destinations. Col. 
Ewing's regiment was sent back to Dixon ; Gen. Posey marched to Fort Ham- 
ilton, on the Pecatonica ; Gen. Henry, with Col. Alexander and Maj. Dodge, 
was sent to Fort Winnebago, situated at the Portage, between the Fox and 
Wisconsin Rivers ; while Gen. Atkinson, with Col. Taylor and the regulars, 
fell back to Lake Koshkonong, and there erected a fort, named after the lake, 
where he Avas to remain until the volunteers returned with supplies. Gen. 
Henry marched to Fort Winnebago in three days. Two days were occupied 
by Gen. Henry, at Fort Winnebago, in obtaining provisions, on the last of 
which the Winnebago chiefs there reported that Black Hawk and his forces 
were encamped at Manitou Village, thirty-five miles above Gen. Atkinson, on 
Rock River. In a council held by Gen. Henry, Col. Alexander, and Maj. 
Dodge, it was determined to violate orders by marching directly to the enemy, 



212 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

with the hope of taking him by surprise, or at least putting Black Hawk be- 
tween them and Gen. Atkinson, thus cutting off his further retreat to the 
north. Twelve o'clock, noon, July 15, 1832, was the hour appointed to com- 
mench the march. Gen. Henry proceeded at once to reorganize his command, 
with a view to disincumber himself of his sick and dismounted men, that as 
little as possible might impede the celerity of his march. Gen. Henry was a 
complete soldier. He was gifted with uncommon talent of commanding with 
sternness without giving offense; of forcing his men to obey, without degrading 
them in their own estimation ; he was brave without rashness, and gave his orders 
with firmness and authority, without any appearance of bluster. In his mere 
person he looked the commander, in a word, he was one of those very rare men 
who are gifted by nature with the power to command militia ; to be at the same 
time feared and loved, and with the capacity of inspiring his soldiers with the 
ardor, impetuosity, and honorable impulses of their commander. Col. Alex- 
ander, with his brigade, was sent back to Gen. Atkinson, and at noon, July 15, 
1832, Gen. Henry, with his brigade, the battalion of one hundred Wisconsin 
volunteers, under Maj. Dodge, and a spy battalion under command of Maj. 
William Lee D. Ewing, set out on his march from Fort Winnebago to attack 
Black Hawk, accompanied by Poquette, a half-breed, and the 'White Pawnee,' 
a Winnebago chief, as guides. On the route to the head-waters of Rock River 
he was thrown from a direct line by intervening swamps extending for miles. 
Reaching Rock River, three Winnebagoes gave intelligence that Black Hawk 
was encamped at Cranberry Lake, further up the river. Relying on this in- 
formation, it was decided by Gen. Henry to make a forced march in that direc- 
tion. Dr. Merryman, of Springfield, 111., and W. W. Woodbridge, of Wis- 
consin, were sent as an express to Gen. Atkinson to advise him of Henry's 
movements. They were accompanied by a chief called ' Little Thunder,' as a 
guide, and, having started about dark, and proceeded on their perilous journey 
about eight miles to the southwest, they came upon the fresh main trail of 
Black Hawk and his people, endeavoring to escape by way of the Four Lakes 
across the Wisconsin River. At the sight of the broad, fresh trail, the Indian 
guide was struck with terror, and, without permission, retreated back to the 
camp. Merryman and Woodbridge retreated also, but not until the treacher- 
ous ' Little Thunder ' had announced his discovery in the Indian tongue to the 
Winnebagoes, his countrymen, who were in the very act of makiag their 
escape, when they were stopped by Maj. Murray McConnell, and taken to the 
tent of Gen. Henry, to whom they confessed that they had come into his camp 
only to give false information, and favor the retreat of Black Hawk and his 
dusky warriors, and then, to make amends for their perfidy, and, perhaps, as 
they were led to believe, to avoid immediate death, they disclosed all they knew 
of Black Hawk's movements. Gen. Henry prudently kept the treachery of 
these Indians a secret from his men, for it would have required the influence 
of himself and all his officers to have saved their lives, had their perfidious 
conduct been known throughout the camp. The next morning, July 19, 1832, 
by daylight, everything was ready for a forced march ; but first another express 
was dispatched to Gen. Atkinson. All cumbrous baggage was thrown away. 
The tents and most of the camp equipage were left in a pile in the wilderness. 
Many of the men left their blankets and all their clothing, except the suits 
they wore. Those who had lost their horses took nothing but their guns and 
ammunition and slight rations on their backs, and traveled over mountain and 
plain, swamp and thicket, and kept up with the men on horseback. All the 
men now marched with a better spirit than usual. The sight of the broad, 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 213 

fresh trail of Black Hawk's retreating people inspired every one with a lively 
hope of bringing the war to a speedy end. There was no murmuring, there 
was no excuse or complaining, and none on the sick report. The first day, in 
the afternoon, they were overtaken by one of those storms common on the 
prairies, black and terific, accompanied by torrents of rain, and the most fear- 
ful lightning and thunder ; but the men dashed on through thickets almost im- 
penetrable, and swamps almost impassable, and that day marched upward of 
fifty miles. During the day's march, Gen. Henry, Maj. Murray McConnell, 
and the members of the General's staff, often dismounted and marched on foot, 
giving their horses to the weary, dismounted men. The storm raged until two 
o'clock the next morning. The men, exhausted with fatigue, threw themselves 
supperless upon the rain-drenched earth — for the rain was so continuous that 
they could not kindle fires with which to prepare supper. The next morning, 
July 20, 1832, the storm had abated, and all were on the march by daylight, 
and after a march as fatiguing as the day before, the army encamped upon the 
banks of the Four Lakes forming the source of the Catfish River in Wisconsin, 
and near where Black Hawk had encamped the night previous. The men 
kindled their fires for supper with a hearty good will, for they had marched 
nearly a hundred miles without cooked food or a spark of fire. All were in 
fine spirits and high expectation of overtaking the Indians next day, and put- 
ting an end to the war by a general battle. 

"At daylight, July 21, 1832, the march was resumed with unabated ardor. 
The men were hurried forward by the continual order, ' Close up, close up.' 
The day's march was harder than the two preceding days. The men on foot 
were forced into a run to keep up with the column, the men on horseback 
carrying for them their arms and rations. Maj. William Lee D. Ewing com- 
manded the spy battalion and with him was joined the battalion of one hundred 
men under the command of Maj. Dodge, of Wisconsin. These two officers with 
their commands were in the advance, but the main body was always in sight. 
About noon the advance guard came close upon the rear guard of the retreating 
red-skins. It is to be regretted that we have no account of the management and 
perils of Hawk Black in conducting his retreat. All that we know is that for 
many miles before they were overtaken their broad trail was strewn with camp 
kettles baggage of various kinds, which they had thrown away in the hurry of 
their flight. The sight of those articles encouraged Gen. Henry's men to press 
forward. About noon the scouts in the advance came suddenly upon two 
Indians, and as the Indians were attempting to escape, one of them was killed 
and left dead upon the field. Dr. Addison Philleo, editor of the G-alenian, a 
newspaper published at Galena, and the only paper published in the North- 
west at that time, scalped the dead Indian, and for a long time afterward 
exhibited the scalp as an evidence of his valor. He may not have been as 
eloquent as the Kentucky lawyer who distinguished himself in reporting to 
Gen. Whiteside the battle of Stillman's Run ; but the writer is induced to re- 
mark that lawyers and editors are not, in his opinion, successful Indian fighters. 
Early in the afternoon the rear guard of Black Hawk's army began to make 
feint stands, merely to gain time to enable the main body to take up a more 
advantageous position. A few shots would be exchanged, and then the Indians 
would push ahead; but with so wily a foe to fight, caution had to be observed, 
troops deployed, and the thickets scoured, to be certain of no lurking foes. In this 
manner the Indians gained time to reach the broken grounds on the bluffs of 
the Wisconsin river. Near the middle of the afternoon, July 21, 1832, while 
Gen. Henry's advance guard was passing some uneven ground, covered with 



214 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

low timber and high grass, they were suddenly fired upon by a body of secreted 
Indians. In an instant Maj. Ewing's command was dismounted and formed in 
front, sending their horses to the rear. The Indians kept up a fire from behind 
fallen trees, and none of them could be discovered except by the flash and report 
of their guns. In a few minutes Gen. Henry arrived with the main body, and 
formed instantly his order of battle. Col. Jones' regiment was placed on the 
right, Col. Collins' regiment on the left, and Col. Fry's regiment in the rear as 
a reserve; Maj. Ewing's battalion was placed in front of the line; Maj. Dodge's 
battalion of one hundred men, from Wisconsin, on the extreme right, all dis- 
mounted, and in this order Gen. Henry's little army moved forward into battle. 
Gen. Henry gave the order to charge with the whole line, and his order was 
eagerly and handsomely executed by Ewing's battalion, and by Col. Jones' and 
Col. Collins' regiments. 

" The Indians retreated before this charge obliquely to the right, and con- 
centrated their main force in front of Dodge's battalion, evidencing a design to 
turn his right flank. Gen. Henry sent an order by Major Murray^ McConnell 
to Major Dodge to charge with his battalion ; but Major Dodge being of the 
opinion that the enemy was too strong for him, requested a reinforcement. Gen. 
Henry ordered Col. Fry's regiment, his only reserve, to the aid of Major Dodge, 
and formed it on his right, and Major Dodge and Col. Fry charged upon the In- 
dians. In front of Col. Fry's regiment were bushes and high grass where the In- 
dians lay concealed, and Fry's regiment received the fire of nearly the whole body 
of Black Hawk's warriors. But their fire was briskly returned by the regiment 
of Col. Fry and by Dodge's batalion, and the whole line steadily advanced 
until within almost bayonet reach of the red-skins, when Black Hawk fell back 
to the west along the high, broken bluffs of the Wisconsin, and took up a new 
position in the thickest timber and tall grass at the head of a hollow leading to 
the Wisconsin river, where Black Hawk appeared determined to make a firm 
stand ; but he was gallantly charged upon in his new position by the battalion 
of Major Ewing and the regiments of Col. Collins and Col. Jones, and the 
Indians put to rout, some of them being pursued down the hollow, and others 
again to the west along the high bluffs of the river, until they descended the 
bluffs to the Wisconsin bottom, nearly a mile wide and very swampy, covered 
with thick, tall grass above the heads of men on horseback. Night came on ; 
further pursuit was stopped, and Gen. Henry and his victorious little army lay 
upon the field of battle. 

" That night Gen. Henry's camp was disturbed by the voice of an Indian, 
loudly sounding from a distant hill, as if giving orders or desiring conference. 
It afterward appeared that it was a voice of an Indian chief, speaking in the 
Winnebago language, stating that the Indians had their squaws and families 
with them, that they were starving for provisions, and were not able to fight 
the white people ; that if they were permitted to pass peacefully over the Mis- 
sissippi, they would do no more mischief. He spoke in the Winnebago tongue 
in the hope that some of the Winnebago Indians were with Gen. Henry and 
would act as his interpreters. No Winnebagoes were present, they having ran 
at the commencement of the action, and so his language was never explained 
until after the close of the war. 

"Next morning early > Gen. Henry advanced his forces to the Wisconsin 
River, and ascertained that the Indians had all crossed it, and made their 
escape to the hills between the Wisconsin and the Mississippi, It was ascer- 
tained after the battle that Black Hawk's loss amounted to sixty-eight left dead 
upon the field, and a large number of wounded, of whom twenty-five were after- 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 215 

ward found along the Indian trail leading to the Mississippi. Gen. Henry 
lost one man killed and eight wounded. It appeared that the Indians, knowing 
that they were to fight a mounted force had been trained to fire at an elevation 
to hit men on horseback; but as Gen. Henry had dismounted his forces, and 
sent his horses into the rear, the Indians had overshot their foes, which 
accounted for the small loss in Gen. Henry's command. 

" This gallant action, July 21, 1832, an Illinoisan, and a volunteer, fought 
against orders, but with a true soldier's ardor to serve his country, and with a sol- 
dier's care to notify his commanding general by frequent expresses of his actions 
and intentions ; and this battle of the Wisconsin really and virtually ended the 
famous Black Hawk War, and opened up Stephenson County to permanent 
settlement by the whites. But Gen. Henry received no credit for it then. The 
valorous Doctor Philleo, editor of The Gralenian, wrote up an account of it, 
in the interest of Maj. Dodge, calling Dodge a general, and not mentioning 
Gen. Henry at all, and his account of the battle was printed in all the news- 
papers ofthe United States, and has gone into many of its histories, filching Gen. 
Henry's fame for the benefit of Maj. Dodge. Besides, the gallant conduct and 
splendid generalship of Gen. Henry, gave mortal offence to all the regular army 
officers — for then, as in our late war, West Pointers were determined that mere 
volunteers should win no laurels. Gen. Henry was as modest as he was brave 
and skillful, and went to his death without the just praise that prosterity will 
award him. 

" The next day after the battle of the Wisconsin, on July 22, 1832, for 
want of provisions, Gen. Henry determined to fall back to the Blue Mounds. 
The Winnebagoes who accompanied Gen. Henry during his forced march, at the 
very commencement of the action, had deserted, and made a bee-line for ' tall 
timber.' No one with Gen. Henry knew enough of the country to act as a 
guide. Gen. Henry had marched 130 miles through an unknown and unex- 
plored country, without roads or landmarks, simply pushing hard upon Black 
Hawk's trail, and now found himself in a position in which no one with him 
could direct his way to the settlements. He was without rations or forage, 
men and animals fatigued, and he might be a week blundering through the 
wilderness finding his way out. A council was called to consider these diffi- 
culties ; and whilst he was debating the course to be pursued, some Indians 
approached with a white flag, who were ascertained to be friendly Winneba- 
goes. They acted as guides for Gen. Henry, and in two days he had arrived 
at Blue mounds, where he met Gen. Atkinson with the regulars and 
Alexander's brigade, from Fort Koskonong, where they had been 'bottled up' 
while Gen. Henry achieved his splendid victory over Black Hawk ; also Posey's 
brigade from Fort Hamilton, on the Pecatonica. It was soon apparent to 
Gen. Henry, and to all his officers, that Gen. Atkinson, and all the regular 
officers, were deeply mortified at the success of Gen. Henry and the Illinois 
militia. They did not intend that non-professionals and mere volunteers should 
have any of the credit in the war. Volunteers were good enough for fighting, 
good enough to enrich the soil with their blood, but the harvest of fame that 
sprang from their sprinkled blood must be garnered by West Pointers. 

"Gen. Henry had virtually ended the war, but Gen. Atkinson soon put 
his army in motion after Black Hawk and his dispirited braves. On the 2d of 
August, 1832, the battle of Bad Axe was fought by Gen. Atkinson. He put 
the gallant Gen. Henry and his command virtually into disgrace by detail- 
ing him and his brigade as train guard in the rear. But circumstances occurred 
that gave Gen. Henry and his gallant Illinois volunteers the front again, 



216 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

without the orders and against the wish of Gen. Atkinson. The Indians were 
encamped on the banks of the Mississippi, some distance below the mouth of 
the Bad Axe River. They were aware that Gen. Atkinson was in close pur- 
suit ; and to mislead Gen. Atkinson and gain time for crossing into the 
Indian country, west of the Mississippi, Black Hawk in person went back with 
about twenty Indians, to meet Gen. Atkinson's advance, attack, and retreat to 
the river several miles above his regular camp. Accordingly, Gen. Atkinson's 
advance was suddenly fired upon by Biack Hawk and his litt4e band from 
behind trees and fallen timber. Gen. Atkinson rode immediately to the front 
and, in person, directed a charge. The wily Indians gave way, and were 
pursued by Gen. Atkinson and his regulars, and all the army except the 
brigade of the gallant Gen. Henry, that was in the rear acting as train guard, 
and in the hurry of the pursuit of the Indians, Gen. Henry was left without 
orders. When Gen. Henry came up to the place where the attack had 
first been made by the Indians, he saw clearly that the wily stratagem of 
the untutored savage had triumphed over the science of a veteran General. 
The main trail of the Indians was plain to be seen leading to the river 
lower down, and Gen. Henry marched his brigade right forward upon the 
main trail. At the foot of the high bluff bordering the river valley, on the 
edge of a swamp covered with timber, drift-wood and underbrush, through 
which the Indian trail led fresh and broad, Gen. Henry dismounted his troops 
and left his horses. He formed his men on foot and advanced to the attack, 
preceded by an advance guard of eight men, who advanced until they came in 
sight of the river, where they were fired upon by about fifty Indians, and five 
out of eight in the advance guard instantly fell wounded or dead. The other 
three, behind trees, stood their ground until Gen. Henry came up with the matin 
body, which deployed to the right and left from the center, rushed forward, and 
the battle became general along the whole line. The fifty Indians first met 
retreated upon the main body, amounting to about 800 warriors ; but the Indians 
were taken by surprise. They fought bravely and desperately, but their leader, 
Black Hawk, was not with them — he had led the small party in the first attack 
upon Gen. Atkinson, and was now misleading the veteran regular General away 
from his own camp — and the Indians in front of Henry fought without plan or 
concert. Gen. Henry, with his gallant Illinois volunteers, charged steadily 
forward, driving the foe from tree to tree, and from hiding place to hiding place, 
and crowded them steadily to the river's bank, where a desperate struggle 
ensued ; but the deadly bayonet in the hands of Gen. Henry's charging 
brigade drove them into the river, some to swim it, some to drown, and some 
to take temporary shelter on a small willow-covered island near the shore. 

" Gen. Atkinson heard the music of Henry's rifles, and returned with 
his army, but the work was mainly accomplished. It had been determined that 
Gen. Henry and his Illinois volunteers should have no share in that day's 
glory, but the fates — taking advantage of a blunder by Gen. Atkinson — had 
otherwise directed. After the Indians had retreated into the Mississippi River 
and on to the willow-covered island, Gen. Henry sent Maj. Murray McConnel 
to give intelligence of his movements to Gen. Atkinson, who, while being mis- 
led by Black Hawk and his little band of twenty chosen warriors, had heard the 
firing where Gen. Henry was engaged. Gen. Atkinson left the pursuit of 
the twenty Indians and hastened to share in the general engagement. He w as 
met by Gen. Henry's messenger, Maj. Murray McConnell, near the scene of 
action, in passing through which, the dead and dying Indians lying around, bore 
frightful evidence of the stern work done before his arrival. Gen. Atkinson, 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 217 

however, lost no time in forming his regulars, and Major Dodge's battalion, 
Maj. Ewing's battalion, and Col. Fry's regiment, for a descent upon the wil- 
low-covered island, where lay concealed the last remnant of Black Hawk's 
army. They gallantly charged through the water up to their arm-pits on to the 
island and swept it clean of the lurking foe. The twenty Indians who first 
made the attack on Gen. Atkinson, and misled him, who were led by Black 
Hawk in person, escaped up the river to the Dalles, on the Wisconsin, where 
some friendly Sioux and Winnebagoes pursued the broken and defeated chief, 
captured him and turned him over to Col. Zachary Taylor, of the regular army. 
He was taken to Jefferson Barracks, where Gen. Winfield Scott and Gov. 
Reynolds made another ' treaty,' and again the Sacs and Foxes relinquished 
to the whites all claim upon the territory now known as Stephenson County, 
111., including, of course, vast tracts besides. Black Hawk was taken to 
Washington, Philadelphia, New York, Albany, etc., and dined and wined, and 
eventually returned to his people west of the Mississippi, on June 4, 1833. 
Black Hawk never went upon the warpath again, and died at the age of eighty, 
October 3, 1840. 

COUNTY ROSTER. 

Stephenson County was created by an act of the Legislature, promulgated 
March 4, 1837, its organization provided for, and the seat of justice established 
at Freeport, by a Board of Commissioners, composed of Minor York, of Ogle, 
and Vance L. Davidson and Isaac Chambers, of Jo Daviess Counties. A meeting 
of the Commissioners was held at the house of William Baker, on the first 
Monday of May following, whereat the organization was perfected, and an 
election held for the following county officers : Sheriff, Coroner, Surveyor, 
three County Commissioners and one Clerk of the County Commissioners' 
Court, who were to hold their offices until the next succeeding general elections, 
and until their successors are elected and qualified. 

The subjoined is a list of the first county officers, together with those who 
succeeded the subsequent vacancies : 

Sheriffs.— William Kirkpatrick, 1837; Hubbard Graves, 1838; Oliver 
W. Brewster, 1840; Joseph McCool, 1842; 0. W. Brewster, 1844-46; F A. 
Strockey, 1848. 

Coroner.— Lorenzo Lee. 1837 ; B. R. Wilmot, 1838 ; Lorain Snow, 1840 ; 
Henry W. Hollenbeck, 1841 ; Isaac S. Forbes, 1842 ; W. Patterson, 1844 ; 
Henry W. Foster, 1846 ; Abel Smith, 1848. 

Surveyor. — Frederick D. Bulkley, from 1837 to 1842 ; A. Chamberlain, 
1843 ; no record in 1844, 1845, 1846 ; M. Montelius, 1847. 

Commissioners. — L. W. Streator, Isaac S. Forbes and Julius Smith, 1837 ; 
L. W. Streator, Robert McConnell and John Moore, 1838 ; Thomas Van Valzah, 
1839 ; J. Cory and B. R. Wilmot, 1840 ; Hubbard Graves and Alfred Cad- 
well, 1841; James T. Smith and George Reitzell, 1842; Joseph Musser, 1843; 
Ezekiel Brown, 1844 ; Samuel F. Dodds. 1845 ; Abner B. Clingman, 1846 ; 
John Bradford, 1847 ; Gustavus A. Farwell, 1848. 

County Clerk.— O. H. Wright, 1837 ; no returns for 1838 ; O. H. Wright, 
from 1839 to 1846. 

Assessor and Treasurer. — L. O. Crocker, 1837-40. 

Assessors.— 0. W. Brewster, 1841-42; Chancellor Martin, 1843 ; A. W. 
Rice, 1844-47. 

Probate Judges.— 0. H. Wright, 1838-41 ; Thomas J. Turner, 1842-45 ; 
Seth B. Farwell, 1846 ; C. W. Williams, 1847. 



218 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

Clerks County Commissioners Court. — W. H. Hollenbeck, 1837 ; W. P. 
Hunt, 1838: W. H. Hollenbeck, 1839-42; William Preston, from 1843 
to 1847. 

Collectors.— John R. Howe, 1838 ; John Gordon, 1840 ; 0. W. Brewster, 
1841-47 ; F. A. Strockey, 1848. 

State Senators.— George W . Harrison, 1838; J. A. Mitchell, 1842; L. 
P. Sanger, 1846-48. 

Mouse of Representatives. — Germanicus Kent, 1838 ; Thomas Drummond, 
1840; William Preston, 1842 ; G. Purinton, 1844 ; L. H. Bowen, 1846 ; L. H. 
Bowen, 1847 ; A. Eads, 1848. 

School Commissioners.— John Rice, 1841 ; Jared Sheetz, 1843 ; L. W. Guit- 
eau. 1845-47. 

Treasurer.— L. 0. Crocker, 1841—42 ; Chancellor Martin, 1843 ; A. W. 
Rice. 1844-7. 

Recorder.— J. W. Bulkley, 1843 ; John A. Clark, 1845-47. 

It should be stated that prior to the election, of November, 1849, the county 
was under what is known as " the county organization." Thereafter it came 
under township organization, and the following is the list of officers who have 
served : 

County Judge.— George Purinton, 1849 ; John Coates, 1853 ; W. M. Buck- 
ley. 1857;Talcott Ormsbee, 1861; Charles B. Wright, 1863—65; Andrew 
Hinds 1869; Henry C. Hyde, 1873-77. 

County Clerk. — W. Preston, 1849; J. J. Rogers, 1853 — died in office, and 
David H. Sunderland, elected to the vacancy at a special election, holden June 

4. 1855. David H. Sunderland 1857-61; George Thompson, 1865; George 
Thompson, 1869; I. F. Kleekner. 1873-77. 

County Justices of the Peace. — L. Gibler and G. W. Andrews, 1850. 

County Treasurer. — Jonathan Reitzell, 1849; W. M. Buckley, 1853; 
Andrew Hinds, 1855; W. S. Gray, 1857-61; William Young, 1863-65; 
Robert T. Cooper, 1869-71; Oliver P. McCool, 1873-75; Charles F. Goodhue, 
1877 — removed in October, 1878, and Wallace W. Hutchison succeeded to the 
vacancy at a special election held in November of the same year ; re-elected at 
the general election for county officers, holden Nov. 4, 1879. 

County Surveyor. — Marcus Carter, 1849; B. Dornblazer, 1853-57; C. 
T. Dunham, 1859; William 0. Saxton, to fill vacancy, 1860; W. Peters, 
1861-63; Christopher T. Dunham, 1865-69 ; Samuel J. Dodds, 1871 ; F. 
E. Josel, 1875; Hiram Shons, 1879. 

School Commissioners. — J. B. Smith, 1849 ; John Barfoot, 1852 ; F. W. 

5. Brawley, 1853-55; Henry Freeman, 1857; H. C. Burchard, 1859; A. 
A. Crary, 1861-63. 

The title to the office changed to County Superintendent of Schools — A. 
A. Crary, 1865; Isaac F. Kleckner, 1869; Johnson Potter, 1873; Adam 
A. Krape, 1877. 

Senators. — The Senatorial District was originally composed of the counties 
of Stephenson, Carroll and Jo Daviess, with one Senator'and three Representa- 
tives — one from each county. This continued until the adoption of the consti- 
tution in 1870. The Senators were Hugh Wallace, 1850; John H. Adams; 
1854, re-elected, 1858-62 and 1866 ; James M. Hunter and Dr. Little, 1870, 
Henry Green, 1872; R. H. McClellan, 1876. 

Representatives.— B. B. Howard, 1850; C. B. Denio, 1852; T. J. Turner, 
1854; J. A. Davis, 1856; J. A. Davis, 1858; John F. Ankeney, 1860; Ho- 
ratio C. Burchard, 1862-64; Joseph M. Bailey, 1866-68; Thomas J. Tur- 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 219 

ner and William Massenberg, 1870; E. L. Cronkrite and J. S. Taggart, 
1872-74 ; E. L. Cronkrite, 1876 ; J. I. Neff and Andrew Hinds, 1878. 

Sheriffs. — Peter D. Fisher, 1850; George Reitzell, 1852; Isaac Kleckner, 
1854 ; J. W. Shaffer, 1856: C. F. Taggart, 1858: J. W. Shaffer, 1860; W. W. 
Robey. 1862; Jeremiah J. Piersol, 1864; W. W. Robey, 1866; John R. 
Hayes, 1868 ; John R. Haves, 1870 ; J. J. Piersol, 1872-74 ; Jesse R. Leigh, 
1876-78. 

Coroner. — Isaac Bechtol, 1850; George H. Hartsough, 1852; Abel Smith, 
1854 ; Samuel McAfee, 1856 : B. P. Belknap, 1857, to fill vacancy ; John 
Washburn, 1858 ; Levi A. Mease, 1862 ; W. W. Robey, 1864 ; F. A. Darling, 
1866: Caspar Schultz, 1868 ; Christian M. Hillebrand, 1869; Jeremiah J. 
Dean, 1870-78. 

Circuit Judges. — The Circuit Court first held its sessions on the 26th day 
of August, 1839, the Hon. Daniel Stone presiding. In the winter of 1840, an 
act was passed by the General Assembly, abolishing the Circuit Court system, 
and providing that the duties incident thereto should be discharged by the 
Judges of the Supreme Court. This was continued until the fall of 1848, 
when the Circuit Court system was revived, and has since obtained with the 
following Justices: Daniel Stone, 1839; Thomas C. Brown, 1841; Benja- 
min R. Sheldon, 1849 to March, 1870; William Brown, the present incumbent. 
In 1877, Stephenson County was included in the Thirteenth Circuit, the same 
consisting of the counties of Jo Daviess, Stephenson, Winnebago, Carroll, 
Ogle, Whiteside and Lee. For this circuit three Judges were elected — J. M. 
Bailey, William Brown and John V. Eustace. Bailey was appointed Justice of 
the Appellate Court, and the duties of his circuit are discharged by Justices 
Brown and Eustace, though Judge Bailey assists when not engaged on the 
Appellate bench. 

Clerks Circuit Court. — John A. Clark, from 1839 to 1852; Joseph B. 
Smith, to 1856 ; Luther W. Guiteau, to 1860 ; John W. Shaffer, to Novem- 
ber 9, 1863, resigned and Edward P. Hodges appointed to the vacancy ; sub- 
sequently elected to the office for four years from 1864 : William Polk, to 18 T2 ; 
Aaron W. Hall, 1876 ; D. S. Brewster, present incumbent. 

States .Attorney.— Sheldon L. Hall, 1839 ; Thomas J. Turner, 1846 ; H. 
B. Stillman, 1847-50; Orrin S. Miller, 1851-52; William Brown, to 1860; 
S. D. Atkins, to 1864; F. C. Ingalls, to 1868 ; D. W. Jackson, to 1872 ; J. 
S. Cochran, the pesent incumbent. 

EARLY SETTLEMEiNTS. 

With the close of the Black Hawk war, the Indians as a rule disappeared 
from their hunting grounds, and returned no more to plague the inventors of a 
new line of life in future Stephenson County. The few who remained were 
dispirited, subdued and awed into defenseless apathy by the whites, whom they 
rarely interfered with or in any way, save through minor thefts and annoyances 
proceeding therefrom, recognized as the existing power. The relics of their 
barbaric life, however, were noticed by the settlers at intervals, and recalled the 
days when Winneshiek occupied the country without restraint. Near the City of 
Freeport,where are to be seen their corn-fields, council houses, cabins and cemeter- 
ies wherein they labored, consulted, lived, died and were buried — not committed to 
mother earth, there to await the dawning of the resurrection morn, but laid to 
rest in the air, if so anomalous a condition of affairs can be conceived. Four 
strong poles were planted in the ground, on which a platform was constructed, 
and the body of the dead with his bow and arrows, together with various trinkets 



220 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

placed thereon and left to the storms, the sunshine, and the future. Some 
of these antique "burial-grounds " were to be observed by the early settlers in 
the West, when the skeleton of deceased was all that remained to recall the liv- 
ing, who once rejoiced in health and strength, whose tribe doubtless mourned 
the deep damnation of his takings-off, as its representatives shrived him for his 
pursuit of game and foemen in the happy hunting-grounds. But these senti- 
nels of death, against whom the advance of progressing civilization long since 
prevailed, disappeared with their discovery, and no monument remains to mark 
the spot where once they were endured. 

Years have elapsed since the first settlers visited Stephenson County, whence 
they went the way of all flesh, and the music of their rejoicings became fainter 
and fainter until it was stilled. In the hurry and bustle of life, in the burdens 
which mankind has borne, made heavier with each succeeding cycle, in the 
changes which have followed each other so rapidly, and the active advance- 
ment in the perfected places of life, — the historic associations connected with 
these pioneers, have lost some of their freshness, but none of the value to which 
they are justly entitled. Once their corn-fields decked the river bottoms and 
fringed the hillsides and ravines with a wealth of foliage, bespeeking a plen- 
teous harvest against the hour of need. In the russet days of the present, when 
the tanned reaper in brief moments of ease vouchsafed him, the fields lying 
brown and bare, contemplates his possessions as they dot the landscape, and 
are lost in the horizon, he scarcely reflects upon the times long since gone out 
in age, and consigned to the tomb of oblivion, where others who preceded him 
toiled as he toiled in fields of grain ripe for the harvest, rejoiced as he rejoiced, 
unmindful of the coming of age and infirmities, or of another generation by 
whom his acres should be appropriated and himself not unfrequently left to 
wander an Ishmaelite in almost undiscovered lands. But many of them have 
gone, and with them many a glorious throng of happy dreams. Yet if there is 
a pious mansion for the blest, if the soul is not extinguished with the body, 
may they not return in spring, or with the harvest in autumn, or with winter 
and his aged locks, and view the regions they once knew so familiarly, or sit 
and muse upon the changes that have been wrought and have survived the 
injuries of time, since they went hence. They kept their patient vigil in their 
day, faced the storm of penury and wre3tled with the strong hand of adversity, 
but the seed sown amid trials, and sorrows and weepings, has yielded sheaves 
of wealth to the present days which are bound to the melodies of harvest songs 
and stored with prayers of thanksgiving. Those days were dark, indeed, with 
no silver lining to the clouds that impended over the future. But none were 
disheartened. Their hearts were high with hope. They believed the horizon 
would dawn into the morning of which prophets spoke and minstrels sang, of 
which poets dreamed and painters sketched. They believed the time would be 
when the fir-tree would come up instead of the thorn, the myrtle-tree instead of 
the brier, when the mountains and hills should break forth into singing, and 
the trees of the wood should clap their hands. 

And these confidences have been more than realized. The thorn has given 
place to the fir-tree, and the myrtle-tree has usurped the place of the briar. 
The voices of the husbandmen are heard throughout the land, and their songs 
of thanksgiving are echoed from each hillside. Peace, plenty, felicity and con- 
tentment are to be witnessed on every side ; the heritages of those who came 
into this unbroken wilderness fifty years ago, buo} T ant, elastic, laughing at tem- 
porary misfortune, shedding a genial warmth on those they met while passing 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 221 

through life, and, departing, leaving behind not only a kindly and gentle mem- 
ory, but an example for those who came after. 

The collation of facts concerning events occurring at a date within the 
memory of inhabitants by no means comparatively ancient, would appear to the 
uninitiated in the character of a task presenting but limited difficulties. By 
some, the labor has been regarded as one of the necessary incidents of life to be 
endured; some have regarded it with indifference, while others have paused 
not in their fierce career to concede a superficial consideration of the premises. 

From these indispositions, coupled with the failure among those possessed 
of the incidents, to record the same for future reference and adaptation, the 
record of early settlements contains but scant materials from which to weave an 
acceptable history. Patient industry and careful research, however, have not 
been without results, but have aided the laborers employed in that behalf. 
From all that can be learned in this connection, it appears that a man named 
Kirker left St. Louis some time during the year 1826, and, removing to the 
vicinity of Galena, established himself as a lead miner in the employ of 
Col. Gratiot, founder of Gratiot's Grove, Wis. Here he remained about a 
year, doubtless encountering many of the vicissitudes, enduring many of the 
trials and participating in some of the triumphs peculiar to lead mining and 
the life thereof, when he dissolved partnership with the business, bade good-bye 
to Col Gratiot and his associates, and, venturing into Stephenson County, built 
a cabin in Burr Oak Grove, and set himself up as an Indian trader. The 
success which attended his commercial undertaking is not of record, but the 
fact that he retired from active operations and left his habitation to the posses- 
sion of savages within a year after his advent into its vicinity, would argue the 
conclusion that his ambition was not properly recognized, which conclusion is 
further strengthened by the fact that he was heard of no more after his year's 
sojourn at Burr Oak. Whither he went or what he did are beyond the ken 
of the living, the suggestion of rumor or the range of probabilities, to determine. 
He was never seen again in the vicinity nor elsewhere, according to the chron- 
icles. 

For a year following, future Stephenson County was remitted to the 
possession of the Indians, and whomsoever may have been sufficiently 
adventurous to enter its territorial limits, without leaving any trail behind him 
to guide posterity or enterprise in their pursuits of his name and local habita- 
tion. 

During 1827, when, according to all accounts, the summer's sun had 
vanished and autumn winds were whistling through the leafless trees, a native 
of New York by the name of Oliver W. Kellogg, crossed the river at Dixon, 
and, pursuing the uneven tenor of an emigrant's way in those days, worried 
gradually through the eastern portion of the present county, and tarried not 
until he reached the improvements made by Kirker, his predecessor, near Burr 
Oak Grove, in the vicinity of which he pitched his camp, and before the coming 
of spring erected a house. The domicile was in many respects a pretentious 
edifice for the days, and enjoyed an experience as varied as it has been at 
times, exciting. Within its protecting and hospitable walls John Dement, of 
Dixon, and his troops, took shelter from the Indians, and, in the spring of 1835, 
it became the home of James Timms, one of the first permanent settlers in the 
county, he purchasing the domain from a man named Green, of Galena, who 
derived a title from Lafayette, a French adventurer who succeeded Kellogg in 
its possession, but fled when the Black Hawk war rendered residence in Burr 
0;ik Grove an exceedingly hazardous undertaking. The old house remained 



222 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

comparatively intact until 1862, when it was torn down and the frame appro- 
priated to other uses. A new house was built on the site, but no more like 
the Kellogg improvement, it is said, than Hecuba resembled Hamlet. Nothing 
remains of these pioneer premises but an orchard, old and fruitless, that was 
planted by Kellogg, the first in Stephenson County. It has served its purpose, 
and, decrepit with age, is permitted to survive the rush of matter for the good 
it has been the means of accomplishing in the flush of its youth and strength. 

During the summer of 1833, the " barren" opposite this house was the 
scene of a tragedy as fatal as it was singular, by which two lives were sacrificed, 
two families shrouded in woe, and the soil of Stephenson County first drenched 
with the blood of murdered innocence. 

It seems that two young men, en route to the lead mines, had halted at the 
point indicated, and encamped for the night. Their establishment consisted 
of a wagon and two yoke of cattle, together with the equipments usual to the 
completely furnished " prairie schooner," and of a quality superior to that 
ordinarily taken into the lead mines at the period mentioned. As was afterward 
ascertained, they were the sons of Virginia planters, who became impressed 
with the glowing accounts they had heard of the wealth of the lead country, 
and, provided with every accessory that could contribute to their comfort or 
prosperity, started in pursuit of fortune. After a laborious trip, the adven- 
turous twain reached Kellogg's cabin, as the shades of night were obscuring 
the landscape, and having, as they thought, secured their cattle and eaten 
their supper, lay down to dreams. In the morning, they awoke to discover 
that their oxen had strayed off, and while one of them prepared breakfast the 
other started out in search of the missing stock. After a delay of several hours 
the oxen were recovered, and driven to camp. Upon their arrival, the young 
man who had been left in charge, was found to have made no progress in the 
duties assigned him, and a dispute arose between himself and his companion as 
to the cause. This discussion was carried on, it is said, with much acrimony, 
and finally ended in blows, during which one of the contestants seized a pin, 
connected with the tongue of the wagon, or an ox-yoke, and, striking a blow 
upon the head of his antagonist, crushed the skull, and inflicted a wound that 
caused almost instant death. Paralyzed with horror at the lengths to which, 
in an unguarded moment, he had permitted his anger to carry him, he was 
powerless for the time to attempt any concealment of his crime, and sought a 
relief from the woe, to which he had committed his peace of mind, by flight. 
But wanderings through the forest afforded no release from the pangs of con- 
science, and he returned to the scene of the tragedy, where his victim had 
fallen by the wayside, cold and stiff, grim and ghastly, a horrible spectacle to 
those inured to scenes of strife and bloodshed, and doubly so to him, with whom 
he had embarked so short a time before, with high hopes and pleasurable antici- 
pations on the voyage of life that terminated in death and eternal desolation. 
With the implements included in the invoice of tools, he digged a grave, and, 
laying his companion therein, the survivor hooked up the oxen and pursued his 
journey west, arriving at Apple River within a week after the sad occurrence, 
where he related the facts, as are herein stated, to the amazed settlers, who 
placed no restraint upon his liberty, however, when he disappeared from view, 
and was never seen or heard of thereafter. Many years subsequent, the skeleton 
of a human being was found in the woods of Jo Daviess County, of whose 
identity no one could be found to testify, and the impression obtained that it 
was the remains of him who had murdered his comrade in the ik barren " oppo- 
site the Kellogg cabin. 




FREEPORT. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 225 

There were others who came into Stephenson County about this time besides 
Kellogg, including William Baker, one of the Prestons, and, possibly, a few 
more ; but their stay was only temporary, after which they returned whence 
they came, reserving a permanent settlement until some years subsequent. In 
1832 (during the fall), William Waddams, with his two sons, made his advent 
into Stephenson County, and, canvassing the country round about, formally 
staked out a claim at a point in West Point Township about three miles north- 
west of the present town of Lena. Here, in the summer of 1833, he erected 
a small log house, on the present site of Jo Daviess Waddams' house, and locat- 
ing his family therein, carried off the honors to which the first permanent set- 
tler in Stephenson County can legally and equitably lay claim. This was the 
second house, it is alleged in the county, but, unlike its predecessor, " Kellogg's 
Mansion," it now stands on the Waddams place, opposite where it first stood, 
and is occupied by Mrs. Eunice Place, daughter of its architect and builder. 
The " Cabin " is of the most limited dimensions, presenting none of the attract- 
ive features for which farmhouses are to-day noticeable, yet it is as comfortable 
and cozy as when first raised in the wilderness, and bears its age without any 
of the marks of weakness or "discouragement" peculiar to manufactures of 
that "beatific" period. The logs remain as sound as when first placed in posi- 
tion, and the window frames, fashioned by Mr. Waddams with his jack-knife, 
are untouched by decay ; but the puncheon floor has yielded place to material more 
adapted to that purpose, and the huge fire-place which formerly occupied one 
end of the apartment has been vacated, its uses being appropriated by more 
modern inventions. If the walls could but speak, what a tale of the pleasures 
and pains experienced in that old-fashioned, one-roomed house, they would 
unfold. What mournful cadences they would sigh of the troubled visions that 
have swept over the breast of breathing sorrow for those who went out from its 
portals, chilled in the embrace of death, to sleep beneath the daisies which car- 
essed their graves as the breezes tossed them into rippling eddies. Or how 
joyfully they would detail the marriage fete, the social, quilting and what-not 
of pleasure that has passed within its confines. The old home is still treasured 
as a relic of heroic days, when men possessed less of the superficial and more 
of those characteristics which raise mortals to the skies, than is apparent to the 
casual observer of to-day. It possesses a charm for those who have survived 
the death of Mr. Waddams which can never be dissipated, and promises to be 
preserved for years to come, when Stephenson County shall have attained a pro- 
minence and influence, in comparison with which that enjoyed to-day is but 
nominal. 

The close of the Black Hawk war, and dispersion of the soldiers who aided 
in subduing that fierce and seemingly unconquerable foe of the white race, 
called the attention of the country more generally to the natural advantages to 
be found in Northern Illinois, and particularly in the country bordering upon 
the Pecatonica and its tributaries. The volunteers regarded the homes of 
Winneshiek and his tribe found along the streams and creeks, and in the bar- 
rens and wilderness of Stephenson County, as veritable gardens of Babylon, and 
many of them, acting upon this conclusion, came in as settlers among the first 
who arrived, where they entered claims and have since remained. The 
majority, having reached the Biblical limits of human life, have departed in 
peace ; but a few still remain residents of Stephenson County, where they have 
witnessed the fullest fruition of their predictions regarding the country and 
amassed a comfortable competence. Among these are John Waddams, Robert 



226 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

Brightendall, Jacob Burbridge, George Trotter and, perhaps, one or two more. 
About the same time, as will be remembered, the Galena mines were the 
objective points for soldiers of fortune from every State, and those at Dubuque, 
the restraints to emigration thither having been removed, but imperfectly 
developing. As a consequent, thousands of prospectors, adventurers, specu- 
lators and the hoi polloi journeyed in those directions, intent on putting money 
in their individual purses, by mining, luck or agencies they hoped would favor 
their efforts without entailing too great a draft on their physical or financial 
resources. They were composed of men from Ohio, Missouri and elsewhere, 
with a sprinkling of lllinoisans. The route to Galena in those days was by 
St. Louis or by some other point on the Mississippi ; another route was to 
cross the river at Dixon, strike what is known as " Sucker Trail," entering 
Stephenson County in the southwestern part of Loran Township, and Jo 
Daviess County, from Kent Township, thence to Galena and Dubuque. 
This route was patronized quite freely by emigrants, on their trips to those 
points, to whom the fertility of the soil, salubrity of the climate and other 
advantages patent to all who passed through Stephenson County, became 
as familiar as they are to-day to the manor born. Many who visited the 
lead mines returned without testing the value of their claims — many returned 
after encountering failure, and many returned only when they had attained 
the object for which they went in pursuit. The inducements held out by the 
agricultural resources of the county, persuaded representatives of every class 
cited to enter claims hereabouts and in time become farmers. Those who 
did so, have, as a rule, succeeded, and laid up treasures upon earth, at least. 
Added to the volunteers and miners were the natives and residents of Eastern 
States, who, impatient at the limited extent of their hereditaments, and ambi- 
tious to identify themselves with enterprise in an enlarged field of action, where 
legitimate business, if conducted with the industry and integrity indispensable 
to a living at home, would be attended with better results, sought to test their 
judgment in the West. Illinois was then an almost undiscovered bourne to 
many of them, and Stephenson County was an absolute wilderness. But the 
knowledge of these facts, instead of appalling, rather influenced their coming 
hither, and to-day, the history of the county is largely a record of what has 
been accomplished by those who came from the East, notably from Pennsyl- 
vania, Ohio and New York. 

Such, then, were the influences employed to attract emigration, and such was 
the character of those who responded. As a matter of course, there were 
numberless worthless characters who came in with the "flood," but the same 
causes which admonished them to leave their native heaths exerted a similar 
influence here and urged them to seek elsewhere for what they were restrained 
from appropriating on the banks of the Pecatonica. This country, then await- 
ing the claims ofr the industrious and enterprising, but holding out the promise 
of prosperity to all, was scarcely a comfortable locality for the outlaw or one of 
felonious propensities. If they came "born again" they were accepted as 
valuable additions. But if the new dispensations duplicated their acts com- 
mitted elsewhere, they were no longer tolerated, but banished. The conse- 
quence was, and is, that crime has never been an important factor of the civili- 
zation established in Stephenson County. Indeed, the record of the criminal 
court in this county is comparatively free from the various crimes entailing 
capital punishment or prolonged imprisonment. This is due entirely to the 
sturdy character and unflinching integrity of the early settlers, whose virtues 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 227 

have been visited upon their descendants, and exempted the county from many 
calamities their neighbors elsewhere have been called upon to endure. 

During the seasons of 1832-33, the settlement quoted above was the only 
one made in the county. William Waddams was the pioneer who paved the 
way for the coming of the army of occupation which speedily followed in his 
wake — the sapper and miner who effected a successful advance into the enemy's 
territory, maintaining a line of communication with his base of supplies, and 
holding the fort until the forces in reserve had been brought forward to his 
support. Civilization with its germinal forces thereafter persistently pushed 
its way into the territory like the march of a conquering army, and to-day the 
casual observer of events that have passed into history, stands amazed at the 
foot-prints of development and progress it has left in its luminous trail. The 
remote sections have been united by railroads and canals ; the modern insti- 
tutions of learning, the methods of human industry, the churches and schools, 
the telegraph and telephone, and other indications of progress and perfection, 
have gradually developed from the rude and imperfect accommodations of 
those early days. The broad prairies are born anew with each succeeding 
decade in the westward march of empire, and populous cities and villages 
are becoming the centers and gateways of trade and commerce. Agriculture 
bn scientific principles has drained and rejuvenated the lands, making them to 
blossom with annually increasing harvests, and the wealth born of their prod- 
ucts, coupled with enterprise and architectural skill, has builded where 
once the forest disputed possession with the plain. These are the works of 
those who rest from their labors, and the beneficiaries for whom these trusts 
were created daily rise up to call them blessed. 

The winter of 1833-34 passed without the happening of any event which 
has left its impress on the times to guide the historian in his search therefor. Mr. 
Waddams. with his family comfortably housed, dreamed the hours away in a 
solitude unbroken by aught that savored of civilization. Gathered about the 
winter log, himself and famiiy doubtless engaged in perfecting plans for 
future operations, when the dawn of spring announced the coming of more per- 
fect days. The resident of Stephenson County of to-day would hardly reconcile 
the appearance of that county then with what greets his vision on all sides in 
1880. The country now covered with highly cultivated farms, imposing 
residences and expensive improvements, was almost a trackless waste of prairie 
and timber. There was nothing to enthuse, little to encourage. Occasional 
bands of predatory Indians demurred to the title of the solitary settler, and 
not unfrequently levied upon his meager stores for supplies. But the long 
and inhospitable season dragged tediously to its close, and the flowers and 
shrubbery of the year before, which had yielded to the winter's blasts, warmed 
into new life and ran wild in the sunshine, hi'ding the trees and blooming 
foliage, with leaf and flower. Undismayed by the prospect, Mr. Waddams, as 
soon as the ground was fit to work, began the labor of preparing the soil about 
him for crops that would last him when autumn should have yielded place to 
the winters' winds, and with this beginning sowed the seeds for future 
prosperity. 

It should here be observed that a claim is made, that Lyman Brewster, ac- 
companied by one Joe Abeno, came into Stephenson County during 1833, and 
established a ferry near Winslow, which was the first in the county, and 
survived its owner many years. This, however, is disputed, as also is the 
coming of Simeon Davis into Oneco, and the conclusion seems irresistible that 
Mr. Brewster did not settle in the county until the spring of 1834. That year 



228 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

was noticeable not only for the number but the sterling character of the 
additions made to the population. Among them were George Payne, who 
halted at Brewster's ferry, George W. Lott, who built a shanty in the present 
limits of Winslow Village, Harry and Jerry Waters, and A. 0. Ransom. To 
this latter gentleman belongs the honor of laying out the first town in the 
county. It was located about one and a half miles below Brewster's ferry, on 
the Pecatonica River, and derived its name in part from that of its founder, be- 
ing called " Ransomburg." It was regularly surveyed and platted, and on the 
map offered inducements of a character calculated to inspire the credulous with 
a desire to become identified with the town by investments, which proved to be 
permanent if not profitable. The map of the proposed city was illustrated in 
colors in the highest style of the lithographer's art. Streets and avenues 
intersected each other at measured distances; parks were laid out, and 
ornamented with shrubbery, fountains and statuary ; wharves were built and 
extended into the river, upon which a floating palace, under full head of steam, 
was to be seen suppositiously approaching the landing. Ransomburg, it was 
thought, would become the center of trade for the county, and the shipping- 
point for the surrounding country. It does not appear, however, that these 
considerations influenced purchasers, although the ubiquitous land-agent was 
doubtless abroad seeking whom he might devour, but his insatiable maw for 
profits probably remained unsatisfied, for the number of purchasers and the 
prices paid have remained in obscurity. Mr. Ransom established a store at the 
place, as did a Mr. Stewart, who disposed of his lot in the town for $500, dur- 
ing a visit to St. Louis when that city was in its infancy, and Miss Jane 
Goodhue opened a school there, the first in the county, which, with other im- 
provements, promised to confirm the predictions made respecting its rapid 
growth. But none of these predictions were ever, even in part, realized. The 
unappreciative public, for whose benefit the plans were projected, failed to avail 
themselves of the disinterested labors in their behalf, and the town lapsed, and 
finally became as a tale that is told. Mr. Ransom removed to Texas, where 
he afterward died, the improvements were left to decay, and a corn-field now 
occupies the site that once indicated the existence of Ransomburg. 

The impetus given to emigration by the pioneers mentioned gathered 
strength, however, and manifested itself through that entire year. Though the 
number who came and remained in Stephenson County was limited, they were 
men of brains and brawn, fully alive to the demands of the times, and equal to 
every emergency they were called upon to encounter. Some of those who have 
left no trace of their coming went further west; or, dismayed by the difficulties 
which met them on every hand, returned whence they came to enjoy the rather 
questionable honors accorded a prophet in his own land. The fall of 1834 wit- 
nessed the advent of 3ome who are still here, having grown up with the country 
and witnessed its transformation from an almost inaccessible wilderness to its 
present prosperous and cultivated condition. Among these were Jacob Amos, 
William Robey and family, which consisted of his wife, Levi Robey and wife, John, 
William W., Thomas L., Francis L., Elizabeth and Mary Robey, children of Will- 
iam Robey. The latter reached Brewster's ferry on the 21st of November. Mr. 
Robey, some time later, became lessee of the ferry, which he conducted for a num- 
ber of years, though at the time he made a claim on which he subsequently settled, 
near Cedarville, in Lancaster Township. At that time, the lands along the 
Pecatonica were heavily timbered, and filled with Indians. He came from Scioto 
County, Ohio, and journeyed via Dixon, Buffalo Grove, in Ogle County, 
thence to Brewster's Ferry, to the cabin of Simeon Davis, in Oneco, to Monroe, 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 229 

Wis., and back to Brewster's Ferry, from which vantage-ground Levi Robey 
was accustomed to start forth in search of an available point to make a claim 
and settle. Finally, he found a place that would suit, and on St. Valentine's 
day, 1835, he removed to the present town of Waddams, locating at a point on 
the bank of the Pecatonica, half a mile northeast of his present residence. Here 
he built a house, with an ax and a jack-knife to shape the logs, which were cut 
in the woods and hauled over the ice to the site of his future home. He was 
chary at first, he relates, about trusting the ice to bear the bui'den of his ox team, 
and the load they hauled. In the country whence he came, " ice bridges " were 
unknown mediums of communication. When he first went on the ice, that 
brittle and deceptive substance cracked ominously, and he apprehended that 
himself with his yoke of steers and house frame would go to the bottom instead 
of the place appointed for their reception. But he and his portables were pre- 
served from accident to find new difficulties staring him in the face when he 
considered the practicability of raising his ' ; frame " into position. These 
were overcome, however, and himself and family were in a brief time ensconced 
in their new home, without neighbors, mail facilities, access to supplies, or any 
of the absolute necessities which ar.e to-day obtained without the least exertion. 

The claim is made that during this year occurred the first birth in the 
county, the new-comer being a son to George W. Lott, who was born in the 
cabin of his father, then located in the present Winslow Township, between the 
villages of Winslow and Oneco. The Waddams family, however, opine that the 
birth of Amanda Waddams, in February, 1836, at the Waddams farm, on the 
road from Nora to Bobtown, was the pioneer birth in the county, and the same 
claim is also made for Lucy, daughter of Dr. Bankson, who was brought forth 
early in the latter year. 

From 1832 until 1835, the above constituted the settlements made in this 
immediate section. As already stated, there were a number who passed through 
the county en route to the lead mines, and tarried only long enough to rest and 
recuperate their energies sufficiently to continue their trip. But between the 
dates mentioned no settlements of a permanent character, other than those 
cited, were made. Indeed, it required an almost unlimited complement of 
courage and manhood to reconcile men to remove from the old homesteads, dis- 
solve old associations, and, cutting loose from the humanizing influences with 
which they had been surrounded from youth, turn their faces toward new fields 
wherein the foot of man never trod. Yet those who opened the way for the 
advance of civilization in the West were possessed of these qualities in a re- 
markable degree. They were the modern crusaders who fought against 
barbarism and savage occupation, with all the courage, gallantry and steadfast- 
ness of purpose that characterized their prototypes in the age of religious' 
enthusiasm and chivalry centuries ago. They were the counterparts of a 
grenadier of the old regime, who never in any sudden storm or rally, desperate 
melee or sorrowful encounter, forgot to doff his plumed hat to an adversary and 
cry out through his gray mustache as he shortened his sword arm, u En garde." 
They made the beginning of the present gratifying prosperity in the West, and 
dedicated themselves to promoting the happiness, gladdening the hearts and 
smoothing the pathway of those who came with them and after them to journey 
down the chequered aisles of Time. Thrice blessed are these brave men who 
never yielded up the chase even when afflictions and disappointment seemed to 
wail a requiem over their hopes and the dark clouds of adversity settled like a 
pall. 



230 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

The lives they led were far from being luxurious. No crops of consequence 
were raised, and even those who had money experienced difficulty in procuring 
the necessaries of life. The condition of families in indigent circumstances, at 
a time when wheat cost $4 a bushel, and a journey of forty or fifty miles was 
required before it could be ground, can be readily imagined. The nearest base 
of supplies was on the Mississippi, at Savannah and Galena, and in those days 
the arrival of a steamboat at either place was regarded as an event of so vital 
importance that it became the talk of the neighborhood. Some of the settlers 
obtained food for their families by hunting, but this was a precarious recourse, 
as game, excepting deer, was by no means plentiful. Often the hunter would 
go out in the morning to procure something for breakfast, but was compelled to 
pass the entire day without a mouthful to satisfy his hunger. It is related by one 
of the men who occupied a shanty, that himself and his companion were often 
glad, in days when meat was scarce, to procure pork sufficient to grease a grid- 
dle, and that upon one occasion his comrade and another young man made a 
hearty meal on rinds that had done service in this way, and were hard and 
green with mold. The same party stated that he has often worked hard for 
weeks together improving his land, on no better fare than Indian meal mixed 
with water. These were extreme cases, it is true, but those who for a moment 
imagine they led a life of ease and contentment are disposed to listen to the 
whisperings of fancy and not the truths of fact. Their lives were by no means 
enveloped in a halo of romance, but led in the midst of experiences the modern 
hero would shrink from. 

Very few of the present inhabitants of Stephenson County can realize the 
hardships to which the early settlers were subjected. Their houses were built 
of rough, unhewed logs, the cracks filled with mud, the roof composed of 
clapboards split from the timber, and secured by poles laid on the top, nails 
being an unknown article of trade. These rude habitations rarely contained 
windows or floors, or, if provided with the latter, they were composed of pun- 
cheons split from logs, and rendered comparatively smooth by hewing. If they 
left their cabins for any length of time, they might expect on their return to 
find that they had been visited during their absence by the Indians, who had 
relieved them of all the provisions they had in store. The farmer manufac- 
tured his own plows, fashioned his own drag, or utilized a young sapling in 
lieu thereof, and constructed his own wagon, and other farming implements, 
and, in nearly every case, without iron. The fur of the raccoon, fox, or 
wolf, furnished them with caps, the deer's hide, tanned at home, with 
pants, coat and shirt. Tea and coffee were luxuries, to be had at rare inter- 
vals, and used only upon special occasions ; as a substitute therefor the set- 
tlers provided peas, wheat and barley. When Mr. Waddams made his farm it 
contained but four acres, located in the timber, which he cleared, fenced and 
planted in corn and potatoes without the assistance of teams. When the iron 
plow was first introduced into the county it was regarded as a curiosity, con- 
demned as an innovation upon established custom, and as worthless for the 
objects for which it~was designed. The grain was threshed with flails, or by 
horses, and, when Hiram Waddams thrashed his wheat for the first time, in 
1839, with a traveling thrasher mounted upon wheels, the curiosity of his 
neighbors found expression in similar criticisms, that were in no degree abated 
when, in 1848, Pells Manny introduced a new era in harvesting by construct- 
ing the first harvester in this part of the country. It was termed a header, 
cutting the heads from off the grain eight inches below the hulls. This was 
an improvement upon the cradle where the grain stood up, but when down its 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 231 

success was not so gratifying. It was a cumbersome concern, and lasting but a 
short time, led the way to other experiments, until finally they brought forth 
the reaper which Mr. Manny subsequently invented and patented. Improve- 
ments, however, succeeded improvements in this invaluable farming implement, 
and the reapers of those days have long since become incidents of the past, and 
recurred to now only as illustrating the features of pioneer life with distinctness. 
It might be added in this connection that Mr. Manny still lives in the enjoy- 
ment of a hale old age, his home in the city of Freeport, surrounded by all that 
can smooth the decline of a life that has not been altogether uncheckered. 

The spring of 1835 is represented as having been a season of unparalleled 
beauty and bright promise. The forests were early decked with foliage, the 
prairies shone with the colors of the rainbow in the flowers and shrubberies 
that grew upon the surface, and all nature seemed to combine to lend enchant- 
ment to a scene no artist's hand can trace. Nothing was lacking to complete 
this unrivaled landscape represented in the territory of subsequent Stephenson 
County, which a resident of that day asserts rivaled in its magnificence the 
fabled beauties of Araby the blest. Crops were put in by the measured num- 
ber of agriculturists who then owned clearings, with confidence that the harvest 
would be plenteous; and improvements were made, which in a measure accom- 
modated the influx of immigration that year witnessed. An advance was also 
accomplished in other material interests, and wants were supplied which had 
previously been sorely experienced. With these blessings at the threshold, it is 
scarcely to be wondered at that settlers began to come in much more numerously 
than during previous years. The first who came were few, 'tis true, but before 
the year had gone, leaving behind it marks and pleasant memories, joys and 
shadows, the additions to the population had been increased by the arrival of 
representatives and families, who have been instrumental in building up and 
developing the latent wealth which lay hidden in the woods and plains of North- 
ern Illinois. 

Prominent among those who settled in Stephenson County that year were 
John and Benjamin Goddard, Henry and William Hollenbeck, George Trotter, 
Richard Parriott, Sr., and family, Levi Lucas, Robert Jones, Andrew St. John 
and others, who made claims in what has since been called Buckeye Township; 
Nelson Wait, Hubbard Graves and wife, Charles Gappen, Abijah Watson, John 
and Thomas Baker and William Willis established homes in Waddams ; James 
and W. H. Eels, Alvah Denton, Lemuel W. Streator and Hector P. Kneeland 
became identified with Winslow Township, and aided in the progress anticipated 
for Ransomburg ; Jefferson and Lewis Van Matre came to Oneco ; John B. 
Kaufman to present Erin : Miller Preston to Harlem ; James Timms, Jesse 
Willett, and Calvin and Jabez Giddings to Kent ; Albert Alberson, Eli Frank- 
eberger, and possibly Josiah Blackamore, to Rock Grove; Thomas Crain and 
family to Silver Creek ; Conrad Van Brocklin and Mason Dimmick, also Otis 
Love and family, to Florence ; Luman and Rodney Montague and William Tucker 
to West point, etc., etc. In addition to these, William Baker — who, it will be 
remembered, came into the county first in 1832 — returned to settle, after a 
temporary absence in Wisconsin, and laid the foundation for the present city of 
Freeport ; Thompson Wilcoxon also came in and staid a short time in Harlem, 
wherein he finally settled during the following year; Harvey P. Waters and 
Lyman Bennett arrived at the mouth of Yellow Creek in the fall, where they 
remained until the spring of 1836, when they removed to Ridott and, with A. 
J. Niles, formed the nucleus of settlements subsequently made in that township. 



232 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

James Timms, who came that year, as already stated, took possession of the 
Kellogg house, wherein he resided for many years, and raised a family, members 
of which are to-day living, prominently identified with the agricultural resources 
of the county. Benjamin Goddard stopped first with Mr. Robey, which was 
fifteen miles from any road traveled by wagon. The Montagues settled near 
Waddam's Grove, where they built a house of logs, the floors of which were 
made of bass-wood. And so on. Hubbard Graves settled near Levi Robey's, 
and the remainder of those mentioned found abiding places which, if they were 
attended with an absence of privileges and immunities from care, possessed 
comforts which were, in those times, of priceless value. 

The settlers experienced the same difficulties, in a measure, while providing 
themselves with homes that those who came in the year previous had encount- 
ered. 

The Winnebago Indians, in vagrant squads, yet remained in the county, 
and not unfrequently annoyed the settlers by petty thefts or trespasses upon 
their hospitality. Among other losses sustained through their felonious acts, 
was the loss of an entire drove of hogs, which they stole from William Wad- 
dams. Robert Jones and Levi Lucas maintained a bachelors' retreat about 
this time on their claim, near the present village of Cedarville, and during their 
absence upon one occasion the Indians effected an entrance into the cabin left 
tenantless, which they robbed of a number of articles, including razors, game, 
wild honey and tobacco. Upon the return of the owners, an Indian was 
observed stealing out of the cabin. When they ascertained that their house- 
hold goods had been levied upon, it was decided that the savage had partici- 
pated in the robbery, and they concluded to follow him up, to, if possible, 
recover their valuables or ascertain where they could be obtained. Acting upon 
this conclusion, they started in pursuit of the fugitive, whom they overtook in 
the woods while he was in the act of shooting a wild turkey. Before he had 
time to comprehend the object of pursuit, Jones rushed up to him and, seizing 
his gun, threatened to inflict capital punishment in the case if he did not imme 
diately restore what had been taken. After some demurring and pleas in 
confession and avoidance, he offered to restore the articles missed if Jones and 
Lucas would accompany him to his wigwam. This they consented to do, and 
were conducted several miles through the woods, coming suddenly into an 
encampment of about thirty braves who, with their families, were quietly rest- 
ing after the fatigues of the day. They comprehended the critical situation in 
which they had permitted themselves to be placed at a glance, and, though 
apprehensive of results, calmed their fears, and putting on a bold front, entered 
the circle of encamping savages and sat down. After a prolonged parley, 
devoid of anger, the Indian who had conducted them thither disappeared, and 
after a brief absence, returned with their tobacco, which was restored, but 
assured them that the razors and provisions were in posession of a branch of the 
tribe residing on Yellow Creek. When these preliminaries had been con- 
cluded, the old Indian related his interview with Jones and Lucas in the forest, 
how his rifle had been taken from him, and he had thereby been prevented 
from bagging a wild turkey ; embellished with exaggeration and emphasized 
with gesticulations that enforced conviction in the savage breast more persua- 
sively than the charm of exquisite music possesses for the aesthetic admirer 
of the divine art. As a result, his eloquence did not fall upon barren 
ground, but was responded to by loud murmurs of dissatisfaction from the 
assembled council, and excited the Indians to a degree unprecedented, who 
expressed their opinions in language both loud and threatening. Upon behold- 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 233 

ing this unexpected storm, Jones sought to placate their anger by a show of 
generosity, and dividing his tobacco among the thievish gang, waited for their 
anger to subside. A calm succeeded the fierce outburst which the settlers had 
witnessed, and Jones succeeded in effacing any remembrance of his accusation 
for the time being at least by tickling the Indian maidens, gathered there, under 
the chin and indulging in other harmless pleasantries with them, which cemented 
the reconciliation, though, as Mr. Jones related to the writer, his gallantry was 
never more severely taxed than when making love to the greasy beauties of the 
Winnebagoes to save his possessions and, possibly, preserve the capillary inte- 
guments which constituted his scalp. After "swinging on the gate " for a brief 
period with their hostesses, Jones and Lucas departed, and passed the night at 
Benjamin Goddard's cabin, south of Cedarville. The following morning they 
accompanied Mr. Goddard to William Baker's claim, to assist the latter in 
raising his cabin. During that trying period, and while the cabin frame hung 
in the balance, so to speak, a party of the Yellow Creek branch of the tribe 
hove in sight, doubtless attracted thither in the hope that they would be invited 
to partake of the supply of metheglin, the attendant concomitant of similar 
undertakings in the times that more than tried men's souls, patience and tem- 
per. When they came on to the ground, Mr. Jones, reinforced by the reserve 
at his back, informed them that he was entirely familiar with their depredations 
on his property, and demanded the return of his stolen razors, in default of 
which they would receive the punishment of death, without benefit of clergy. 
Thus admonished, they agreed to the alternative, and pointing to the sky, indi- 
cated that when the sun reached the meridian they would restore his property, 
and, starting off, as if pursued by the Evil Spirit of Indian theology, for their 
camp, returned at the appointed hour with the razors. 

After this time the Indians were no longer factors in the county. Accord- 
ing to the statement contained in a publication of the times, " Tradition still 
points to a place near the foot of Stephenson street where Winnesheik, after 
vainly resisting the power of the white people until hope had perished, and 
being hemmed in by hostile pursuers, leaped into the swollen Pecatonica and 
swimming to the opposite shore escaped from his enemies, never to return." 
In this instance tradition is not to be relied upon for the facts, for " Coming 
Thunder " did return, after many days, and beheld with astonishment the 
advances made by the white race in the domain over which himself and his race 
once exercised exclusive control. During one of his visits to Freeport, a 
daughter of Mrs. Oscar Taylor who had been named " Winnesheik," in compli- 
ment to the old chief, was presented to him. But he failed to appreciate the 
distinguished honor conferred, and expressed his 'disgust in words of unintelli- 
gible patois, accompanied by contemptuous shrugs of his shoulders. 

Among those who are noted as having settled in Stephenson County during 
the year William Baker, Benjamin Goddard, Levi Robey and others are 
remembered with feelings of pleasure by those of their neighbors still living, as 
also by the thousand and one prominent citizens who have grown up with the 
county, or come into and become part of it since it was incorporated, and 
assumed a front place in the northern tier of Illinois counties. As already 
mentioned, Baker came into the county proper at a daylong since recorded among 
the events that have been, and remained only a sufficient length of time to 
establish his claim, when he returned to his family. In December, 1835, 
accompanied by his son Frederick, who still lives a citizen of Freeport, and 
others, he re-visited his claim and so directed his campaign in the wilderness 
that the present flourishing city of Freeport was the result. They were men, 



234 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

it is said, of wonderful inventive genius, possessed of much of that nature which 
makes the whole world kin, persons of infinite wit and endless resource. They 
possessed the happy faculty of so adapting themselves to circumstance, as that 
they were not only always in a good humor themselves, but prevailed against 
afflictions in others, and resolved gloom into sunshine. They were men of 
unbounded hospitality, impulsive, of quick sensibilities and warm sympathies, 
and so constituted that without the presence of men of their kind, the world 
would be less humane, and new settlements less advanced with the departure 
of each season. Baker has left the city of Freeport. and the remainder of the 
county as monuments for posterity to learn of them, and their multitude of 
friends throughout the great West recall their lives with smiles of pleasure 
when reflecting upon the many cheerful hours they have passed in their 
company. 

During the balance of the year 1835, there was nothing of interest occur- 
ring which can be ascertained, either effected a change in the situation as 
already described, or proposed a different outlook for the future. Those who 
had come in during the year, with others, doubtless, whose names have not 
been preserved, extended the settlements to various parts of the county, where 
claims were perfected by possession and occupation, and their improvement 
settled down to. There were no amusements in those days, as one of the 
old settlers remarked upon being interrogated on that subject. " Why, bless 
you man, we worked ; and when we finished the chores at night," he continued, 
"we were ready to smoke and go to bed." Their amusements were such as 
aided them in preparing amusements for the future. Up with the dawn, whence 
they labored constantly, with a brief intermission at noon for lunch, until 
sunset ; they indeed earned their bread in the sweat of their brows, and sank 
down to rest at nightfall with the consciousness that some headway had been 
made by them on the great highway of life, and that if fortune refused to smile 
upon their efforts, she would not embargo their advance. 

As with amusements, so it was with schools and churches. The absence of 
the former was duplicated in the latter respect. There were none of either. 
The schoolmaster was not abroad in Stephenson County that year, and beyond 
the solitary circuit rider, who came at long intervals, if he came at all in the 
days of this period, there was no representative of the Church to be seen or 
heard of. And, if the truth be told, as [conservators of morals, there was no 
call for their presence. The settlers had no spare time to listen to the charm- 
ings of Satan, and, if they had, they were so distant removed from the base of 
supplies that no mischief could have been provided for idle hands to do. From 
these alleged facts, it would- seem that nothing -remained for them but the 
development of the country and the providing of homes for days when age 
could not supply the deficiencies of youth, arid the promise of yesterday 
remained unfulfilled. Such was the case without exaggeration ; they knew no 
avoidance of duty, sought no means that would aid them in violating their 
obligations, but toiled on and persevered in the path of duty until the dawn of 
perfect days, and the triumph of mind over matter enabled them to rest from 
their labors and partake of that reward reserved for those who " drag up 
drowned honor from the locks." 

The winter of 1835 was, according to general report, as inhospitable and 
cheerless as the spring previous had been ''childlike and bland." Breaking 
the prairie was continued until late in the fall, when the frost congealed 
earth's moisture so effectually as to forbid the husbandman from further 
labors in that behalf. Their efforts were then transferred to the timber, 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 235 

and through the eager and nipping air of December trees were felled and timber 
hewn for houses, stables, mills and other conveniences requiring time and 
material to provide. There were no mills in the county at the date men- 
tioned, and, when meal or flour was required, a lengthy and fatiguing trip was 
necessary before either could be obtained. No supplies of this or a kindred 
character could be obtained nearer than Galena, Dixon, Peoria and other 
distant points. In the straits these circumstances placed the settlers, occasion- 
all} they improvised mills and inaugurated schemes that materially aided in 
relieving their immediate necessities. When they were at a loss for meal or 
flour, yet possessed the grain to grind, the settler would cut down a large oak 
tree, smooth off the stump and build a fire in the center to burn out the heart 
of the wood. When the interior was sufficiently charred, the part thus rendered 
easy to chop was chopped out with an axe until a rude mortar, capable of 
containing a peck or more of corn, was provided. When these preparations 
were concluded, the self-constituted miller would rig up a sweep, similar, in 
some respects, if not in power and dimensions, to the old-fashioned well-sweep, 
in one end of which he drove an iron wedge, and, using this as a pestle, he 
pounded the corn. When it was reduced to the consistency of the coarsest 
quality of meal, he would toss the product up and winnow it with his breath, after 
which it was ready for use, and the corn-dodgers mixed therefrom and baked 
in the ashes are said to have been sweeter than the honey of Hymettus. 

Although the acreage of timber was in some places nearly equal to the area 
of prairie, the former was, as a rule, employed only in the building of cabins 
wherein to reside. If the settler had a drove of cattle or hogs, and there were 
those who did boast such possessions, they were allowed to range at will without 
protection from the elements. In some instances, however, the farmer secured 
comfortables stables, built of sods, which were to be obtained in every furrow of 
the virgin prairie turned up. And these, it is said, formed better bricks than 
the Hebrews could have furnished Pharaoh before he denied them straw. Out 
of this prairie quarry the laborer was enabled to obtain sufficient sod to com- 
plete an outhouse large enough to accommodate his horse and cow, when the 
bleak winds of November chilled them to the marrow, and materially interfered 
with their usefulness and capacity to sustain burdens. 

One peculiar feature of life here in those days was the entire absence of 
homesickness among the settlers. Inquiries in that direction failed to elicit 
any response tending to prove the existence of this much dreaded malady in 
the settlement. On the contrary, all were full of heart and hope, assured of 
becoming lords of the land and looking forward to a day when this assurance 
should be made doubly sure by possession. But 7 the absence of the complaint 
suggested was doubtless due to the same causes which denied them amusements 
and other privileges mentioned. In addition to these, it might be stated that 
in temporal affairs the settlers were as innocent of that which distracted the 
brain of those nearer the centers of trade, as was Evangeline's father of the 
wiles of the world. Politics then caused them no concern ; there were no office- 
holders or office-seekers, and the poetry and pleasure of their lives was undis- 
turbed by promises from the former, or appeals from the latter, until long after 
civil government was established. Yet, notwithstanding the many advantages and 
privileges vouchsafed them, there were no markets for the surplus harvests raised, 
if such there should be, and little to mitigate the severity of disease or secure its 
prevention or cure. A writer of the times details that " they led happy lives, 
satisfied that they would live and die on their own estate. When the land 
should come into market, they would obtain title thereto and own it from the 



236 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

surface to the stars, and from their cabin floors all the way down to the center 
of the globe." These claims, which have been referred to so frequently, was 
the "unwritten law of the settlers themselves." It guaranteed possession to 
him who first picked out a spot as his own and "blazed" a tree around it, or 
marked it with a furrow in the sod through the prairie. To this he had an 
undoubted right, an indisputable "claim" against all comers, save the Govern- 
ment, whence he expected to buy when the lands were offered for sale in the 
market. They were generally 640 acres, and occasionally included much more, 
while some speculators, assuming to be settlers, were disposed to claim the 
country around for the purpose of holding the same and disposing of it at 
advanced rates to those who came after them. But they did not always succeed 
in the ungenerous undertakings, and were almost invariably left in the vocatire. 
When the sales of land were made at Dixon, in 1848, the contest between pur- 
chasers thereat and those who held possession under this "unwritten law" were 
numerous and prolonged. Not unfrequentiy harsh measures were deemed 
necessary to quiet title, and the claim societies organized years before in antici- 
pation of these difficulties, to express it in the language of one of their mem- 
bers, "had their hands full." But time at last, which sets all things even, 
dissipated the bickerings born of these events, and the legal claimants were, 
as a general rule, protected in their rights. 

The year 1836 was characterized by a still larger immigration than that of 
either of the preceding years. According to the opinions of many who were 
on the ground and competent to judge, the history of the county properly 
commences with that annual Those who had become msmbers of the body 
politic by residence and improvement, sent back to the homes whence they 
came glowing accounts of this beautiful land, with her broad, billowy prairies, 
replete with buds and blossoms, with her wooded fastnesses, in which the deer 
and smaller game roamed at pleasure; of the water-power that her streams 
would afford, and many other items of interest, which conspired to render the 
country not only fascinating to the traveler, but productive under the horny 
hand of toil. Why remain at the East, circumscribed in their possessions, 
when they could obtain domains of unlimited extent and fertility by joining 
fortunes with those already here, was asked of those at home who had been 
vouchsafed a "New Dispensation " in Illinois. The descriptions sent thither, 
and the queries propounded, produced their natural results. They induced 
reflection and a comparison of advantages enjoyed at home with those that 
could be secured in other fields. These reflections begat a feeling of discontent 
and unhappiness in the breasts of the toilers by whom they were indulged, and 
this discontent and unhappiness culminated in their decision to " pull up 
stakes " and find in the West, if not the Fountain of Youth, the rock of end- 
less resources, which needed only to be smote that abundant streams of reve- 
nue might gush forth. Adopting the lang'uage of one who has discoursed most 
eloquently on the subject, " The spring of 1836" witnessed an unprecedented 
flow of immigration from all quarters into the county. Farms were opened, 
cabins built, blacksmith and other shops improvised ; beside the stumps of trees 
men began to talk and plan for the future, women made calls and visits, and 
submitted to all the trials, privations and hardships of their frontier life with a 
heroism and faith that cheered the hearts and nerved the arms of the sterner 
sex in many a season of gloom and despondency." 

Among those who settled in the county this year was a young man who, by 
the force of his real merit, indomitable energy and personal character, elevated 
himself to one of the most prominent and honorable positions within the power 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 237 

of the people to confer. Beginning life amid discouraging surroundings, 
restrained from choice in the adoption of a pursuit by the iron hand of penury, 
Thomas J. Turner found his way into Stephenson County in May, 1836, and. 
having made a claim in the eastern part thereof, erected a mill near Farwell's 
ferry on the Pecatonica, at the mouth of Rock Run, where he began the battle 
of life with none of the auxiliaries that attend modern youth in their wrestles 
with fate. In company with Julius Smith and B. Thatcher, he built a cabin 
for his protection, and, when not occupied in discharging his duties at the mill, 
was storing his mind with knowledge that laid the foundation for future 
eminence on the hustings, at the bar, and in the councils of the nation. Pro- 
visions at the time spoken of were scarce, and for several days, as he subsequently 
stated, himself and his companions had nothing whatever but boiled corn to 
eat. Not relishing this unpalatable edible, however, as a steady diet, he started 
for Galena in order that he might supply the larder with corn that had been 
eaten up. About dark on the first day of his journeying, he reached a cabin 
on the opposite side of the Pecatonica, and announced his presence by repeated 
hallooings. After a season a lad manned a canoe, and ferried him across the 
river, where he was introduced into the cabin of Mr. William Baker. The 
head of the house was absent, as he learned upon inquiry, having gone to Peoria 
for a stock of supplies, but he received a hospitable welcome from the lady of 
the house and her houseful of children. After an exchange of compliments, 
he asked for food and the good woman said he should have some, but all she 
had to offer were two small "corndodgers" and the remains of a catfish. The 
visitor was nearly famished, he had even gone without his usual meal of boiled 
corn, but he refused to take the scanty supply in the house and declined her ten- 
der, after properly acknowledging its proffer. She insisted, and assured 
him that her husband would return in time to prevent them from starving, 
besides the boys had got the line out and would have another catfish before 
morning. He retired to sleep with an exalted opinion of frontier hospitality, 
and during the night his slumbers were disturbed by the barking of dogs and an 
unusual commotion out of doors. Upon rising to investigate, he ascertained 
that the disturbance arose by reason of the return of Mr. Baker, accom- 
panied by an abundant store of provisions, upon part of which he feasted in the 
morning, and continued his trip to Galena. Here he obtained work, and pro- 
curing a stock of supplies, he returned to his claim in the county, to meet and 
dispose of new embarassments, endure other hardships and privations, until he 
amassed sufficient means to enable him to live without the constant apprehen- 
sion of want uppermost in his mind. 

His was not a remote instance of the privations that were suffered by the 
early settlers of Stephenson County, to be recurred to in after years when the 
struggle, the strife, the pain, the turmoil of life were nearly over, as experiences 
that were gained in adversity to be handed down to their children when the tale 
is told, is finished and ended. As these facts are recited, there are many whose 
lives Avere duplicates of that led by Col. Turner, who survive him, and can 
attest their truth ; there be many too upon whose lips the seal of death has 
been set. No' word can reach the ears of these dead sleepers, but departing they 
have left behind them the stories of lives that shall be told and oft repeated in 
the "evening tent," by the household hearth, and wherever the memory of the 
brave and true is venerated and revered. 

This scarcity of provisions mentioned as existing as late as 1836, is in part 
accounted for by the fact that the area of cultivation was not measurably increased 
by that time. There were no roads, no bridges and few ferries, and the means 



238 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

of communicating with points at which supplies could be obtained were 
exceedingly meager. Three saw-mills had been commenced — one at Winslow 
by Thomas Lott, the second on Yellow Creek by William Kirkpatrick, and 
Turner's Mill at the mouth of Rock Run, but none of them were completed 
until late in the season. There were no grist-mills north of the Illinois River; 
during the year William Kirkpatrick erected a corn cracking machine on 
Yellow Creek, which was also used as a grist-mill, but it was a poor substitute, 
and was employed to crack wheat as well as corn. The houses were nearly all 
built of logs, and as the settler was unable to build his cabin single-handed, 
"raisings" were cheerfully assisted at by neighbors for miles around. 

In this vear a " claim meeting " was organized, being among the first of the 
kind in the county. Its object was to defend each member in the possession of 
his respective claim. The officers consisted of a President, Secretary and Board 
of Directors. If the claim of any member was encroached upon the party suffer- 
ing was to notify the officers, who were authorized to make an investigation ; 
if it be found that the cause of complaint is just, the trespasser was to be 
warned to abandon the claim within five days. If he remained delinquent at 
the expiration of that period he was to be "carefully removed with his effects 
from the premises." These were the chief provisions of the constitution as 
adopted, supplemented by a general understanding that two sections, two miles 
square, should constitute the extreme limit that heads of families might 
"claim." 

The previous year, William Baker had erected an "Indian trading post" at 
the mouth of the creek which now empties into Pecatonica River within the 
limits of Freeport, thus practically beginning the building of that city. In the 
following year, he built a house in the future city, of hewn logs, the first pre- 
tentious establishment in Stephenson County, as also the first hotel in the 
section. Soon after, the town was laid out, and a company formed for the sale 
of lots, composed of Mr. Baker, William Kirkpatrick and W. T. Galbraith. A 
limited emigration drifted hither during the year, including L. 0. Crocker, 0. 
H. Wright, Joel Dodds, Jacob Goodheart, Hiram G. Eads, John Hinkle, James 
Burns, Robert Smith, Benjamin R. Wilmot, John Brown and others. The 
improvements made elsewhere in the county were meager, though in Freeport 
a comparative number of houses went up under the direction of the company 
and those who came there as a result of their labors. Ransomburg was still in 
existence and, with Freeport, made up the sum total of settlements that bore 
the appearance of villages in the county. 

The remainder of the vast territory was, when occupied, devoted to farming 
purposes, with all that the term implies, and though agriculture had just com- 
menced to be a factor in the new country, it was attended with abundant returns. 
The exact number who settled in Stephenson County that year cannot be deter- 
mined with any degree of accuracy. Their name was not legion, however, as they 
can almost be counted without an extended knowledge of mathematics. Har- 
mony existed between them in all the departments of life that became the 
outgrowth of their coming. No bickerings disturbed the friendly relations 
which existed ; a commendable absence of disorder was apparent, all combined 
their best efforts to bring order out of chaos and redeem the country from 
unproductiveness, or the production that benefited no man. And this was as 
it should be. The advance of civilization in the world, as illustrated in the 
origin and consolidation of empires, monarchies and republics, from the days of 
Romulus and Remus to the present, is measured by the limits of public tran- 
quility, during which nations gain their highest elevation, weakening and 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY, 239 

lamentable antagonisms and international strifes causing them to sink below 
the level of obscurity. 

In addition to those already cited as having settled in the vicinity of Free- 
port, the following persons, some of them with their families, came in and made 
claims at dhTerent points in the county: Pells Manny, Alfred and San- 
ford Giddings, Washington Perkey, " Widow " Swanson and family, Thomas 
Flynn, E. Mullarkey, Henry Hulse, M. Welsh. William and Leonard Lee, 
Nathan Blackamore, Aaron Baker, Jehu Pile, Ira Job, Daniel Holly, Lydia 
Wait and family, Thomas Hawkins, John Boyington, N. Phillips, John Lobdell, 
L. M. and Jeremiah Grigsby, Barney Stowell, a man named Velie, Nicholas 
Marcellus, John Dennison, W. P. Bankson, M. D., the first physician to settle in 
the county, Harmon Coggeshall, James Macomber, Alonzo Denio, Duke Chilton, 
William Kirkpatrick, Gilbert Osborn, A. J. Niles, Sanford Niles, Sawyer 
Forbes, Daniel Wooten, John Reed, E. H. D. Sanborn, the Ostranders, Garrett 
Lloyd, Asa Nichols, Lorenzo Lee, Madison Carnefex, Phillip Fowler, D. W. C. 
Mailory, Joseph Norris, Thomas Hathaway, with his mother-in-law, a Mrs. 
Brown, James Shinkle, and perhaps two or three others whose names not having 
been preserved are unintentionally omitted. 

From this record it will be seen that the population of the county, owing to 
the attractions held out per se, as also to the favorable reports which had been 
carried back East by the videttes of the army of civilization which afterwards 
followed and took possession, was materially augmented. 

The winter of 1836-37 was a repetition of that of 1834-35. The cold was 
intense, and its severity to-day is quoted as one among the wonderful mys- 
teries of nature revealed at long intervals to the curious, if not entirely grate- 
ful human family. There was, as a result, very little done in the way of build- 
ing, or improving the land. A happy-go-lucky sort of a life was led, as most 
of the settlers had become comparatively comfortable, and remaining generally 
in their cabins, took scarcely any thought of the morrow, content to wait until 
the icy fetters of winter were permanently severed before arranging for future 
campaigns. During the fall, lands to a large amount were entered in the State 
of Illinois, of which a reasonable proportion was located in Stephenson County. 
From this, it was not unreasonable to conclude that an extraordinary tide of 
emigration would set in with the spring of 1837. This fired the ideas of 
farmers and business men with the hope of attaining fortunes suddenly, and 
caused almost unlimited investments ; to prevent them from becoming a drug 
upon the hands of purchasers, as also to invite immigration to the State, a 
system of internal improvements was formulated, based on the faith and credit 
of the State. A bill providing for the construction of railroads, the building 
of canals and improvement of rivers was adopted by the Legislature, and great 
results were expected. But these expectations were never realized. The 
internal improvement system collapsed entirely almost before it had been tested, 
the suspension of banks became frequent and hard times obtained wherever two 
or three had gathered together in one place. The effect of this in the State 
was to retard immigration for a brief period, and although Stephenson County 
escaped its direct effects, there is no doubt but that its growth and development 
was temporarily checked. Merchandising during this period was made up of the 
retailing of a, few groceries and necessaries, and the money received, where 
the trade was not a barter, was sent abroad for the payment of goods, which 
drained the country of anything like a sufficient currency and added to the 
inconveniences experienced, as also aggravated the panic of that year. This 
calamity, however, was not felt to any appreciable extent in Stephenson 



°240 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

County, say those who were here in those days, but reserved for their benefit 
twenty years later, when the East and West were threatened with financial ruin 
by the monetary difficulties which overran the country in 1857. 

A cursory review of the situation in the county, from the day when William 
Waddams came into what was then a part of Jo Daviess County, to the organi- 
zation of the county by legislative enactment, not five years after, reveals a 
condition of affairs as changed as they were singularly wonderful and encour- 
aging. During that period the number of inhabitants had increased in a 
remarkable degree. Wild and untrodden prairies had been resolved into farms 
under a comparatively high state of cultivation. Houses had been built of a 
more imposing character than Mr. Waddams believed would appear in the 
ensuing decade, forests had been felled, roads surveyed and towns laid out ; the 
water power applied to beneficial uses and "internal improvements" contem- 
plated, which should appreciate the value of property, increase the attractions 
offered immigrants and accomplish the greatest good for the greatest number. 
This was the situation when spring opened in 1837, and active operations were 
begun by the people. 

The first marriage to occur in the county is a question involved in doubt. 
Some maintain that the ceremony took place in Ransomburg during the year 
1836, while others assert it was postponed until a year later. The couple 
united at Ransomburg is said to have been a Mr. Gage and Melindy Eels. The 
fact, however, is claimed by old settlers about Winslow, that the marriage 
of Dr. W. G. Bankson to Phoebe Macomber took place in the fall of 1836, and 
if any wedding had preceded that in the county they are unfamiliar with the 
contracting parties. A colporteur or Squire Waddams officiated upon this latter 
occasion, but who attended in a similar capacity at the marriage of Mr. Gage 
and Miss Eels, is not susceptible of proof. 

The first death is quoted as occurring the same year, also the first birth. 
The former was a son of Lemuel Streator, in the township of Winslow, and 
the latter, as already referred to, was Amanda Waddams, the date of her com- 
ing being during the month of February. 

All of these events came to pass prior to the separation of the county 
from Jo Daviess, to which they properly belong, and are only mentioned in 
this connection as evidence of the fact that life, marriage and death visited the 
homes of settlers, and that grief and joy, pleasure and sorrow, were as freely 
distributed as in the days which have followed. 

With the advance that had been made in the five years mentioned, the peo- 
ple were proud. Though few in number they thanked God for it ; they 
thanked Him that their lives were cast in such pleasant places ; they felt that 
their homes were established, whence they would not depart from until the 
summons came to join the innumerable throng marching to that mysterious 
realm in the dim land of dreams, and, with quiet, genial, loving promptings, 
united in a common cause, they contemplated the future, not as children con- 
template the darkness of the night, but full of hope for the days that were yet 
hidden in its unfathomable depth. 

Up to the spring of 1837 there was no civil organization among the settlers. 
the territory, as has been stated, being under the jurisdiction of Jo Daviess 
County, though, as one of the chroniclers details, but few of them knew it. 
The differences arising between them, when any occurred, proceeding from the 
disputes engendered regarding the boundaries of claims. How these were dis- 
posed of when arbitration failed of adjustment is known, sometimes summarily 
but without litigation. Industry, frugality and hospitality were the ruling 




rD 




f -7 



tfsHA-Z 



FREEPORT. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 243 

maxims among them, and they lived together in peace. Though without many 
of the accessories of civilization, or the comforts of life, many live to-day who 
regret that those days of trial and adventure are past, and the rude cabin with 
the rifle hanging above the entrance, possess a charm for them unspeakable. 

On the 4th of March, 1837, the Legislature, then in session at Vandalia, 
passed an act providing for the organization of the county, as follows : 

Section 1. — Be it enacted by the people of the State of Illinois represented in the General 
Assembly, That all tract of that country within the following boundaries, to wit : commencing on the 
northern boundery of the State where the section line between sections three and four, in town 
twenty-nine north, range five, east of the fourth principal meridian strikes said line, and thence 
east on the northern boundary of the State, to the range line between ranges nine and ten east, 
thence south on said range line to the northern boundary of Ogle County, thence west on the 
northern boundary of Ogle County to and passing the northeast corner of the county, to the 
line between sections thirty-three and thirty-four, in township twenty-six north, range five east 
to the place of beginning, shall form a county to be called Stephenson, as a tribute of respect to 
the late Col. Benjamin Stephenson. 

Sec. 2 — An election shall be held at the house of .William Baker, in said county, on the first 
Monday of May next, for one Sheriff, one Coroner, one Recorder, one County Surveyor, three 
County Commissioners, and one Clerk of the County Commissioner's Court, who shall hold their 
offices until the next succeeding general elections, and until their successors are elected and 
qualified ; which said election shall be conducted in all respects agreeable to the provisions of 
the law regulating elections. Provided, That the qualified voters present may elect from their own 
number three qualified voters to act as judges of said election, who shall appoint two qualified 
voters to act as clerks. 

By a further provision of this act, the counties of Stephenson and Boone 
contrived to form a part of the county of Jo Daviess until their organization, 
and they were also afterwards to be attached to Jo Daviess in all general elec- 
tions, until otherwise provided for by law. 

In pursuance of this act, an election was accordingly held at the house of 
William Baker on the first Monday of May, 1837, at which James W. Fowler, 
Thomas J. Turner and Orleans Daggett were selected as judges, with Benjamin 
Goddard and John C. Wickham as Clerks. The total number of votes cast 
was 121. William Kirkpatrick was elected Sheriff; Lorenzo Lee, Coroner ; 
Oestes H. Wright, Commissioner's Clerk and Recorder ; Lemuel W. Streator, 
Isaac S. Forbes and Julius Smith, Commissioners, and Frederick D. Bukley, 
County Surveyor. Of these, the first officers of Stephenson County, Fred- 
rick D. Bukley alone survives, the remainder, it is believed, having crossed 
over the river, are resting beneath the trees that line its banks. On the 8th 
of May, the County Commissioners' Court convened according to law, at which 
the officers elected the week previous qualified, after which the Court proceeded 
to lay off the county into election precincts and dispose of other business de- 
manding its attention. During the session of the Court, a drunken man who 
was noisy and pugnacious was arrested by Sheriff Kirkpatrick and locked up in 
William Baker's root house, where he was kept until the liquor had spent its 
force, when he was discharged. If to-day an inebriated warrior in pursuit of 
trouble and gore should collide with an officer of the law, he would be furnished 
with quarters in the calaboose, and when sober charged for his accommodations 
at rates that would astonish the economical tipstaff of 1837. 

Among other orders entered on the Commissioners' book upon that memor- 
able occasion, was one prohibiting inn-keepers from charging more than 37^ 
cents for a meal, 12J cents for a night's lodging, 25 cents for a measure of oats, 
and the same price for a horse to hay over night. That order, it is believed, 
has never been repealed, but is never enforced and has become a dead letter. 
The electoral precincts, as then laid off, were as follows: — 
Rock Grove Precinct began at the northeast corner of the county and ran 
south six miles, thence west nine miles, thence north to the State line, thence 



244 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

on the line to the place of beginning. Jonathan Cora, J. R. Blackamore and 
Eli Frankeberger were appointed Judges. 

Silver Creek Precinct commenced at the southeast corner of Rock Grove 
Precinct and ran south to the south line of the county, thence seven miles 
west, thence north, striking the line of Rock Grove Precinct, thence east to 
the place of beginning. Horace Colburn, N. Salsbury and Philo Hammond, 
Judges. 

Brewster Precinct commenced at the northwest corner of Rock Grove Pre- 
cinct, running south six miles, west eleven miles, north to the State line and 
east to the place of beginning. L. R. Hull, John M. Curtiss and N. C. Ran- 
som, Judges. 

Central Precinct commenced at the northwest corner of Silver Creek Pre- 
cinct, ran south five miles, west thirteen miles, north to the southwest corner 
of Brewster Precinct, thence east to the place of beginning. Ira Jones, Levi 
Lucas and Alpheus Goddard, Judges. 

Waddams Precinct commenced at the northwest corner of Brewster Precinct, 
ran south to the south line of the county, thence west on the county line to the 
west line, north on the line to the north line of the county, and east to the place 
of beginning. John Garner, William Waddams and Othniel Preston were 
appointed Judges. 

Freeport Precinct began at the southeast corner of Central Precinct, ran 
south to the south line of the county, west to the east line of Waddams Pre- 
cinct, north to the south line of Central Precinct, and east to the place of begin- 
ning, with Seth Scott, A. M. Preston and L. 0. Crocker, Judges. 

The act creating the county also authorized Vance L. Davidson, Isaac Cham- 
bers and Miner York to locate the county seat, appointing them Commissioners 
for that purpose; and as soon as their appointment, together with the object, was 
promulgated, the fun began in earnest as to where the court house should be 
located. Propositions for the county seat were submitted from all parts of the 
county where any approach to a settlement had been made, and the advantages 
offered by the several claimants were no doubt urged with a pertinacity that 
equalled eloquence. The principal rivalry, however, existed between Cedarville, 
then in futuro, and Freeport, which by this time contained as many as half a 
dozen houses, a store, saloon, hotel and other adjuncts of progress. On behalf 
of the former place its locality was urged as one of the principal arguments. 
It would, when built up, occupy the center of the county, within easy reach of 
the most distant citizen. In addition to this, there were other features of excel- 
lence which were not presented by Freeport or any other mooted point. But 
the claims of the latter place carried the day, the argument advanced by 
William Baker being that the site for the court-house should be donated, sup- 
plemented by the assurance that each of the Commissioners should receive a 
lot. This inducement, the Rev. F. C. Winslow thought, influenced the judgment 
of the Commissioners, and biased their decision in making the award. At all 
events, they concluded upon Freeport as the most available site, and in June, 
1837, issued the following proclamation as the result of their deliberations: 

We, the Commissioners appointed by the Legislature of the State of Illinois, to locate the 
county seat of Stephenson County and State aforesaid, have located said Seat of Justice, on 
the northwest quarter of Section 31, in Township 27, north, Range 8, east of the Fourth Prin- 
cipal Meridian, now occupied and claimed by William Kirkpatrick & Co., William Baker and 
Smith Galbraith. 

Whereunto we have set our hands and seals this 12th day of June, A. D. 1837. 

(Signed,) V. L. DAVIDSON. 

ISAAC CHAMBERS. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 245 

When the agony was over the people returned to their usual avocations, and 
though it was alleged that the Commissioners had acted inequitably in the 
premises, no one has been found, in the light of subsequent events, to condemn 
the policy adopted on that occasion. 

The next most important event in the -history of the times, was the first 
marriage solemnized according to law after the county was organized, and 
requiring the issue of a licence to make it legally binding. 

The parties to the contract were Eunice, daughter of William Waddams, 
and George Place. The happy couple selected the anniversary of American In- 
dependance, 1837, for the celebration of their nuptials, and enlisted the services 
of Levi Robey, Esq., then acting as a Justice of the Peace. He tied the knot 
presumably with neatness and despatch, and Mrs. Place yet lives to relate the 
fact. She says there were no jollifications had upon this memorable occasion ; 
that she and her consort continued on the even tenor of their way, and never 
regretted the benediction which made them one. She now lives in the house 
her father built forty-eight years ago, on the road from Nora to McConnell's 
Grove, enjoying a ripe old age and all the comforts to which she was then a 
stranger. On the 24th of the same month James Blair was married to 
Kate Marsh at the residence of James Timms. William Ensign opened a 
school in Mr. Timms' residence the same summer — probably the first school 
taught in the county after it was laid off. On May 24, of this year, Harvey 
M. Timms came to light in his father's cabin, and is generally distinguished as 
the first birth. The first deaths reported were those of Thomas Milburn and a 
man named Reed, who had but recently come into the county, and their tragic 
ending caused feelings of sympathy and gloom to prevail in the neighborhood 
where the accident by which they met their fate occurred. 

It seems that they were employed in cultivating a corn patch a short dis- 
tance west of the present village of Ridott, on the opposite side of the Pecaton- 
ica, which they were accustomed to cross when proceeding to work, by means of 
a " dug out." One morning, in the spring of 1837, the men, accompanied by a 
step-son of Thomas Crain, embarked in their treacherous ferry and shoved out 
into the stream. During the passage the unwieldy barque capsized, precipitat- 
ing the unfortunate trio into the swollen waters. Reed and Milburn were una- 
ble to swim and sank to the bottom, while Wooten, the young man who started 
with them, reached the opposite shore, narrowly escaping the end which attended 
his companions. The survivor hurried to arouse the settlers, who hastened to 
the scene of the accident, and, after dragging the river without results for sev- 
eral hours, finally recovered the bodies. The only hearse procurable was a 
large emigrant wagon, in which, drawn by a yoke of oxen, they were taken to 
the highest and dry est spot near by, a grave dug, and they laid reverently in. 
Hazel brush was placed on. the bodies, and the grave filled up. A few days 
after, one who had assisted at the burial, on going to the grave, found that 
prairie wolves had dug in so far as to bring up a portion of the fustian pants 
in which one of them was dressed. He procured a block of wood, which he 
drove into the opening, after which it remained undisturbed, and is remembered 
as a landmark, visible for a long distance, by travelers on the prairie. 

On the 5th of December, 1837, a contract was concluded between the County 
Commissioners and Thomas J. Turner for the erection of a frame court house 
and a jail of hewn logs. The timbers were gotten out during the winter, under 
the direction of Julius Smith, and the premises in part completed the following 
summer. From 1838 to 1870 the old "justice shop " stood in the square on 
Stephenson street, and served the purpose for which it was erected, without 



246 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

decay. Twice it was struck by lightning, which splintered some of its timbers, 
but in each instance repairs restored its safety and left it without a scar. The 
old building passed through a world of experience in its day, but was finally 
removed to give place to the splendid structure which now ornaments its site. 

An impetus was added to immigration this year, and all the material 
interests of the county prospered, notwithstanding the dark and troublesome 
times which were being experienced in more populated communities, where 
wealth and happiness had given place to actual want, and anticipations yielded 
place to discouraging realities. These were the effects of the panic. 

Indeed, it may be safely said, that in spite of the numerous drawbacks which 
new corporations inevitably encounter, the year 1837, in many respects, yielded 
the first intimations received by settlers that good would come out of Stephen- 
son County in a future not too distant to discourage. A prosperous period it 
was insisted upon was dawning. The farmers closed their year's labors with a 
consciousness that these labors had not been altogether vain, and determined to 
so improve the opportunities offered by the ensuing season that their profits 
should be liberal. To this portion of the community, at least, the prospect was 
cheering. The location of the county seat but confirmed to their minds the 
predictions regarding the future they had ventured. The contracts let for 
public buildings would create a demand for labor, attract emigration, cause 
money te be disbursed, create a larger demand for their products and cheapen 
the price of necessaries. Nor was this all. The county, then devoid of roads, 
would in a short time be supplied, and farmers would be able to market their com- 
modities with some assurance that they could go there and return home without 
exhausting the proceeds of their sales. Nor was this all. The value of lands 
appreciated, and the sales of claims effected, if so desired, at prices which seemed 
extravagant ; mail facilities would be improved, and means of communication 
increased. The accomplishment of these desideratums would do much to dissi- 
pate the feeling of solitude and desire which come upon the most courageous 
for temporary change. 

Freeport began to assume the appearance of a village, and New Pennsylva- 
nia, known as Bobtown, but of late years as McConnell's Grove, had been laid 
out by Dennison and Vanzant. At the former place a number of houses had 
been put up, and considerable trading carried on at the village store of 0. H. 
Wright. Business there was generally concluded while it was light; when 
night spread its wings over the scene, merchant and customer, factor and 
planter, were usually at home, and the "city " was left to darkness and vacancy. 
Amusements were not indulged. The necessity for labor to provide the staff 
of life precluded pleasantries of any but a kind seemingly indigenous to new 
countries — including raisings, quiltings and the like. Schools, with sparse 
attendance and the most ordinary curriculum, had been established in some 
portions of the county, and services were held by traveling preachers whenever 
an opportunity was afforded. Their edifices were frequently " God's first 
temples," and the congregation made up of residents within a circuit of many 
miles from the point of occupation. The Rev. Father McKean, it is believed, 
preached in Freeport, this year, the first sermon by a regularly ordained min- 
ister, in the village, and some say that Judge Stone convened court in 0. H. 
Wright's residence, which was in the rear of his store. When the court house 
was partly finished, it was devoted to religious as well as judicial purposes, its 
occupation being divided between the various sects then seeking converts, on 
the ground, and was so appropriated until the several denominations were 
domiciled in quarters of their own. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 247 

Among the large number who came into this section that year, there were 
some who have left the impress of their labors and characteristics so pronounc- 
edly that they are distinctly remembered after the lapse of nearly half a cen- 
tury. Prominent among these was Dr. Thomas Van Valzah, who came from 
Pennsylvania, the pioneer of a class of people, the "Pennsylvania Dutch," 
who followed in his footsteps, and, purchasing large tracts of land in the 
county, have attained to wealth and importance by their indefatigable industry, 
keen foresight, economy and perseverance. As farmers, speculators making 
investments, heads of corporations, bank presidents, and citizens, they have 
everywhere commanded the public confidence and a decided success. 

Dr. Van Valzah settled on a claim within the present site of the village of 
Cedarville, which he purchased of John Goddard, and at once began the erec- 
tion of a saw and grist mill. These were completed in November, 1837, and 
were the first of the kind put up in the county. The latter was supplied with 
one run of stone and a " chopper." The mill was at first operated by hand- 
power, but within a year of its completion water-power was substituted. The 
establishment has been conducted since, though the old mill building long since 
yielded precedence to a handsome structure, at present owned by Hon. John H. 
Addams. 

During the summer, Nelson Martin opened a school in Freeport, and some 
of his pupils still remember the "deportment " he enforced, more particularly 
that attending their disobedience of an order issued by him prohibiting the 
scholars from testing the supporting qualities of the ice upon the Pecatonica 
when that stream was frozen over in the following winter. 

In other portions of the county an imperfect system of education had been 
introduced, and was attended with beneficial results. In short, this year, as al- 
ready remarked, was a year in which rapid strides were made in the direction 
of an independence that only required time to develop fully. In addition to 
Freeport and McConnell's Grove, there were other settlements which sought the 
felicity of villages. " Irish Grove," in Rock Run Township, and " Dublin," 
in the Township of Erin, were sprouting into significance as the Celtic residents 
of both places made improvements and cultivated the graces of peace, supple- 
mented by a moderate degree of prosperity. Too much cannot be said of the 
Irish residents of Stephenson County. None are dependent, while many of 
them own and cultivate large farms, and all are industrious, law-abiding and 
reputable citizens. A temperance organization exists in Dublin, which enjoys a 
generous membership, and wherever this nationality predominates it exerts an 
influence for good. The sons and daughters are educated to fit them for the 
duties of life. As one of the early settlers of that race stated to the writer, he 
was determined that his children should not be deprived of the advantages that 
were denied him in his youth. Two of the oldest churches in the county were 
built and supported by them, and the religious influence exerted by the congre- 
gations is not surpassed by that of any other organization in the county. 

The arrivals this year included, among others : Joseph Musser, Isaac Dev- 
eley, Thomas and Samuel Chambers, William Wallace, a Mr. Moore, Joseph 
Osborn, Daniel Guyer, Pat Giblin, Miles O'Brien, a man named Corcoran, 
Hiram Hill, John Howe, I. Forbes, John Milburn and — Reed, whose deaths 
by drowning in Pecatonica River are related above, Stewart Reynolds, Sanford 
Niles, John Tharp, Jackson Richart, Saferus Snyder, Joseph Green, Charles 
Macomber, the Rev. Philo Judson, Cornelius Judson, S. F. M. Fretville, Alfred 
Gaylord, the Rev. Asa Ballinger, Phillip and Warner Wells, Henry Johnson, 
Oliver and John R. Brewster, Isaac Kleckner, Ezra Gillett, Joab Morton, James 



248 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

Turnbull, " Father " Ballinger, Hector C. Haight, who became a Mormon, Jacob 
Gable, Valorus Thomas, George W. Babbitt, John Edwards, Levi Lewis, John 
Lewis, Rezin and Levi Wilcoxon, Caleb Tompkins, the Farwell Brothers, the 
Brace family, Garett Lloyd, Harvey and Jeremiah Webster, Sybil Ann Price, 
Samuel F. Dodds, Robert T. Perry, Robert and Wm. Lashell, James and Oliver 
Thompson, Jacob Burbridge, Samuel and Marshall Bailey, Martin Howard, 
John Harmon, a Mr. Graham, Alonzo Fowler, and some few others. Marriages, 
births and deaths were more numerous, owing to this increase in the population, 
there being several of each recorded in the county that year. But there was 
much to mitigate the inconveniences experienced by those who had come two 
years before, whose comfort was augmented by those who came after, and com- 
pensated in a measure for the trials they had been called upon to previously 
endure. 

The old year floated away into the past, leaving behind it pleasant mem- 
ories of hopes realized by a people who had been more than prospered during 
its career. The new year bended above the prostrate form of 1837, cast dead 
flowers over what had passed to nothingness, and, gliding in through the open 
door scattering blossoms in its way, renewed unto the people the pledges 
which had already been recorded, but lay buried in the ashes of years. 

Among those who came in 1837, Maj. John Howe should not be forgotten. 
He had been a member of the New York Legislature, and came West with the 
close of his official term. His influence in Stephenson County was wide-spread, 
and he was regarded as a man of the most brilliant attainments. After filling 
the offices of County Commissioner, County Judge, etc., he emigrated to Wis- 
consin, where he died. His daughter married L. W. Guiteau, long a prominent 
resident of Freeport, where he died during the month of July, 1880. 

With the opening of spring in 1838 the tide of emigration again began to 
flow in slowly, tis true, but of a character, as the sequel proved, the reverse of 
transient ; for those who came, settled, and contributed their efforts toward 
building up the country. Commercial interests increased in Freeport, which 
by this time bore evidences in its buildings and increase in population of possi- 
bilities in the future. The uncertainties born of the financial crisis of the pre- 
ceding year had been dissipated, and were succeeded by a feeling of confidence 
which found expression in investments made not only in the future city but the 
surrounding country, while improvements were projected and completed at a 
number of points. These were the reverse of ornamental as a rule, architect- 
urally speaking, yet they relieved the primitive surroundings of tiresome monot- 
ony and added the spice of variety to scenes otherwise characterized by too 
much sameness. No change was made in municipal or county affairs, and 
schools were sustained by private subscription to the absence of legal assess- 
ments for their support. Religious services continued to be held, and the num- 
ber of worshipers visibly increased. Good order was the rule, though in Free- 
port, which was made the rendezvous of that class of men who direct their steps 
to communities of recent date, the law officers were often compelled to enforce 
the statutes by arrest and confinement in jail. But the innumerable trials to 
which the pioneers were subjected were by this time lessened, and the cases of 
actual suffering more remote. The men were strengthened by the experience 
through which they had passed, and timid women became brave through combats 
with dangers that had been real. The constant struggle for the means to sus- 
tain life had brought with it some incidents of ease and luxury, and it was not 
until many years after, when the distance to market and the cost of transporta- 
tion absorbed the proceeds of the crops, that settlers were reminded of the days 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 249 

that had once been dark. Mills were accessible, and, instead of resorting to 
"gritters" or the improvised pestle and mortar for an unsatisfactory quality of 
meal, or obtaining a modicum thereof for home consumption at the expense of 
a fatiguing journey, meal such as is prized to-day for its purity and health-giv- 
ing properties was easily secured at the Van Valzah, Kirkpatrick and other 
mills that had been completed meanwhile. In the olden time of the settlement 
of Stephenson County, heads of families were obliged to visit the mills at Galena, 
na, Peoria and elsewhere for their grinding. The slow mode of travel by ox 
teams was rendered still more prolonged by the utter absence of roads, bridges 
and ferries. In dry weather these embargoes were sufficiently discouraging, but 
when the rainy season was at its height, or during the breaking up of winter, 
these troubles became dangers. To get mired in a slough was no uncommon 
occurrence, and often a swollen stream would blockade the way, when if the 
traveler was unable to cross, he was obliged to have recourse for his object 
at other points. In dry weather they got along better, but in winter progress 
was next to impossible. The utmost economy of time, too, was necessary, for 
often, when the goal was reached after a week or more of toilsome travel with many 
exposures and risks, and where the applicant was anxious to return to his fam- 
ily with the least possible delay, he was not unfrequently disheartened with the 
information that his turn might come in a week. When his "turn" came he 
must be on hand or miss his " turn, " and, when the anxious soul was ready to 
endure the trials of a trip back, his heart was heavy with the thoughts of how 
affairs had been at home. 

It is interesting to trace the relation between the present condition of the 
county and the first acts of its first settlers. The beauty of the landscape to- 
day, proceeding from the industry of a later generation, has its seminal princi- 
ple in the events of the first years of the county's settlement. The ambition 
that their children should be educated, for which they permitted themselves to 
be assessed, was a fit prelude to the zeal for the adoption of a system that has 
since obtained. The persistence of Father McKean, the Revs. Winslow, Bol- 
linger and others, in maintaining religious services under difficulties, was the 
germ from which have sprung the churches, and promoted public morals and 
order. To these agencies, more than all others combined, is due, not only the 
production of material wealth, but the thrift and refinement for which Ste- 
phenson County and her inhabitants are characterized. 

The difficulties referred to were in a degree banished with the approach 
of 1838 ; their benediction was pronounced with the close of 1837. The 
country was no longer a frontier. Business was an established fact. Farms 
were in a high state of cultivation, and all that would aid in hastening the 
advent of days of prosperity was combined to that end. What a metamor- 
phosis ten years had wrought ! What a contrast between 1827, when Kellogg 
came timorously into the country, and 1838, when that country, freed from 
Indian occupation, was comparatively thickly settled. 

This year elections were held, and the first Assessor, L. 0. Crocker, inducted 
into office. He was a most excellent man, who came into Freeport among the 
first to locate there, and engaged in merchandising. Well fitted to discharge 
the duties of life in whatever position he might be assigned, he was intrusted 
with many important duties and generous enterprises, and found faithful in all. 
He died many years ago, but not until he had witnessed the growth and 
advancement of the city from infancy and penury to age and wealth. 

During the early administrations Of the Assessor, every species of taxable 
personal property was listed. The cradle and the winding-sheet and the 



250 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

coffiin were doubtless excepted, but nearly every other necessity, not to say 
luxury, from a prairie-breaking team to a $12 watch, was made to pay tribute, 
and that, too, as high as the law permitted. The man who carried a time- 
piece of measured value, was compelled to pay 6J cents for the privilege, and 
three of the richest men in the county contributed $2 each to the support of 
the county on the watches they owned. Hubbard Graves was Collector, and 
the total amount paid him in his official capacity footed up $96 and some 
cents, the rate being about 45 cents on each $100 assessed value, which would 
give the assessed value of personal property in the county in 1838, about 
$21,333. 

At the election this year the voters were more numerous than had par- 
ticipated in that held when the county was organized. For example, in Ridott 
Township, the election was held at Daniel Wooton's house, with the host. John 
Hoag and William Everts, Judges ; Horatio Hunt and Harvey Waters, Clerks ; 
who, with D. W. C. Mallory, Philo Hammond, Giles Pierce, Zebulon Dimmick, 
William Barlow, Pat Frame and S. Forbes, constituted the number who were 
entitled to exercise the privileges of the elective franchise. The day there, 
as elsewhere, was made one of rejoicing. At Wooton's house a barrel of 
whisky was provided, and frequent resorts to its contents had a tendency to 
elevate, if not inebriate the company. All maintained a commendable condi- 
tion of sobriety, however, save one, whose capacity to resist the effects was 
disproportioned to his appetite for the beverage. As a consequence, when 
night came, the gentleman was oblivious to passing events, and scarcely able to 
maintain his equilibrium. During the day — an inseparable incident of all 
elections — the rain fell in torrents, and, when it came time to disperse, the route 
home was over shallows and/ull of difficulties, aggravated by the semi-incapacity 
of some to travel, and particularly the merry little gentleman under considera- 
tion. He crossed the river in safety, where a hill, the sides of which had 
attained the consistency of thin mortar by the action of the rain, opposed his 
advance. Like as a war-horse, while cavorting in peaceful solitudes hears the 
strains of marshal music, pricks up his ears and snorts and paws and kindles 
at the sound, so did the intoxicated citizen joy in the knowledge of his powers 
to overcome the difficulty. But he counted without carrying the fractions, for 
a trial was concluded with the subject on his back in the mud, the object of 
merriment to those who witnessed his fall. But he was a man of heroic mold, 
and, like Antseus, renewing his ambition with defeat, he raised up, a most laugh- 
able spectacle, and tried it again. The second attempt was attended with 
similar results, as was the third, until some of his neighbors crossed over to 
where he was and assisted him home, where he was tucked into bed and left 
to sleep oif the effects of his too frequent absorbings. 

It was in 1838 that the first house was built in the present village of Rock 
Grove ; a schoolhouse was put up in Freeport, and Hiram Eads built a hotel in 
the same town, and, on the Fourth of July of that year, invited the entire country 
for miles around to take dinner therein. 

The celebration here indulged in 1838 was the first of the series since 
celebrated in the county. Preparations were made for a proper observance of 
the occasion weeks prior to its arrival. The Rev. F. C. Winslow was quite 
active in perfecting arrangements, as, also, were Benjamin Goddard, Isaac 
Stoneman, 0. H. Wright, Allen Wiley, William Baker, the Truax boys, Abe 
Johnson, and, in fact, the patriotic citizens generally. For days before the 
Fourth, the Rev. Mr. Winslow had a class in training to sing ballads of Revo- 
lutionary memory and a national ode, believed to have been specially composed 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 251 

in honor of the event. This class was composed of Miss Cornelia Russell, now 
Mrs. T. J. Hazlett. and residing^in Freeport, Eliza Hunt, Marion Snow, Mrs. 
Amelia Webb, who subsequently married Hollis Jewell, and others, and it would 
be no exaggerated statement of the case to inform modern choristers that their 
efforts, including the Ode to Columbia, were received with pronounced mani- 
festations of pleasure. Benjamin Goddard's barn was selected as the forum, 
where the Declaration was read with proper emphasis upon each syllabic 
reference to liberty. 0. H. Wright, it is believed, delivered an oration, after 
which, dinner, dancing and the pursuit of happiness as each particular celebrant 
individually inclined. 

The year 1838 is remembered by the settlers of that day in connection 
with the tragedy which occurred in what is now Oneco Township, resulting in 
the suicide of one of the Lott family while laboring under a fit of temporary 
insanity. The cause of this diseased mind could not be ascertained, nor could 
any but the most meager particulars be obtained from presumably reliable 
sources. At all events, according to the drift of these statements, it appears 
that Lott, while invested with one of the constantly-recurring paroxysms 
manifested, left his home unbeknown to any of the family, who were cognizant 
that he had inherited the malady, and maintained a watch upon his movements, 
and, proceeding in the direction of Jonas Strohm's farm, in Section 27, disap- 
peared from view. He had not been gone long before his absence was noted, 
and a general search made for his whereabouts by members of the household, 
assisted by Alonzo Denio and others of the neighbors, who happened to be 
in the vicinity. After some delay, he was overtaken, but not until he had 
hanged himself to a tree, and was almost dead when found. He was cut 
down, it is said, by Alonzo Denio, and every effort made to resuscitate him, 
but without accomplishing the desired object. The spark of life was too feeble 
to be restored by the means improvised or the remedies employed. The scene 
of his immolation is almost in sight of the present home of Duke Chilton, half 
a mile distant from the village of Oneco, and was regarded with curiosity not 
unmingled with superstition for many years after. His tragic taking-off caused 
a feeling of gloom to pervade the vicinity, from the effects of which recovery 
was not immediate. 

The first marriage ceremony by a minister of the gospel was celebrated 
early in February of this year, the happy pair submitting their affections for 
community purposes being Thomas Chambers and Rebecca Moore. The Rev. 
James McKean, better known as "Father McKean," officiated, and pronounced 
them man and wife at John Moore's cabin, in Rock Grove, on property now 
owned by Levi Kiester. The cabin was but twenty feet square, yet in these 
contracted limits not less than forty guests were gathered as witnesses. The 
event was considered as of distinguished importance, and was attended by resi- 
dents in the county whose homes were some of them at a distance of eighteen 
miles from the scene of festivities. At the close of the services, cake, wine and 
music were dispensed with, and the couple settled down to the realities of life 
without any of the memories that chaperone brides of to-day when they launch 
their barques on the tempestuous waves of matrimony, hoping to float with the 
tide and escape all hidden obstructions. 

These are some of the incidents of the times, but, while they were occur- 
ring, labor was not suspended by the architects who were engaged in those days 
laying the foundation for that magnificent superstructure which was to rise 
therefrom. The sublime promise ventured by its prophetic infancy was being 
gloriously realized unto Stephenson County, as day succeeded day, and months 



252 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

cycled into years. The hours of travail and despondency in which that infancy 
was passed were gone — glimmering phantoms, school-boy dreams — to yield 
place to days of rejoicings, when hope's most generous fruitions were fully 
realized to the confidences that had been reposed. 

But improvements were not entirely confined to Freeport, as would be 
naturally imagined, though that municipality was particularly favored in this 
respect. The court house was in progress of completion there, the company of 
Kirkpatrick, Galbraith & Co., had been nearly constantly occupied in putting 
up buildings or providing for future operations. Benjamin Goddard was occu- 
pying the position of Boniface at the Mansion House, erected by himself. 
There were three stores in the town, to which an addition was made in the fall 
of 1838 by L. W. Guiteau, etc., etc. The country tributary was proportion- 
ately fortunate, and as proportionately benefited. The area of cultivation was 
increased and its quality improved by the introduction of valuable aids. 
While the labor of preparing and laying by the crop was thereby diminished, 
plans were incubating that should revolutionize the machinery employed at 
harvest, and found expression a year later, when a four-horse threshing machine 
was first used in the county. 

Hamlets came into being, and towns, which had been heretofore laid out 
were platted and divided up into lots. Ransomburg, the first of the list which 
became flourishing cities in imagination, but finally sank into oblivion, was 
approaching that period of decay when its lease of life could be extended no 
further. A half-dozen residences, Way's school, Stewart's and Ransom's stores, 
and probably a blacksmith shop, made up the aggregate of improvements, and 
less than half a score of inhabitants were enumerated in the bills of mortality. 
But its decay and final dismemberment, and the ultimate reduction of its site 
to agricultural purposes, produced no effect upon the army of enterprising men 
who had settled in the county, and were ambitious of distinction as the found- 
ers of towns. If anything, hope was stimulated and lived upon the almost 
certain results of the future. Robert McConnell, who drove a herd of cattle 
into the county about this time, purchased the title of Dennison & Vanzant 
to the town laid out by them in Waddams, which he named " McConnell's 
Grove," erected a store for trading purposes, and as a means of attracting 
settlers, which he stocked with goods purchased at Galena and hauled them to 
their final destination, over hills and sloughs, and remained in charge until the 
hopes he had nursed for days to come had become resolved into disappoint- 
ments. 

Immigration in 1838 was, as it should be, greater than ever before. The 
flattering inducements held out for honest toil were not passed by unavailed of. 
The men who composed the incomers were, as those who came in before them, 
bred to the business of farming in the quiet old homes of New England, and the 
precedent established by Dr. Van Valzah encouraged a liberal quota of citizens 
of Pennsylvania to come hither. In addition, the number of foreigners was 
visibly increased, and what is claimed as the first Catholic Church in the county 
was that year erected in Irish Grove, though this is disputed by the commu- 
nicants of the Catholic Church in Dublin. But those were days of romance in 
church affairs, and a decision of the truth in the premises is remitted to the dis- 
putants. 

The political views of the people then were not as pronounced or generally 
expressed as in later years. Indeed, politics and political manipulations did 
not concern them to any but a very limited extent. Among the pioneers of any 
new country, there will always be found a class of political adventurers who 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 253 

seek in new fields the life of ease and accumulation of property they were un- 
able to secure in commonwealths established and indebted to the efforts of others 
for their independence, and there were no great political questions which, up to 
this time, divided the people. Politics was consequently more personal, 
and suffrage was bestowed more as a favor than to promote the public weal. 
The candidates represented the Whig and Locofoco parties, and, though the 
people almost to a man voted, it was not until 1837, when the murder of Eli- 
jah P. Lovejoy, at Alton, created the first impressions of the antagonism that 
were felt. This feeling grew apace with advancing time, and, though the democ- 
racy were often triumphant, and the party contained some of its ablest repre- 
sentatives from Stephenson County, an expression of the general opinion was 
delayed until the repeal of the Wilmot Proviso and the dissolution of the Whig 
party gave birth to the Republican party, which has obtained in Illinois for 
nearly a quarter of a century. But at the time we speak, politics was a most 
insignificant factor in the daily walks of life, and in 1838, at least, bore no ap- 
pearance to what it is to-day. 

The arrivals that year included Robert Sisson, H. G. Davis, John 
Walsh, John and Thomas Warren. Isaac Scott, Samuel Liebshitz, Christian 
Strockey, with two sons, Chauncey Stebbins. F. Rosenstiel, P. L. Wright, 
William Preston, Louis Preston, Matthew Bredendall (Thomas Carter, Isaac 
Rand, Samuel Bogenruff, L. L. Pitcher, a man named Lathrop and some 
others settled about this time in Kent), Lewis Gitchell, David Gitchell, Philo 
Hammond, Ezekiel and Jacob Forsythe, John Lloyd, Putnam Perley, Ezekiel 
Brown, John Brazee, Christian Clay, J. D. Fowler, James McGhu, Adrian 
Lucas, Newcomb Kinney, Charles A. Gore, Hiram Gaylord, Cornelius and 
Jonathan Cowan, Alexander Allen, John Bradford, Thomas Loring, Columbus 
and Ichabod Thompson, Elias and Edward Hunt, and some others, doubtless, 
but lack of memory prevented the securing of their names. 

Taken for its all in all, the year 1838, was one of success for Stephenson 
County, paving the way for the important events which followed in the years 
that succeeded. 

The season of 1839 was, in very many respects, regarding settlements and 
improvements, a duplicate of 1838. The machinery of government moved noise- 
lessly and effectively, and among the improvements put up was a building on Luman 
Montague's farm, in West Point Township, to be devoted exclusively to school 
purposes, the first of the kind appropriated to that object in the county. The 
building was long since torn down, but the site is there, visible to the passer-by 
from Nora to Bobtown, on the farm now owned by H. C. Montague. The 
court house had been made ready for use, and the log jail, when necessary, 
was guarded by citizens, the same not having been sufficiently completed at 
this time to safely house prisoners. At one time this calaboose was filled with 
prisoners, received the addition of a man arrested for horse-stealing in 
Winnebago, and bringing his stolen property to Freeport. He was ar- 
raigned and called upon to plead, when his counsel moved to quash the 
indictment and discharge his client. The motion was demurred to, but with- 
out avail, as the document was defective, and no other course was left to 
the Judge but direct the issue of an order providing for the prisoner's 
release. At this critical juncture his Honor adjourned court without tak- 
ing action in the case, and a young man hastened to Rockford for the pur- 
pose of procuring a warrant for his return thither. Arriving at Rock- 
ford about midnight, he forded the river for the purpose of finding a Justice 
of the Peace, but just as he came out of the water he was met by a vigilance 



254 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

committee on the look out for horse-thieves, and narrowly escaped the punish" 
ment usually administered to one of that gentry. He was able to convince 
them of his identity in time to avoid the impending penalty, and, hurrying to 
the residence of a Justice, procured the document he was after. With this 
he returned to Freeport, in time for the opening of court in the morning, 
when the defective indictment was quashed and the prisoner discharged, but at 
once re-arrested and taken to Rockford, where he was tried, with the usual 
results. 

It might be here observed that horse-thieves and rattlesnakes were among 
the most dangerous foes settlers had to contend with. The former were cunning 
in attack ; the latter fatal. Horse-thieves might be prevented from operating, 
but the bite of the rattlesnake was instant death in comparison. Every effort 
was made to kill off both, but without much satisfaction until the country 
became more generally settled, and the land-owners were, by associations and 
mutual-aid organizations, enabled to control one of these classes of cormorants. 
The horse- thieves infested every part of the country that promised returns, 
and counties bordering on the northern line of the State were particularly 
annoyed. The gang carried on their felonies so deftly that it was difficult to 
catch them in the act, and by the time discovery was made they were too far in 
the lead to induce pursuit. If, however, they were pursued, it was rare to over- 
take them, or, if captured, it was after they had disposed of the booty to an 
accomplice, who pushed across the Mississippi and sold him to a purchaser in 
the mines or one about to visit the interior. 

A pair of these scoundrels visited the farm of Conrad Van Brocklin, in 
the town of Florence, upon one occasion, and came remarkably near getting 
away with a pair of fine blooded horses Mr. V. B. greatly prized. It was 
during the afternoon, and the horses were quietly feeding in the pasture. Sud- 
denly Mr. V. B.'s attention was attracted to the efforts of the thieves, and, 
comprehending the situation, he started to prevent them from executing their 
designs. But they succeeded in eluding his pursuit for the time being, and, 
procuring the assistance of Mason Dimmick, Van Brocklin started in their 
wake. The villains, however, had gotten considerably in advance, and but for 
one circumstance would easily have escaped. One of the horses had a peculiar 
dread of crossing a stream of water, and could not be made to enter a stream. 
The thieves had no bridles for the horses, and this rendered their escape the 
more difficult. At the first stream, the stolen steeds came to a dead halt, and 
no amount of persuasion or severity could influence them to budge. When 
Van Brocklin and Dimmick came in sight, both horses were abandoned, and 
the scoundrels sought security in the fastnesses of the swamp. In the mean 
time it began to grow dark, and both escaped. 

Samuel Smith, of Lancaster, was depredated upon in this manner, and 
never recovered his stock, as they were transported to the Mississippi and were 
never more heard of. These are individual cases, and fairly illustrate the actual 
state of affairs existing at the time. 

The moccasin and American rattlesnake were found in every part of the 
county — in the fields, the woods, barns, etc., even taking refuge in sheaves of 
grain. Their bite was fatal, though remedies abounded, which, if taken in 
time, occasionally postponed the coming of the Man on the Pale Horse ; but 
if they were neglected a brief time, the victim was condemned. One day a 
settler in Rock Run started off fishing, accompanied by a neighbor and mem- 
bers of his family. While perambulating the banks of the Pecatonica, one of 
the lads, as he thought, stubbed his toe, and uttering cries of pain, his father 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 255 

hurried to examine the extent of his injuries. He saw, at a glance, that the 
boy had been stung by a " racer," and, returning home as rapidly as possible, 
summoned a physician in the vain hope that immediate treatment would coun- 
teract the effects of the poison before his system became impregnated with it. 
But efforts were useless ; the life of the lad set with the sun. 

On another occasion, an Irishman was plowing in a field near Rock City, 
and while so occupied was bitten in the calf of his leg. At a distance from 
medical supplies, and realizing the danger encountered by delay, he whipped 
out his knife, and, cutting a piece out of that portion of his limb affected, 
continued his labors, and lived many years after without experiencing any 
serious effects from his collision with the reptile. 

These instances will index some of the many dangers that crossed the path- 
way of early settlers, and left their several marks. To-day, snakes and horse- 
thieves have become dead issues. At times they indicate their presence, but are 
speedily suppressed without loss or injury. 

In the spring of this year, a Norwegian colony came from across the sea. 
and, landing in America, pursued their journey to Illinois, settling in Rock 
Run Township, of Stephenson County, the first representatives of that 
nationality who came to the United States to remain. Some months before, an 
agent of these people visited the States and making a general canvass of the ad- 
vantages offered in the South and West, returned, after deciding upon the 
section subsequently occupied. A portion were husbandmen, and at once took 
up claims ; a few were mechanics, and worked at their respective trades. All 
were industrious, thrifty, economical, and soon conquered a competency, which 
descended to their children, who, in professional, mechanical and agricultural 
lines of life, have not only done well, but deserved confidence. 

The character of the men who became identified with the county in 1839, 
was in keeping with that of the best who seek the extended field of operations 
afforded by a new country, where they can, by the exercise of diligence, 
industry and careful management, control their own destiny more acceptably 
than in regions which are already established, and revere the memory of men 
who are afterward regarded as the marks and models of the times in which 
they lived. 

Such a man was D. A. Knowlton, Sr., who settled in Freeport at this 
period. From small beginnings he amassed wealth and became an influential 
man, not alone in the county and State, but in the Northwest. The following 
story, indexing the quality of customers he occasionally had to deal with while 
engaged in merchandising, he related himself at the Old Settlers' meeting, which 
convened at Cedarville, in August, 1875 : 

"You know, " he began, " that I was always called a sharp collector. One 
day, a man by the name of Charley Hall came into my store with an order for 
goods, but he wanted more goods than the order called for. I said, ' Charley, 
I cannot trust you; and "no" is a word I can always say in business matters. ' 
'But,' pleaded Hall, 'let me have them, Mr. Knowlton, and I will pay you 
next week. ' I then made the following bargain with him : 'If you do not pay 
me the balance as per agreement, I shall have the privilege of kicking you 
every time I see you until the debt is paid.' For several weeks the countenance 
of Hall did not grace my store ; but after a while he appeared, and, walking into 
my store, I said : ' Charles, I would like to see you a moment outside, ' and 
when out I gave him a very violent kick. Hall turned around and said. 
' Knowlton, what's that for ?' ' According to agreement, ' says I. The sequel 
to the case was that Charley a few days afterward brought a load of corn to me 



256 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

in payment of the debt, which I received and placed to his credit. I afterward 
learned that he was trusted for the corn by the farmer, in order to avoid any 
further indorsements of my contract. It is unnecessary to add that the farmer 
was never paid for the corn. He endeavored to wash two hands with one, and 
washed the farmer's. " 

Mr. Knowlton, during the latter years of his life, was the head of a banking 
house in Freeport, which, since his death, has been conducted by his sons. 

On the 29th of August, 1839. affairs had become settled, and the machinery 
of government in the county to operate without friction or jar. Among other 
evidences of civilization and the desire to emulate the example set by older 
places, was the convening of the Circuit Court for the disposition of routine 
and litigious business. But this latter, beyond actions instituted on behalf of 
the people, was confined to making orders relating to appeals from sub- 
ordinate courts. 

On the date above indicated, the first session of the Circuit Court of 
Stephenson County was commenced, the Hon. Daniel Stone, Justice of the 
Sixth Judicial District, presiding; Hubbard Graves, Sheriff; John A. Clark, 
Clerk. The bar was occupied with attorneys from distant points, there being 
none of the profession at that time resident in the county, and none came until 
the Hon. George Purinton arrived, on the last day of the old year 1839. The 
lawyers in attendance were mostly from Galena, and included Mr. Hoag, 
Thompson Campbell, probably E. B. Washburne, with one or two others, who 
traveled the circuit, making but a precarious livelihood, but establishing a 
practice which, in after years, was more than remunerative. 

At the same term of court, John C. Robey and William H. Hollenbeck 
appeared in open court to be qualified, and their appointment as deputies were 
duly entered upon the Court Records. Previous to this a Grand Jury was 
impaneled, consisting of John Howe, Luther F. Hall, Samuel F. Dodds, Levi 
Wilcoxon, Joseph Lobdell, Pells Manny, A. B. Watson, Mason Dimmick, 
Levi R. Hull, Robert Barber, Newcomb Kinney, Jonathan Corey, Phillip 
Fowler, Thomas Crain, Loring Snow, Eldridge Farwell, Giles Pierce, D. W. 
C. Mallory, Job S. Watson, J. K. Blackamore, Thompson Wilcoxon, Edward 
Marsh, and Alpheus Goddard. 

The petit jury was composed of Frederick D. Bulkley, John Goddard, 
John Vanepps, Rodney Montague, Mason Dimmick, J. H. Barber, James 
Hart, Bartholomew Fletcher, Samuel Nelson, James Canfil, Thomas Early, 
and Joseph Green. 

The first case submitted for adjudication was that of Asa B. Ames vs. 
Jacob Stroder, on appeal ; but as the appeal had been taken before Stephenson 
County was judicially organized, an order dismissing the same was entered, and 
plaintiff mulcted in costs. 

On the 27th of August, John O'Connor and Jackson Bushkirk were in- 
dicted for the crime yet prevalent, horse stealing, and, being unable to fee coun- 
sel, Thompson Campbell, assisted by John C. Kimball, was appointed by the 
court to conduct their defense. But a change of venue was taken by the ac- 
cused to Jo Daviess County, and the readers are denied the privilege of infor- 
mation as to what measure of punishment was awarded them. 

Other cases were called at this session, and more satisfactorily disposed of, 
among which was the case of the State vs Robert Compton et al., for riot ; also 
against Hiram Walker, for horse stealing. The defendants in both cases were 
convicted, and Walker was sentenced to the penitentiary for four years. He 
was escorted to Alton and served out his term. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 257 

The court adjourned on the same day it was convened, until the next court 
in course. On April 7 and September 7, 1840, it sat again in Freeport with 
the same Judge and officers, remaining in session two days during April and 
three days in September, after which the court was abolished. 

It might here be observed, speaking retrospectively, that settlements made 
in the county as late as 1839 were exclusively confined to timber belts, the 
settlers using prairies, which were beautiful beyond description, for pastures 
and ranges for cattle. They were almost universally of the opinion that these 
broad plains would never be cultivated, but be used almost exclusively for the 
purposes to which at this time they were devoted. When a change came over 
the spirit of their drean s, and compelled the conclusion that the prairie was a 
natural garden, which only required " breaking " and harrowing to " blossom like 
the rose," farmers had recourse to them for cultivation, and a repetition of 
hardships, though of a different character from those described in an earlier 
portion of this narrative was remarked. The sod of the prairie was exceed- 
ingly tenacious and hard to break up the first time, testing the capacity of the 
cattle employed for that purpose not more than the patience and endurance of 
the farmer. The usual method was with a breaking plow, provided with a 
wheel in front and a lever to gauge the depth of the furrow, so that the cumber- 
some contrivance needed no guiding hand to control its direction. To this five 
or six yoke of oxen were hooked, and, urged on by the gad, completed consider- 
able work during the day. The plow generally cut a furrow from twenty to 
twenty-two inches in width by from three to five inches in depth through the 
wiry roots of grass, and turned it over like a long black ribbon, without a break 
for rods, unless the "shear " was thrown out by striking a root. This rarely 
happened, for the blade of the plow-shear was kept sharp by grinding and 
re-filing at the end of nearly every row. When the " breaking " up was concluded, 
the soil was harrowed until it became mellow, when it was ready for cultivation 
and planting. These fields have grown into unfailing springs of wealth, owing 
to the close observance of their needs by the farmers, their constant application 
of systems of cultivation, and the employment of other means essential to their 
development and liberal yield. 

The year 1839 concluded the decade in which the settlement of Stephenson 
County was accomplished, and its woods and broad prairies transformed into 
acres of productive land. The wigwam of the Indian had been exchanged for 
the rude cabin of the settler, and that, in the brief space of time recorded, for 
the more comfortable and commodious farmhouse. Acres had been put to seed, 
forests cut down, roads laid out, and towns built supplied with every auxilary that 
in the times whereof mention is made, could aid to render life endurable. From 
arbitration and the decision of disputed points by agencies, recognized as extra- 
judicial, courts had been established to which appeal was had. Schools had 
succeeded the primitive methods adopted for an equally primitive education, 
and in the minor affairs of the day a change had been wrought as wonderful as 
it was complete. 

The settlers who came in during the year 1839, were : Joseph R. Berry, 
W. P. Cox, A. A. Mallory, Lewis Gibler, William Van Matre, Joseph Van 
Matre, Jr., Henry Corwith, Allen Curry, Sylvester Langdon, Thompson 
Cockerell, Charles H. Babcock, George H. Watson, William B. Hawkins, Ross 
and Anson Babcock, John Karcher, Lewis Woodruff, Solomon and Jacob 
Fisher, a man from the lead mines by the name of Drummond, Peter D., 
George and John Fisher, Calvin Preston, J. S. Patten, John Kleckner, Conrad 
Epley, Edward Pratt, M. Flower, M. Smith, Uriah Boy den, Thomas Bree,. 



258 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

Martin Muller, Patrick Flynn, Patrick Flynn second, Michael Flynn, Thomas 
Hawley, William Marlowe, probably Benson McElheney, Henry and Jacob 
Bordner, John Brown, Robin McGee, James McKee, Samuel Templeton, John 
Price, Peter Fair, Daniel Zimmerman, Robert Price, Jacob Hoebel, A. Gund, 
Valentine Stoskopf, Jacob Shoup, Jacob Bardell, D. E. Pattee, " Jock " 
Pattee, M. L. Howard, a man named Judkins, who settled in Silver Creek, 
0. Stabeck, Ole Anderson, Canute Canutson, Covert Oleson, Ole Covertson, 
and a noble army of enterprising martyrs, whose names and records have been 
forgotten in the whirl of events. 

In 1840, the population of Stephenson County was quoted at 2,800, of 
which 49, resided within the corporate limits of Freeport. The county contained 
ten schools, with an aggregate number of 170 scholars ; five grist and nine saw- 
mills ; five professional residents and other agencies of progress, religious, edu- 
cational and material, though there was no church and it was not until nine 
years later that a house especially devoted to the service of God was erected 
in the city. 

In all the departments of life, however, with but one exception, a healthy 
feeling was to be observed. The county was measurably improved by the open- 
ing and cultivation of farms, and Freeport was to enter upon a prosperous period, 
during which it would become a formidable rival of similar organizations in the 
State. Permanent buildings of architectural excellence were to grace the 
streets. Schools, churches, academies and other aids to the development and 
accretion of wealth were to lend their presence, and flattering prospects attend 
the efforts improvised in these connections. The stream of population would 
continue to flow in a resistless tide into this favored land, and business, to use a 
Westernism, would be " booming " before the decade had run its course. 

There were some who might have thought that it would be difficult to 
carry out these schemes, and were inclined to assert they were Utopian — to 
express astonishment that men, presumably so wise in worldly matters, should 
have attempted to combine so many projects. But they were not heeded when 
they gave expression to the reflections of their prophetic souls, and uttered 
prophecies of Cassandra import. The men who had undertaken the execution of 
these designs possessed unceasing, restless activity, unbounded curiosity, a craving 
for new knowledge, ever incubating plans that should develop into startling and 
original results from their stores of experience and observation, with patience, 
industry and power of endless labor were the marks of that beauty of the mind 
which many inherited, and to which the name of genius is given. These were 
the indexes, when judged by the standard of modern times, which marked dar- 
ing reformers, as they were. They were victorious over hardships, yet the 
victories won were only means to an end, the perfect conservation of all forces 
so completely that the highest order of progress would be brought forth, gather 
strength and mold the character of the people. The travels of Herodotus, 
the expedition of Xenophon through Asia Minor, the conquests of Alexander, 
and the discoveries of Columbus opened up Asia, Egypt and America not more 
freely than did the master minds and muscular brawn of the early settlers open 
up the wealth and resources of the Northwest. 

Morally, the towns and surrounding country were in a reasonably satis- 
factory condition. The lawlessness and violence peculiar to other sections 
were nowhere visible, or, if at any time previous pronounced, had been softened 
through the benign influences that had been exerted in later days. Courts in 
1839, irregular and "new to the business," became regular in their sittings 
and dignified and expeditious in the dispatch of business. The laws were more 




(DECEASED.) 

FR E EPO RT 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 261 

rigidly enforced, and penalties more unflinchingly imposed. Outlaws and 
bandits, however, occasionally indicated their presence at intervals, and sought 
to disturb the law and order which prevailed, by the assumption of prerogatives 
in harmony with their inclinations and characters. This class was, as a rule 
composed of adventurers and gamblers, who, with horse-thieves and vagrants 
generally, had been run out of the lead mines, and, halting long enough at a 
safe distance from the scene of banishment, endeavored to defy opposition to 
their practices, but failed ignominiously, and received the extreme penalty of 
the law as a testimony against them. 

From 1840 until 1846, indeed up to the building of railroads, the growth 
of the county, as compared with earlier years, was slow. Other portions of the 
West were sought by settlers, particularly the lead mines, and received accessions 
more rapidly. One cause of this was the absence of markets. The population 
was engaged almost exclusively in agriculture, and after farms were opened 
there was but a moderate sale of their products for this reason. Settlers have 
been known to take a load of pork to Mineral Point, where it was disposed of 
with difficulty at $1.25 per hundred weight, and occasional shipments of grain 
were made down the Mississippi from Savannah, which practice continued up 
to the very period, when railroads were operated in the country. These flat- 
boats were laden with produce and floated down the river to New Orleans, unless 
a market was found en route, and disposed of. The cargo being disposed of, the 
flat was sold for the lumber it contained, when the merchant who had shipped 
the venture, together with his supercargo or clerk and laborers, beo-an his 
wearisome journey homeward. A partial market was found in the lead region, 
but as productions increased that market became overstocked, and prices 
decreased so that the transportation of commodities thither could not be made to 
pay. The same can be said of the Chicago market, though for a different 
reason — the distance. Chicago was at that early day beginning to be an 
important factor in the building up of the West. It was the point at which 
settlers procured their final outfits, and the market to which farmers transported 
their grain for sale. The means of conveyance was a lumber wagon drawn by 
four or five yoke of oxen, the driver pasturing his cattle at night by the 
wayside, himself camping out and cooking his meals. If he succeeded in 
progressing over horrible roads, or surviving the crossing of seemingly impassable 
sloughs and reaching his long journey's end, he was extremely fortunate. Not 
more so, however, if he was able to find a customer to whom a sale of the grain 
could be effected at 50 cents per bushel. Whenever he was able to control 
their patronage, he returned with a load of merchandise for the merchants of 
Freeport, for which he received a nominal consideration of store goods. 
Occasionally he found a family of emigrants, who, having reached Chicago by 
way of the lake, were waiting for the means of conveyance to continue then- 
trip. In such cases the household goods of this -'lucky find," together with 
the emigrant and his wife and little ones, were laden on the wagon for the 
return trip. Such a cargo was a bonanza to the teamster, for passage was 
invariably cash. With such difficulties to encounter, and the low prices paid 
for commodities, together with the extravagant charge made for many of the 
necessaries of life, it is not surprising that wealth was not rapidly amassed. 
As a compensation for these disadvantages, land was cheap. The broad prairies, 
which proved to be the finest farming land in the State, were held at a price 
within reach of the most impecunious. The suggestion is frequently made to 
some who came at an early day and are yet comparatively the reverse of 
independent, as to the reason why they failed to invest and wait for a rise ; 



262 • HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

Why it was that they were not possessed of the colossal fortune which might 
now have been theirs had they but invested their moderate resources in land. 
The answer to both these interrogatives invariably has been that they came here 
in search of moderate resources and didn't bring it with them. 

Among those who came subsequent to 1839, not including those who 
settled in Freeport, there were : John, Reuben, Levi, Adam and Michael 
Bolander, George and Jacob Maurer, VV. P. Naramore, Joseph Barber, Andrew 
Hinds, D. A. Baldwin, Captain Knese, Thomas and Adam Wilson, Christian 
Bennett, John Flynn, the Babb family, Mathias Ditzler, George House, John 
Lamb, Warren and Anson Andrews, Horace Post, Truman Lovdell, William 
Barkalow, Thomas Foster, Joseph Rush, Samuel Shiveley, Henry Loyer, 
Reuben Tower, William Schermerhorne, Frederick Gossmann, John Hammond, 
Nathan Ferry, Charles W. and Robert Barber, Frank Maginnis, Benjamin 
Illingworth, J. B. Clingman, George and Philip Reitzell, Henry Wohlford r 

John Frybarger, Richard Parriott, Jr., Franklin Scott, George Ilgen, Eddy, 

Cyrus Woodman, Isaac Miller, Lyman, William and Nelson Hulburt, John 
Clarke, Joseph Norris, Seth Schockley, Henry Rybolt, with numberless- 
others. 

MORMON MEDDLINGS. 

In the spring of this year the Mormons, or Latter-Day Saints, a religious 
sect with which the world has since become familiar, made their advent for the 
first time into the State of Illinois. The representatives of the doctrines taught 
by Joseph and Hyrum Smith had been guilty of crimes in Missouri of a charac- 
er different from that included in the polygamous tenets expounded from their 
pulpits, in consequence of which the indignation of the warlike Missourians had 
been excited to a degree that compelled their leaders to flee to Illinois, where 
they took refuge in Hancock County and commenced the building of Nauvoo. 
The accounts furnished by the saints of the cruel treatment they received at the 
hands of their enemies excited feelings of sympathy for what was then thought 
to be a Christian body of men and women, suffering in the cause of religion. 
This sympathy found expression in various ways ; among others, by the pass- 
age of a bill providing for the incorporation of the city of Nauvoo and confer- 
ring extraordinary powers upon its municipal officers, including the military and 
constabulary. 

Thus protected, the Mormons began in Illinois a career of missionary work 
which has attracted thousands to their fold at the sacrifice of every sentiment of 
self-respect and the regard of all mankind. The emissaries of the sect were dis- 
tributed throughout Illinois and States contiguous thereto, with results that 
were made apparent by the annual increase of population in Nauvoo. The 
proselytes were by no means the ignorant classes represented as the converted 
of late years, but educated, reasoning men, with their families. The meetings, 
it is said, held in Stephenson County, were quite respectable, but conversion was 
accomplished by means entirely dissimilar to those adopted by other denomina- 
tions. There was little public speaking, the missionaries having recourse to- 
private interviews and personal solicitation to accomplish their miracles. The 
result of their labors was not, if report in that behalf is predicated upon fact, pro- 
portioned to the means used or the diligence and energy exercised. The saints 
were thick as lice in Egypt, according to report, but were unable to perform 
miracles as was Moses, and departed from Stephenson County, wise in their expe- 
rience, but. impoverished as to results. True, there were some who accompanied 
them, notably Hector C. Haight, of Jefferson Township, and a settler named 
Shumway, residing in the northern part of the county. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 263 

Both Haight and his wife became charmed with the teachings of Joe 
Smith's agents, if the sermons of this religion can possess any charm for a 
man above mediocrity, as Haight is represented to have been, and disposing of 
his possessions in Jefferson, he with his family crossed the Mississippi and made 
one of the number of martyrs, who, a few years after, suffered all the pangs of 
the inquisition in their weary pilgrimage across the plains to Salt Lake. For 
years nothing Avas heard of him, and the pioneer settler in Jefferson Township 
was forgotten in the hurry of life at home. But after a season, reports came 
of his success, which, upon being investigated, were found to be far more than 
the baseless fabric of a vision. He had prospered in temporal affairs, and 
spiritually he was above the vainglory of this world. He was one of Young's 
trusted advisers by the "Salt Lake's sad waves," and his wife had become a 
leading spirit in the revivals and meetings held in Zion. Both had increased 
the number of " sealings " to be found in Brigham's domain, but not without 
money or price. A short time back they re-visited the locality of their early 
residence in Stephenson County, upon which occasion they expressed an unal- 
terable and abiding faith in the religion they embraced, and, though it is said 
they pictured the lives led by the elect of Salt Lake citizens in glowing colors, 

none were influenced thereby or persuaded to return with them. 

******** 

In the history of Haight's apostasy to the cause of morality and good 
government, the writer had forgotten Shumway and his less prominent com- 
panions. Well, so much the better. He was never heard of, however, after 
being " led astray " by Latter-Day Saints. 

In this year the town of Oneco, in Oneco Township, was laid out under 
the direction of John K. Brewster, and Orangeville, within sight of Oneco, was 
also surveyed about this period by John M. Curtis, though its platting and 
building up were delayed until 1846, when John Bowers came in and estab- 
lished the place. 

But it was to Oneco that the sanguine hopes of Mr. Brewster, Mr. Corwith 
and others, were turned in lively anticipation of what that town would become. 
These hopes, as is known by the world and the flesh resident in Stephenson 
County, were doomed to disappointment. The eligible site was never improved 
to its utmost capacity, and the water privileges that it was thought would 
become unexhaustible and invaluable, were never availed of. A church, 
schoolhouse, post office, one or two stores, and other indications of life, survive 
the flight of time, and the proud man's contumely, to illustrate to a later gener- 
ation the beginnings of what might have been. 

Before the year 1840 had run the race set before it, the county was com- 
mencing to show good results of the years of labor that had been expended upon 
its improvement, and it promised, upon its advent into the fourth year of its 
existence, to do more than had been done during the years that had rolled into 
the past. "Let there be light," was the first word of the Creative Power, and 
"Let there be light" must remain the motto of every future development. 
The year was remarkable for many improvements, and an increase in the num- 
ber of farms that were occupied and cultivated. Very little can be said con- 
cerning the emigration hither, for, beyond the fact that some come in, its meas- 
ure was not in any ratio with what it should have been. This was due to the 
causes cited, more than the absence of large numbers who were only waiting 
for the sign that was to move them to change their several camps. The popu- 
lation was increased very slightly, as will be inferred, and did not, during the 
entire year, receive accessions of more than two hundred to the number already 



264 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

there. The post office, which was established at Freeport a year before, was 
not an unfruitful source of comfort and convenience to citizens throughout the 
county, as they were by its means enabled to communicate with their friends 
more frequently than when Thomas Craine was accustomed to carry the mail 
once or twice a month to Freeport. A stage line had been in operation for some 
time at this period, and the inspirations of delight that were felt when the 
bugle was sounded, need but to be referred to to be recalled. The notes 
brought back a consciousness that its auditors were not altogether beyond the 
pale of civilization ; that a trip of two days and two nights, and the expend- 
iture of a round sum of money, would carry one to the heart of the city, 
where he might be brought directly in communication with scenes and incidents 
to which he had been theretofore a stranger. And no doubt there will be many 
who read these lines to echo their truth and be carried back to days when they 
made their first trip to Chicago, arriving in the city and stopping at the old 
frame tavern on Lake street, near the river, as the day was declining into 
evening. 

The fact that there was no material increase in the population during 
1840 would argue the conclusion that there were, comparatively, no improve- 
ments. This was generally the case outside of towns, but not altogether so in 
Freeport, and other less pretentious but more ambitious bailiwicks. Freeport 
then had about sixty houses, divided into stores, saloons and residences, the 
major part being, of course, devoted to the latter purpose, with a population, 
within the present city limits, of about fifty families. With this meas- 
ured showing, the town aped the manners of a city. Saloons were maintained, 
and gambling was indulged without limit. John Barleycorn reigned in those 
days more generally in proportion to the number of the inhabitants, than he 
does now, while the Tiger of Pharaoh was a beast that roamed abroad freely, 
and, though no one was ever known to fear him, there were many who retired 
wounded after encounters with his strength and skill. 

Secret societies and granges had not at this time become objects either of 
curiosity or interest to the people, and the square and level were as yet in the 
unborn future. Temperance societies, were in existence, though, and had been 
for two years. Not that there was a vital necessity for their existence, for the 
early settlers were not topers. But they came into being as the settlers came 
into the county, doubtless, for the enjoyment of life, liberty and pursuit of hap- 
piness, in which trinity of objects they were aided by patrons and admirers. 
Along in 1838, L. W. Guiteau made a pilgrimage to the present town of 
Cedarville, where he was to deliver a temperance address, at the invitation of 
A. Goddard and others. At the time appointed, a snow storm was prevail- 
ing, and, though Mr. Guiteau disliked to go there, he went, and was confronted 
by an audience of fifteen or twenty, to whom he spoke with reference to the 
advantages to be derived from a practical application of the doctrine of total 
abstinence. This was the first speech ever delivered in the county on the sub- 
ject, but the work of reform begun upon that night, amid the storm and sur- 
rounded by many, very many, discouraging circumstances, has grown in 
strength, and, stretching out its sympathetic arms, has since gathered into its 
folds many of the loved and lost of Stephenson County. Two years later, the 
Rev. F. C. Winslow and John A. Clark headed a temperance movement in 
Freeport, holding sessions of an order of Crusaders in a little room over a saloon, 
at the corner of Galena and Chicago streets. From these insignificant 
commencements, the cause of temperance has increased each year, until 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 265 

to-day it is a power for good in the county, including among the members of its 
organizations some of the most capable, intelligent and educated influences in 
this portion of the State. 

The amusements of the people, for by this time amusements had become 
more general, were naturally, by reason of the limited resources in their behalf, 
confined to a class of entertainments requiring preparations and expenditures 
by no means elaborate or extravagant. With some, dancing was a species of 
pleasure, indulged upon appropriate occasions, and there are a number of ladies 
residing in the county to-day, married years ago, who well remember the sharp, 
frosty nights, upon which they mounted a horse and galloped off" through 
the brisk air to attend a dance in some distant log cabin to the inspiriting notes 
of a fiddle manipulated by Daniel Wooton, "Professor" Clark, or musicians 
of equal skill and repute. Sleigh-riding became a favorite amusement in time, 
as did skating, while the elegant accomplishments were made up of the house- 
hold duties with which the girl of the period, to whom gilt is gold, and curb- 
stone wit philosophy, is entirely unfamiliar. 

To those who regarded dancing as an evil to be avoided, quiltings and 
sociables were substituted, and no doubt contributed a fund of humor to the 
company attracted. The circus was never known in the county until along 
about 1842, and it was years after that, before the lecturer or facial contortionist 
came along and paved a way for the building of a theater to accommodate 
tragedians very much crushed, limp disciples of Comus, the ballet, the minstrels 
or Little Buttercup and Pinafore. 

The public health was never quoted in those days, and sanitary commis- 
sioners, harmless as doves, but without the wisdom of serpents, were reserved 
for the future to delineate. Physicians were somewhat of a rarity, too, and, 
when sickness prostrated settler after settler, these indispensable adjuncts to com- 
fort and consequent happiness were without leisure. The complaints suffered 
from in those days were generally of a kind indigenous to a new country, being 
made up of chills, ague, intermittent and other fevers that most always yielded 
temporarily to remedies. Senna, salts, quinine and calomel were staple com- 
modities kept by storekeepers, and it was a rare occurrence when they were 
without all of these articles. The patient was most generally charged with 
compounds of which the constituent parts were as above indicated. While his 
system remained thus impregnated he was free from ailment, but let him sus- 
pend a dose and the last stage of his disease was worse than the first. This 
liability to attack remained until the lands were drained and cultivated, the 
forests cut down, and pure air substituted for the miasmatic vapors that proceeded 
from rank vegetation and the swamps. When these improvements were gradu- 
ally completed, they brought health to the frames that were palsied by sickness 
and bloom to cheeks from which the color had long since fled. The waste 
places were built up and the lands were made to bud and blossom again. 

Society, it might be here observed, was such as is peculiar to a new 
country, and, while there were many marriages, there were also many 
bachelors, living by themselves, and, with fewer women to reverence than in 
older settled constituencies, there may have been a lack of reverence for women. 
But there was an absence of scandal, either of a private nature or of the 
weakness of public characters, which cannot be otherwise regarded than as 
a compensation. For the absence of agencies, which, while they may conduce 
to enjoyment yet promote infelicities, is to be desired and commended. This 
condition of affairs is not only natural but inevitable, in new countries where 
the first fight is for life, and the masculine quality predominates. But with the 



266 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

progress made, and the civilizing influences that come with Time, the feminine 
nature increased. It crept in everywhere, in men and women alike, in intel- 
lectual culture, in art and social intercourse, refining and hallowing the atmos- 
phere of every-day life. In affairs of public morals, of education and religion, 
it created a healthy progress. The New England element was largely repre- 
sented, their Puritan habits softened by association with the free life of a young 
settlement and its cosmopolitan inhabitants, though preserving the best quali- 
ties of decency, order, justice and constant progress upward in morality and 
virtue. As the ratio of production increased, the ratio of comfort and pros- 
perity grew, and as productive enterprises were ventured, the country was 
benefited by an increase in the amount of capital seeking investment. Coun- 
tries, like individuals, are great only as they are teachers, and the history of 
early settlements in the Northwest shows that they are great because they 
have taught that there are mines of treasure to be gained by industry and per- 
severance, and that rich gems of blessing will be laid bare to the toiler. 

With the progress made, as cited, the history of Stephenson County enters 
upon another year of its existence. This year would contain many new 
features, it was thought, and be an improvement upon the one that had closed. 
The people had met discouragements in years gone by, in opposition from 
sections possessing greater inducements for settlers, but were never overcome by 
them. They had encountered difficulties which are always strewn in the walks 
of life. In place of being vanquished, these awoke their sleeping energies and 
set them to working with increased determination. Their resources were 
tested, and the metal of their composition tried in the fire. They realized that 
the earth was not a Paradise, but put forth thorns at every season. They also 
realized that labor and perseverance conquer every opposition, surmount every 
difficulty and overcome misfortune. They were taught these lessons in the 
schools of experience, and guided in the future by the admonitions they 
impressed. 

During 1841, there was absolutely nothing to discourage the people or 
make them to rejoice with exceeding joy. No event of importance, it is 
believed, occurred to startle the nation or paralyze the public. If human 
agencies were lacking of contributions toward perfection, Dame Nature continued 
to act in her blandest, most beneficial mood, lavishing her gifts to promote the 
welfare of all, the productive soil yielding abundantly of every farm staple 
intrusted to its keeping, and the forests giving up their choicest growth for 
building, fencing and other purposes. The falling-off in the number of emi- 
grants, begun the previous year, was continued, and improvements were, as a 
rule, confined to the villages. The professions began to be more freely repre- 
sented this year, and some who have since left the impress of their characters 
upon the years that followed, identified themselves with the county from 1889 
to 1842. But few remain to recount the difficulties that met them at every 
turn, or how dangerous a thing to them the "little learning" they possessed 
often proved to be; but they survived opposition, and became powerful advocates 
and accomplished scientists in after days. 

One of these gentlemen, who has since occupied distinguished positions on 
the bench and at the bar, related to the writer a scrap of his experience when first 
landing in Freeport. It was almost at the close of the year, and the wintry sky hung 
lowering and repellant. With ten shillings in his purse, a few books, and a still 
less generous wardrobe, he dismounted from the "jumper" at Mr. Goddard's 
Mansion House, and contemplated the immediate future, as may be imagined, 
with no very cheerful conclusions. As a matter of course, he began to climb the 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY, 267 

hill, and it was many days before he halted for the rest and encouragement occu- 
pation begets. But the day came wjien forensic eloquence was demanded, when, 
to express it in the spirit of the day, the present Judge was in town, where he 
has since remained, honored and enriched by the practice which he obtained. 
He long since attained the summit of professional prosperity, but in his days of 
retirement he often recurs to his entry into Freeport as among the most event- 
ful, if not the happiest, of a life that has been passed amid scenes as varied with 
sunshine and shadow as a day in June. 

During the early period of 1842 there were no changes, either in the tem- 
poral or spiritual surroundings of the situation in Stephenson County to report. 
But, as the days came and went, they were characterized by events out of the 
ordinary channel in which the lives of settlers and citizens had previously 
•drifted. The payment of interest on the public debt had been abandoned, and 
the financial embarrassments of the State began to be felt. To add to the dis- 
tress of the people, State banks were beginning to grow " shaky," and finally 
to collapse. There was no trade, and business stagnation was complete. 
Values declined, and the agricultural portion of the community were unable to 
dispose of their crops, except at prices that entailed a loss on the cost of pro- 
duction. In this crisis, the farmers of Stephenson County, and merchants of 
towns located within her boundaries, though not entirely unscathed, suffered 
less than points more thickly settled, and from other causes susceptible to its 
influences. But there is no doubt that emigration hither was lessened, though 
some of the choicest spirits ever associated with the county's history came in 
during this period. 

WALLACE SUICIDE. 

During the summer of this year, an old settler named William Wallace, 
who had settled in the county five years before, suicided by hanging at the 
edge of Rock Grove, and died before he was discovered. His neighbors 
regarded him as insane from infelicities, with the exact import of which no one 
could be found who was familiar, and, while thus oppressed, he had sought in 
the unknown world that peace of mind denied him here. He was discovered, 
it is said, by some lads traveling in pursuit of cows, who advertised the fact 
to the few settlers in the vicinity, by whom he was cut down and buried 
almost in sight of the tree under which his troubles were dissipated with his life. 

Notwithstanding the tight times made mention of, the county was regarded 
as a terminal point of great excellence by residents of the Eastern States and 
elsewhere, and agents from communities contemplating emigration to the 
West were to be found here prospecting and making examinations of the 
resources, with a view to submit reports that should be acted upon by those 
who had commissioned them. This was not confined to the Eastern States 
alone, but extended to foreign parts. It will be remembered that the Nor- 
wegians, who settled in Rock Run about 1839, adopted this policy before deter- 
mining upon settlement, and their judgment obtained in other countries of 
Europe — for example, in England. In the spring of 1842, the inhabitants of 
farming shires there empowered an agent to visit America and select a location 
where they could secure land at reasonable rates, that, by the employment of 
the same means which at home gave them only a tolerable income, they might 
be enabled to amass a competency. Acting upon these instructions, he visited 
Illinois, and was so impressed with the inducements offered in present Ridott 
Township, that he advised the colony to settle there as possessing every advan- 
tage that could be had at home, in addition to many inaccessible in England, even 



268 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

to those in easy circumstances. The communication containing this ultimatum 
was received, and, after some delay devoted to deliberation, its adoption was 
decided upon, and preparations were inaugurated for the journey. These 
completed, sail was set, and a colony, consisting of about twenty-two, landed at 
their future home in Ridott Township, on the 28th of August, 1842, and 
established themselves in the timber near the present village. They were 
composed of the sturdy class of English yeomanry, under whose watchful care 
and taste Devonshire, Sussex and other vicinages have prospered, to-day 
abounding in scenes of exquisite beauty, with groves, gardens and residences 
that charm the beholder, inspiring him with emotions of the sublime and beau- 
tiful, and educating the heart to reverence the gifts of Nature and Nature's 
God. The settlement made here was inhabited by this character of people, 
who have aided most liberally in the improvements of that portion of the 
county, some of whom reside there still. In many cases, they are the propri- 
etors of vast estates, which are highly cultivated, and stocked with the choicest 
specimens of improved breeds. Their houses are commodious, substantially 
built, provided with libraries and centers of comfort. Industrious, with much 
of that geniality and bonhomie recognized as characteristics of cultivators of 
the soil, they have done a great deal to develop the section in which they settled, 
by the appropriation of improved systems of agriculture, the large crops they 
have laid by, and the air of independent comfort made manifest in their sur- 
roundings. 

The original settlement remained intact for about one year, when the com- 
munity of interest which prevailed was interrupted and never afterward 
resumed. Death visited the home of one and left his mark upon its posts. A 
wife who came to the new world sickened and died before she scarcely realized 
the change, but, amid strangers and scenes unlike those she had come from, 
closed her eyes in death. May it not be, however, that in her cabin in the 
wilderness, where she may have lingered through the night unconscious of 
friends around her, she heard a strain of the mysterious harmony from afar, 
in the midst of dreams of England, the long path across the ocean and friends 
and home ? 

This event, with others of a similar character that followed in its wake, 
bred a feeling of discontent and loneliness that comes when frail mortality has 
run its race and the golden ripple comes back no more, which precipitated a 
dissolution of the band and distributed its members over the West. The separa- 
tion came gradually, however, and it was not until two years after their coming 
that the surviving members left the rendezvous rendered sacred by associations 
and mournful memories. Many remained in Stephenson County with results 
already quoted, whose worth and standing are as pronounced as they are the 
fulfillment of a promise always pledged to industry and enterprise. 

The English colony was the largest addition to the inhabitants at any point 
in the county this year, it is believed, Freeport included. Settlers visited other 
portions of Stephenson, it is true, and some remained, but the large proportion 
that it was a few years before expected would make the county an abiding 
place, failed to materialize either in numbers or frequency of arrivals. The 
reasons for this were doubtless due to hard times and bad roads, though, as 
before remarked, the hard times did not produce that distress in this as in other 
counties and States. This was owing to the fact that the people, as also the 
county, having been accustomed to pay as they went, were comparatively free 
from debt. The failure of fresh arrivals, however, disturbed no one ; the farm- 
ers continued to labor for the development of this "beautiful land. " Schools, 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 269 

to cultivate the intellect of the growing generation to educate its uses, and 
religion to inculcate a respect for morals not less than for self. The merchants 
increased somewhat in number, as did their business, and they looked forward 
to a time, in the near future, when their days of probation would be over. 
Mechanical industries, though, had by this year, begun to assume a prominence in 
keeping with the times- Wagon and carriage shops were accessible, and that 
class of work obtained without resorting to lengthy trips and submitting to 
scores of inconveniences. Blacksmith shops had been established where once 
they were unknown, and agricultural implements were substituted where a few 
years before their use had been ridiculed. 

The season of 1843 was, in point of material prosperity, an improvement 
over the previous year. Additions were made to the population, farms became 
more productive, though markets were as far beyond reach as they had been, 
farmers being still compelled to draw their wheat to Chicago and receive a price 
per bushel totally disproportionate to the cost of raising, thrashing and trans- 
portation. Yet the opportunities to obtain loads on the return trip were more 
favorable and paid better, for building in Freeport and at other localities was 
becoming more general, and not unfrequently the material was procured at 
Chicago. The lead mines were still visited occasionally, when the settler was 
in a hurry to dispose of his crops, but as markets they ceased to bear so impor- 
tant a relation to the county as had existed in earlier years. The spring was 
passed amid bustle and some disorders incident to the resumption of business 
and farming, and summer came and went without any apparent diminution in 
these particulars — not disorders involving violations of law, for this was not 
permitted by the orderly residents, but the hurry and carelessness evidenced 
where business is paramount to all other considerations. The composition of 
the emigrants who came in this year was remarked as gratifying. They were 
as a rule substantial men, untainted by association with adventurers, who seek 
to conquer adversity without reference to the means employed in that behalf. 
In the fall, when the crops had been gathered and stacked, and an account was 
taken of the season's profits, if a very small balance remained to the credit of 
the producer, it was gratify ingly exceptional and encouraging. 

THE BOARDMAN MURDER. 

This year witnessed the first murder reported in the annals of Stephen- 
son County, that is, after the county was incorporated as such. The scene of 
the tragedy was a farm in Rock Grove Township, at that time owned by Daniel 
Noble. It seems, according to report, that Noble employed a man to assist him 
about the farm, by the name of Boardman. The relations existing between them 
were of a character that, when the latter mysteriously disappeared, Noble's state- 
ments were received without dispute. One day in the fall of the year, Noble and 
Boardman took their guns and started off on a hunt, remaining absent for a day 
or so without exciting distrust. One afternoon Noble turned up without his 
companion, and, upon being interrogated as to his absence, stated that, hav- 
ing tired of the point at which he resided, he had made up his mind to seek a 
location elsewhere. He had departed in the direction of, and asserted that he 
was going to, Wisconsin. Previous to separating, the missing man handed a 
watch to Noble and requested that he would deliver it to Mrs. Boardman, with 
the assurance that when he was established he would send for her. The gun, 
it was said, he had carried off. The winter passed without hearing from the 
absent one, and, though anxiety was expressed among the settlers as to the cause, 
no suspicion was directed toward Noble. The spring came and went without 



270 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

aught happening or being done to solve the mystery of Boardman's continued 
and prolonged silence. As summer appeared, with the dawn of June, a query 
was addressed to many in this connection, calculated to assail the innocence of 
Noble, and put him upon the defensive. One afternoon, Mr. Marsh, a neigh- 
bor, was engaged in the discharge of his farm duties, when his sense of smell 
was assailed by the stench of corruption, and he hastened to ascertain the cause. 
After a brief search, his efforts were rewarded by the finding of a human skel- 
eton in the brush, so decayed that it was beyond recognition, yet bearing 
marks indicating that he had met death by violence. Mr. Marsh detached the 
skull from its connection with the body, and, proceeding to Noble's premises, 
exhibited his "find" to the latter, who was engaged in threshing in his barn. 
His appearance upon being confronted with the spectacle was calculated to con- 
firm previous suspicions, and after consultation it was decided to arrest him on 
the following day, or as soon thereafter as a warrant could be obtained therefor 
from Justice Frank eberger. In the mean time, Noble directed his wife to get 
ready, and that night he quietly disappeared. Mrs. Noble he left at her fathers, 
in Ogle County, while he proceeded to Dixon, where he left his team, thence 
to parts unknown. He was never arrested, and the death of Boardman, in all 
probability a victim to the unsettled condition of affairs at that day, or the turbu- 
lent passions of man, has always been involved in mystery. 

A correspondent of the Madison (Wis.) Express, traveling through this 
country about that time, gives his impressions of portions of the county 
through which he passed, as follows : 

" Since I have been here I have been about the county considerably, and 
have become well convinced that it is well deserving of the high reputation it 
has attained, of being one of the very best counties in the State. From Rock- 
ford to this place (Freeport), the road passes through one continuous prairie, 
with the exception of a grove about one mile in length. The prairie is quite 
rolling, in many places amounting to hills, with an uncommonly rich and fertile 
soil. There is in this county less waste land on account of sloughs or marshy 
places than in most prairie countries with which I am acquainted. Yet the 
land is admirably well watered, there being a clear creek nearly every 
mile, wending its way through the prairie to the Pecatonioa. These, I am told, 
originate in springs, the water being always clear and pure, and the streams 
never dry. The banks of the creeks are usually high, and the land, on either 
side of the water's edge, is perfectly dry. A heavy body of timber is to be 
found on the north side of the Pecatonica River, the best growth I have ever 
found in the State. It is mainly oak, but in many places we find a great 
variety of heavy timber." 

The population of the county was then supposed to be somewhere between 
five and ten thousand, and was "rapidly increasing." The amount of wheat 
raised in the county, that year, was upward of fifty thousand bushels, which 
talked well for a county that had been settled a little less than ten years. It was 
but ten years since Mr. Waddams erected the first cabin, and what vast changes 
time had wrought ! Since that day, though, the progress of the county has 
been far more rapid — far beyond the wildest expectations of the most hopeful 
enthusiast. The five thousand inhabitants have increased to nearly ten times 
that number. The prairies, with scarcely a cabin to vary the monotony of the 
landscape, now present unbroken chains of the finest farms in the country, 
ornamented with mansions and buildings. The dirt roads and corduroy tracks, 
with their lumber wagons and " prairie schooners," have given place to the 
railways and palace cars. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 271 

The following year, 1844, was characterized by the arrival of a class of 
settlers who were possessed of some means, and desirous of investing a portion 
of what they brought with them in lands, to hold the same until it appreciated 
in value, when sales could be eifected with profit. At that time, F. D. Bulk- 
ley was Recorder of the county, and, in the discharge of his official duties 
appertaining to the position, he was sometimes assisted by his daughter and 
niece. These young ladies, though almost constantly occupied, were ever ready 
to assist the pursuit of knowledge by strangers who were endeavoring to trace 
a chain of title, and generally had little time to devote to anything else. These 
visitors were quite numerous, and many of those who came in at that time and 
became real-estate speculators have remained, and are now large land-owners. 

About this period, the troubles arising between purchasers and claimants 
first found open expression, and sometimes reached a state of affairs that could 
only be likened to a combat between the cats of Kilkenny, or worse. As will 
be remembered, these troubles grew out of the land sales at Dixon, and were 
pursued until one of the contesting parties had reached the end of his worsted. 
In these sales, the doctrine caveat emptor should have obtained, but did not 
apply. The purchaser of a claim by no means secured possession of his 
property by the payment of the purchase money. If its location impinged upon 
the claim of an old campaigner, or rather one who had come in at an early day 
and borne the heat of the battle, he was decided in his refusal to yield the 
coign of vantage to one who came on to the field when the victory was won. 
In many of the townships the fight between claimants and purchasers was 
prolonged and bitter. If the purchaser insisted upon maintaining his title to 
the property, he was met by opposition which endangered his remaining, and in 
all cases realizing this fact, he generally abandoned the field of occupation to his 
foe, and departed for other scenes. There is no recorded case of homicide grow- 
ing out of these disturbances, but these may have been avoided by the surrender 
of him whose alleged right was disputed. An instance of this is to be found in 
the case of a resident of Rock Run, who innocently became a trespasser, though 
he claimed title to lands purchased at Dixon. His neighbors, including the 
Seeleys, Carnefex, Webb, Davis and others, so interfered with his occupation 
that he was compelled finally to abandon the land and go elsewhere. These 
troubles, however, were finally compromised, and long since ceased to exist ; 
but, while they were active, nothing short of civil war, say those familiar with 
its ramifications, could equal the land contests for bitterness and refusal to yield. 

There were many other annoyances to which these same people were 
subjected, long after the introduction of civil process, and the establishment of 
courts ; but they have not occurred during late years, and need only be 
referred to as among the incidents of life in the West at an early day. 

Among those who came in 1844, was the Hon. John H. Addams, President 
of the Second National Bank, and as prominently identified with landed as 
monetary affairs. He settled in Cedarville, where he purchased the mill built, 
in 1837, by Dr. Van Valzah. He has represented the district, in which 
Stephenson County is included, in the State Senate, is the father of railroad 
enterprise in Stephenson County, and of the extension of lines to points that 
were thereby benefited. In all the departments of life he has sustained a 
character above criticism, and is esteemed not more for his unimpeachable 
integrity than his enterprise and public spirit. 

The year 1845 was not different from 1844, in any of its salient features. 
The prospects were no more discouraging than had been those of that year, and 
the improvements had kept pace with the times, though the rush of emigration 



272 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

and the influx of money was not by any means proportioned to the wishes of 
the people. Farmers were yet obliged to market their products in Chicago, 
and put up with treatment that enforced a belief that their lives were not nearly 
so independent as they were considered by men who contemplated them from a 
distance. Little had been done even at this late day, to render the roads 
passable, and, when teamsters en route to Chicago or other distant points found 
them to be in a condition that forbade their attempting to proceed, they unloaded, 
and, returning to Freeport, waited until the weather and improvement of the 
highways permitted them to renew the attempt. This entailed a second loss in 
the depreciated value of the quality, which, with that estimated by the purchaser 
in Chicago, had a tendency to diminish the area of cultivation, and turn atten- 
tion to other sources of revenue which would not be so severely assessed. 

The coming of railroads, however, a few years later, rather equalized the 
necessities of both planter and factor, and removed this embargo to progress 
and wealth. 

MEXICAN WAR. 

Before the close of 1845, the dispute with Mexico, consequent upon the 
admission of Texas, became so open and apparently beyond the powers of 
diplomatic agents to adjust, that war between that nation and the United 
States was only a question of time. This was what came, as all remember, after 
robberies and outrages had been perpetrated under the cloak of official sanction, 
involving the loss of millions of dollars' worth of property to Americans resi- 
dent in Mexico and upon the border. 

When hostilities were begun, a call was made for volunteers, apportioned 
mostly to the Western and Southern States, and the requisition from Illinois 
embraced three regiments. When this proclamation was promulgated, and 
reached Stephenson County, it created an excitement and enthusiasm only 
equaled by that precipitated by the firing upon Sumter. Age forgot its 
crutch and labor its task ; and youth, rank and genius rushed into the lists, 
anxious to be of the number who should follow the eagles of another Cortes and 
camp in the halls of the Montezumas. Nor was this spirit of ardent patriotism 
confined to the men. It was manifested by ladies, who formed sewing societies and 
aided in the fashioning of uniforms for the soldiers, and flags for the regiments. 
Public meetings were convened and the situation discussed by men who hurled 
oratorical thunderbolts against the pugnacious foe. Volunteers were enlisted 
without bounty or effort, and, after imperfect preparation, hurried to the field 
of battle, thirsting for reputation and gore. 

In Freeport, a public meeting was called, which convened at the court 
house, during the continuance of this excitement, and was largely attended by 
representatives from all portions of the county. Maj. John Howe officiated as 
Chairman ; addresses of patriotic import were made by Thomas J. Turner. 
S. B. Farwell and others, and some enlistments were secured that evening, 
What is true in this connection regarding the feeling at Freeport, applies to 
other portions of the county. Wherever a settlement existed, the utmost enthu- 
siasm was manifested, and volunteers were greatly in excess of the demand. 
About twenty-five recruits were obtained in Stephenson County, including 
William Goddard, of West Point, who was promoted to a Captaincy, and survived 
the contest to fall at Shiloh ; the Pattee boys, George and Jason, from Lancaster 
and Silver Creek ; Foster Hart, from Florence, with others representing the 
remaining townships. They were apportioned to the company commanded by 
Captain McKinney, of Dixon, it is said, and formed part of the Second Regiment 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 273 

of Illinois troops, of which J. L. D. Morrison, of St. Clair County, but latterly 
a resident of St. Louis, was appointed Colonel. The regiment was mustered 
in July 2, 1846, and, after a brief sojourn in camp, crossed the Rio Grande and 
entered the city of Santa Rosa, thence proceeding to the base of the Sierra 
Gorda. This regiment participated in the battle of Buena Vista, and other 
engagements, being finally disbanded at Camargo, whence they returned home, 
arriving in Springfield, June 4, 1847, thence to their several places of enlist- 
ment. 

The soldiers on their reaching home were received with marks of affection, 
and tendered, as they deserved, the enthusiastic welcomes of the people. 
Dinners, addresses, toasts and speeches greeted their arrival ; newspapers in 
the vicinity lauded their patriotism, while, as candidates for office, civilians were 
obliged to yield precedence to the victorious warrior. Those who had fallen 
on the battle-field, or died in the hospital, were held in sacred remembrance, 
while the wounded who bore the marks of strife, were regarded with an awe 
and veneration passing comparative comprehension. 

In April, 1847, the Government issued another call for troops, that was 
responded to with equal readiness, and the lists of volunteers, it is believed, 
were made up in part of residents of Stephenson County, mustered into the 
Sixth Regiment. However, the fall of the City of Mexico virtually ended the 
war, and, beyond investing Vera Cruz, and the engagement at Tampico, the 
duties of the two battalions into which this regiment was divided, were confined 
to garrisons, returning home when peace was declared, to again take part in the 
duties which had been temporarily abandoned to engage in the pursuit of arms. 

RAILROADS. 

In the fall of 1846, according to the record, the people began to appreci- 
ate the necessity of an outlet and a market for their crops, and a strong feeling 
in favor of railroads began to manifest itself. This was the beginning of an 
era in the progress of the State, county and city. The farmers had long before 
realized how utterly hopeless any approach to independence could be made 
under the existing condition of affairs. The labor employed in cultivating the 
soil and laying by the crops, together with the expense of conveying them to 
market, left but a small margin when high prices were paid for their products. 
But the rates received by them, per bushel for their grain, and other expenses 
incurred in its delivery, left them no margin for present necessities or future 
operations. They must either obtain more remunerative prices, less expensive 
means of transportation, or engage in occupations that would not only afford a 
living, but a surplus upon which to live when age incapacitated them from the 
active duties of life. With these sentiments, the project of securing a railway, 
accessible to farmers in the county, was canvassed, and met with a hearty 
response from those interested. Scheming brains, with an eye to the future, 
endeavored to formulate a plan by which this inestimable desideratum might 
be attained, and its powerful aid secured to develop the country, as also to 
educate, civilize, and Christianize the people. People talked about the influences 
it would exert, and it became a topic of general conversation on the streets, or 
in the hotels, in the commercial marts, and by the fireside. However, nothing 
came of the efforts made in that connection during the year 1846 but plans 
which did not crystallize into acts, and it was not until the following year that 
practical work commenced. 

On January 7, 1847, quoting from the recollections of John H. Addams, 
who was prominently instrumental in agitating the subject until it was "egarded 



274 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

feasible, the first railroad convention ever held in the Western country was con- 
vened at Rockford. The attendance was very large, and included representa- 
tives from all portions of the country. Among those who attended from Ste- 
phenson County, the residents of which, by the way, were instrumental in call- 
ing the meeting, were John H. Addams, Luman Montague, Jackson Richart, D. 
A. Knowlton, Martin P. Sweet and Adrian Lucas. W. B. Ogden, Walter 
Newberry and I. N. Arnold were present from Chicago, and, after the disposi- 
tion of preliminary business, the questions at issue were very generally dis- 
cussed. The Chicago party proposed to commence the building of a road under 
a charter previously obtained, and this led to the organization of a company 
under which the Galena & Chicago road was constructed. 

Though there was scarcely any money in the country, and it was indis- 
pensable to the success of the corporation that $20,000 of stock be taken in the 
county, the people subscribed as liberally as their limited means would permit, 
and succeeded in raising this amount. Railroad meetings were not frequent in 
those days, the settlers residing so far apart that they could not assemble at a 
moment's notice, and those interested in placing the stock were obliged to travel 
the county to secure its taking. Wherever they went the residents were found 
willing to co-operate, the ladies vieing with the sterner sex in their readiness to 
render assistance. They appreciated how necessary it was to have the road 
built, and were prepared to make any personal sacrifice to further the under- 
taking. Many of them helped pay for the stock subscribed for at their solicita- 
tion from the profits derived by the sales of butter, cheese and other house- 
hold productions, even depriving themselves of the means necessary to educate 
their children that a railroad might be built for the good of that and future 
generations. The stock sales were but incidents connected with an enterprise 
the establishment of which is always attended with difficulties. The road was 
finally completed to Belvidere, when the management was called upon to 
encounter greater vexations than any it had been able to dispose of up to that 
time. At this point an effort was made to divert the road from its original route 
to Savannah, which would leave Stephenson County without the benefits her peo- 
ple had so industriously labored for and liberally contributed to obtaining. 
Those who had urged the taking of stock were discouraged at the apparent 
failure of the scheme, while those who had subscribed were bitter in their 
expressions of disappointment. 

Finally, a committee of gentlemen from Freeport, composed of J. H. 
Addams, D. A. Knowlton, 0. H. Wright and John A. Clark, visited Rockford 
to endeavor to procure the execution of the original contract, and secured the 
indorsement of the people that so far as they could influence a decision it 
should be done. The trip was continued to Chicago, and after labors that were 
effectual as were the laborers deserving of the public thanks, the project of divert- 
ing the road was abandoned. Labor was continued on the route, and in August, 
1853, the iron horse entered Freeport amid the rejoicings that such an 
occasion would bring forth. After many days, the trials of the people had 
become resolved into a triumph both pronounced and valuable. Those days 
have long since glided into the past, and the pioneer, who then acted his part in 
the struggle for improvement, realizes in the present days, always bright and 
clear with the glad sunshine and the song of birds, that " God will remember 
the world." 

The building of the Illinois Central was begun almost with the building 
of the Galena & Chicago, and its entry into Freeport was made almost 
at the same time. The grand scheme of connecting Lake Michigan with the 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 275 

Mississippi had long been a desideratum with the people of Illinois, and when, 
in 1850, an act was passed by Congress granting 3,000,000 acres to the State 
to aid in its construction, the completion of the road was regarded almost as a 
foregone conclusion. 

The act granted a right of way- for the railroad through the public lands 
the width of two hundred feet from the southern terminus of the Illinois 
and Michigan Canal to a point at or near the junction of the Ohio and Mis- 
sissippi Rivers, and for branches to Chicago and Galena. The construction of 
the road was to be commenced at its northern and southern termini simul- 
taneously, and when completed, the branches were to be built. 

With the passage of this bill, it became the duty of the Legislature of Illi- 
nois to make a disposition of this grant, which should be not only prudent and 
wise, but satisfactory. After no inconsiderable delay, caused by the efforts 
necessary to defeat peculation and the appropriation of the franchise by other 
parties, a bill was passed by the Legislature, and became a law February 10, 
1851, providing for its survey, construction and equipment. 

When the bill passed, or rather prior thereto, an understanding existed 
between the agent of the English capitalists, who were to furnish the money to 
build the road, and the Galena & Chicago management, that the former 
would proceed to Galena and the Mississippi River via Freeport. In consider- 
ation of this, the Galena road was to terminate at Freeport, and assign the right 
of way thence to Galena to the Illinois Central. This was the outgrowth of 
the efforts made during the construction of that road to divert its route in the 
direction of Savannah. When that question was under consideration, as will 
be remembered, a committee representing Stephenson County visited Rock- 
ford and Chicago, and labored for the prevention of so great a violation of the 
contract under which stock was subscribed to its building. The labors of this 
committee produced a restraining effect, as would appear in the light of subse- 
quent events, upon the influences exerted, and brought the road, as was prom- 
ised it should come, direct to Freeport. 

Surveys were at once commenced, and by the spring of 1852, had made 
such progress that grading and track-laying were succeeding each other with 
gratifying rapidity, and the road completed to Freeport in 1853, with but little 
interruption. While the work was progressing in Silver Creek Township, 
near Crain's Grove, an emeute was caused among the laborers by the dissatis- 
faction expressed by strikers for higher wages. At first no attention was paid 
to the demands or complaints by the contractors. Emboldened by the admis- 
sions this silence was construed into conceding, the "gang" suddenly aban- 
doned work, with the significant assurance that it would not be resumed until 
they had a surfeit of leisure. Soon after their pugnacity became excited with 
drafts of liquor, which was on tap in the camp, and for a brief period it seemed 
as if a reign of terror would be substituted for peace and order, so difficult to 
maintain. At this juncture, the railroad authorities appealed to the law for 
protection, whereupon Capt. J. W. Crane marshaled his militiamen and, 
marching to the scene of disorder, distributed the whisky among the woods 
and creeks, dispersed the rebels, suppressed the disorder and came marching 
home with a consciousness of duty well performed. 

The road was completed to Dubuque, Iowa, in May 1855, and on July 18, 
of that year, was formally opened with a celebration, attended by many who had 
been instrumental in procuring its construction and equipment. Stephenson 
County sent her prominent men to the city of Julien Dubuque, to grace with 
their presence an occasion so felicitous with the results of labors in which they 



276 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

had been " wheel-horses." Stephen A. Douglas orated, and the predictions 
he ventured regarding the future of Illinois, many have lived to see realized. 

The Illinois Central enters the county in the southern portion of Silver 
Creek Township, passing through Silver Creek, Harlem, Erin and West Point, 
a distance of about fifteen miles. The Northwestern or Galena and Chicago, 
passes through Ridott and Silver Creek, to Freeport, its western terminus. 

The Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul line, entering the county near Davis, 
in Rock Run Township, was formerly operated under the name of the " Racine 
& Mississippi Railroad." It passes through Rock Run, Dakota, Lancaster, Silver 
Creek and Florence Townships, and does a large way business. The company 
was chartered in 1852, to build a road from Racine to Beloit, and was organized 
the same year. The city of Racine and the towns of Racine, Elkhorn, Dela- 
van and Beloit subscribed an aggregate of $490,000 for that amount of stock, 
while farmers along the line of the road took considerable of the same, for the 
payment of which they mortgaged their farms. The road was completed to 
Beloit in 1856, but, failing to pay interest on its bonds and maturing indebted- 
ness, a new company took possession of the property and refused to recognize 
the rights of the farmers who had hypothecated their realty for stock. Almost 
endless litigation followed the transfer of the corporation, but, the holders being 
innocent purchasers, the courts recognized their equities, and the mortgagors 
were compelled to pay them. 

Along in 1858-59, the extension of the road to Freeport was commenced 
and prosecuted with vigor. The labors thereon were continuous and uninter- 
rupted, save by an experience similar to that encountered by the Illinois Cen- 
tral in Silver Creek Township, i. e., a strike instigated by a number of unruly 
laborers who attempted to compete successfully with capital, but failed of 
achieving results. The affair occurred at " Deep Cut," and was participated 
in by a majority of those employed ; but Capt. Crane's company, with their arms 
at a "right-shoulder shift," hurried to the scene and suppressed the mutiny 
without loss. 

The road was completed to Freeport in 1859, and afterward extended to 
the Mississippi River at Savannah, thence to Rock Island. 

These enterprises stimulated industry and improvements, attracted 
increased emigration, appreciated the price of lands and increased the pros- 
pects of markets so instantly, that landholders became feverish with expectations 
of suddenly acquired wealth and were happy in contemplating the cheerful out- 
look. 

Nothing could have happened since the coming of the first settlers to add 
so pronounced an impetus to the agencies of civilization, which had been for 
years, it might be said, falling behind, as these undertakings. Towns were sur- 
veyed and laid off along the routes of these roads; manufacturing, educational, 
religious and other interests were cultivated, lots sold for city prices, buildings 
were erected, the area of cultivation increased, and when the roads were com- 
pleted a bound was experienced in prices that repaid the toilers for all the suf- 
ferings and privations they had previously undergone. Since then, with these 
arteries of wealth and commerce coursing the territory in nearly every 
direction, Stephenson County has enjoyed unrivaled facilities for its com- 
plete development and thrift and prosperity, barring the panics of 1857, and 
that precipitated by " Black Friday," continuous and unfailing. 

Freeport was not less benefited than the surrounding country. Thence 
onward the history of the city is not marked by any of the great trials, troubles 
or vexations of spirit which have been the lot of other corporations. The 




db£c 'MAlsL 



*-* f' -^ "^ • — V 



CEDARViLLE. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 279 

jealousies which had previously been indulged by rivals in the county, yielded 
to the logic of events and were dissipated. Strange contrast with the closing 
month of 1835, when William Baker erected his ''Indian Trading Post" and 
Ransomburg was coming to the front in its race for prominence. But the 
inhabitants who came into the future city, disregarding opposition, struggled 
manfully in the contest with results which not only attested their wisdom and 
pluck, but fully confirmed the truth of the premise, that excellence in any un- 
dertaking invariably follows in the wake of patience, perseverance and industry. 
The tide of emigration which tended in the direction of Stephenson County, at 
or about this period, left many who had come with it, residents of the town. 
Commercial interests increased, Freeport began to be regarded as by no 
means the least promising municipality west of Chicago, and farming was prose- 
cuted constantly and successfully. The uncertainties that succeeded the panic 
of 1837 were settled, and in their stead a feeling of confidence was substituted, 
which found expression in permanent and remunerative investments. Some 
improvements were projected, and a limited number completed. The water- 
power of Pecatonica River had been utilized, and mills and factories were com- 
pleted or contemplated. In short, the aggregate of business in city and county 
would be far in excess of previous years. These predictions were surely real- 
ized. The business portion of the town was limited to Galena and Stephenson 
streets, and, though carried on in establishments by no means epitomes of 
architectural skill or elegance, answered the purposes for which they had been 
erected. The residence part of the town was not a prominent feature, either. 
Some of the merchants not only "traded," but lived, moved and had their being 
in their stores. The court house was the most elaborate structure, and contin- 
ued to do duty for a variety of purposes, as of yore. The log schoolhouse on 
the bank of the river had been abandoned for school purposes, and the "old 
red schoolhouse" had become its successor. Religious classes were formed, 
and congregations organized, though it was not until two years later that the 
Presbyterians erected the first church edifice in the town. 

Politics had by this time assumed some degree of prominence, if not 
regarded as a staple commodity, and leaders were found, representing opposing 
sentiments, who attracted a generous following and support. The Whigs con- 
tended for superiority, and the Democrats felicitated themselves in the belief 
that they were the sole possessors of an air-line route to future success. 

The towns tributary to Freeport were equally fortunate, though to a more 
limited extent. Those who, for reasons satisfactory to themselves, preferred to 
identify themselves with those of similar ambition without its growth, " skipped " 
the county seat, and wended their several ways to Winslow, Orangeville and 
other points advertising advantages of location and promise of future eminence. 
Both these places were building up, having been laid out, as already mentioned, 
in anticipation of that dawn of prosperity which came gradually but surely. 
The New England Land Company, through agents in one and private enter- 
prise in the other, had employed capital and labor in behalf of each with happy 
results. The history of neither of these points has ever been fruitful of events 
that would either immortalize the names of their founders or startle the nation ; 
but both offer the inducements of quiet, social, educational and refining influen- 
ces to the professional and mechanical representative, for homes afar from the 
busy haunts of trade, where the sunshine of days unborn may be reflected, 
beautifying the present and lighting up the future with rays of purity. 



280 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

FAMINE OF 1848. 

Such was the outlook, as it appeared to citizens and settlers in the fall of 
1847, and was prorogued into 1848. These encouraging signs gave birth to a 
new condition of things, and elicited the most enthusiastic expressions among 
men who reason correctly. The spring of 1848 opened with a revival 
of business, and some settlers came with its dawn. Trade and commerce, 
which had so short a time before only survived, were large, and agriculturists, 
who had previously been dependent upon purchasers at other points for the 
sales of their products and stores of supplies, found accessible markets at home. 
This year, it will be remembered, the great famine prevailed in Ireland, and 
America responded to the calls of their famishing brethren over the sea. Ste- 
phenson County then contained a large number of Irishmen, who contributed 
of their abundance to the relief necessitated by the afflictions at home. And 
this was not confined to that nationality, either. Though there does not seem 
to have been any concert of action throughout the county, or the convening of 
meetings for the purpose of inaugurating united action, the sympathies of the 
people were not backward of expressing themselves, in liberal donations to the 
needy and afflicted in Ireland. Charity, generosity and sympathy, a trinity of 
virtues that grace the composition of true manhood, were not then, nor have 
they ever been, found wanting among settlers in new countries, and those who 
created Stephenson County proved no exception to the rule. 

TOWNSHIP ORGANIZATION. 

From 1837, the year during which Stephenson County was set apart from 
Jo Daviess, and civil government inaugurated, until the adoption of township 
organization, the county government was composed of three Commissioners, 
the first of which were Lemuel G. Streator, Isaac G. Forbes, and Julius Smith. 
This form of municipal government was maintained until 1850. 

The Constitution of Illinois, adopted March 6, 1848, and in force from 
and after April 1 of that year, declared that " the General Assembly shall 
provide, by a general law, for a township organization, under which any 
county may organize whenever a majority of the voters of such county, at any 
general election, shall so determine." 

At the session of the Legislature of 1849, the following act, providing for 
the proper organization of a township, by way of supplement to that quoted, 
was adopted : 

" Art. 1. Section 1. * * * * That at the next gen- 
eral election to be held in the several counties in this State, the qualified voters 
of each county may vote, for or against ' township organization ' in their 
respective counties," etc. 

Acting in obedience to these enactments, the constituted authorities issued 
a proclamation directing the holding of an election in Stephenson County, on 
the 5th day of November, 1849, for the purpose of indicating their adoption of 
the organization, provided for by the act cited. The opposition to this change 
in the form of government was neither numerous nor intense. There were some 
few, however, who were antagonistic to the proposed new order of affairs, but 
their votes of discord were drowned in the general acclamations which greeted 
its introduction, and at the election holden according to law, township organi- 
zation was accepted by a vote of 973 to 99. At the same election, George 
Purinton was elected County Judge, with George W. Andrews and Lewis 
Gibler, Associates; William Preston, County Clerk, and J. B. Smith, School 
Commissioner. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 281 

These preliminaries having been disposed of, the county entered at once 
upon its changed plan of government, and little delay was experienced in 
adapting the same to immediate and successful practice. 

The officers elected under the law qualified, and the County Court was con- 
vened in December, the Hon. George Purinton presiding. At its first session, 
Levi Robey, Robert Foster and Erastus Torrey were appointed Commissioners 
to lay off and subdivide the county into townships, pursuant to the statute in 
such case made and provided, and proceeded to organize and discharge the 
duties imposed without the exercise of unnecessary delay. 

After some time employed in laying off the township boundaries, adjusting 
disputes and completing their work, the Commissioners appointed by the court 
submitted a report, detailing the result of their labors to have been the sub- 
division of the county as provided by law, into the following townships : Rock 
Grove, Oneco, Wislow, West Point, Waddams, Buckeye, Rock Run, Freeport, 
Lancaster, Harlem, Erin, Loran, Florence, Silver Creek and Ridott. The 
township of Harlem was subsequently changed to Wayne by Commissioner 
Torrey, but the change, having been made after the submission of the report, 
and being without authority, was never confirmed. 

This report was accepted, and on the 5th of November, 1850, the follow- 
ing-named persons were elected Supervisors for their respective towns : Jonathan 
Reitzell, Lancaster; C. G. Epley, Rock Run; James J. Rogers, Rock Grove; 
George Cadwell, Oneco ; Cornelius Judson, Winslow ; Michael Lawver, Wad- 
dams ; John Montelius, Buckeye ; Daniel Wilson, West Point ; William M. 
Buckley, Harlem ; John I. F. Harman, Erin ; Conrad Van Brocklin, Flor- 
ence ; Gustavus A. Farwell, Ridott ; Samuel McAfee, Silver Creek ; Hiram 
Hart, Loran, and E. S. Hanchett, Freeport. 

The first meeting of the board was convened on November 11, 1850, and 
its organization perfected by the election of John I. F. Harman as Chairman. 
The members of the board were all present except Hanchett, of Freeport, who 
was absent, and failing to qualify, John K. Brewster was appointed in his 
stead, and took his seat as Supervisor from Freeport. 

The number of townships in the county was afterward increased by the 
formation of new townships out of those created as follows, and the representa- 
tion augmented: On the 17th of March, 1856, the township of Kent was 
formed out of a part of Erin ; at the September meeting of the board for the 
same year, the township of Loran was subdivided, the western portion being 
organized into Jefferson, and, in 1860, the township of Dakota was formed by 
the appropriation of the eastern portion of Buckeye to its name and posses- 
sion. 

From this on the organization has been preserved, and found to answer 
every expectation ventured in its behalf. 

THE HEGIRA TO CALIFORNIA, 1849. 

During this year, as will be inferred by reference to the tally lists kept at 
the election held in November, the population had become "numerous" through- 
out the county. The towns had grown, as every one who watched the progress 
of events admitted. Mills had become fixtures, and supplied the markets with 
lumber, flour and meal. Farmers disposed of their crops, and merchants and 
speculators made investments that the rust of age would not corrupt, and held 
them for the " boom " that came in after years. 

About this time the California gold fever, which had been of an " intermit- 
tent " character since 1847, attacked Stephenson County residents with a 



282 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

violence that brooked no mitigation, and there were quite a number who pro- 
cured outfits and proceeded across the plains to the Sutter discoveries. The 
excitement was not confined to any particular portion, but distributed itself 
quite generally ; wherever a settler had established his claim the "fever" put 
in an appearance, and, unless immediately checked, most generally added to the 
number of its victims. The list who wandered into that comparatively undis- 
covered land, numbered nearly a hundred this year, among whom were many 
young men who could be ill spared from the fields, or the commercial and 
professional walks in which they had become familiar to the public. Many of 
fchose who went thither returned with a surfeit of experience and poverty. A 
number remained in the West and rose to prominence, occupying positions of 
executive, as also legislative and judicial honor, in the Territories. Several that 
were well known in the town of Freeport, where, for the times, they were prosper- 
ously engaged, dropped the certainty of future preferment for the uncertainties 
of success in this new field, and became residents of that city beside the blue 
waves of the bay which rolls outward through the Golden Gate to the Pacific. 
Here they seemed to fail of realizing their too sanguine hopes, and fled to the 
interior, where they might be able to acquire in the mines that denied them in 
the city by arduous toil. Finally, they disappeared from these scenes, and, 
emigrating to Mexico, as some have it, or to Nicaragua, as others insist, joined 
the filibusters and went down with Walker, the "gray-eyed man of destiny," in 
his hopeless campaigns. 

Among the rest, there went from Stephenson County, John Mease, Elmus 
Baker, B. T. Buckley, Charles Willet, John Kirkpatrick, William Vore, 
Onesimus Weaver, — Shutz, William Patterson, Alfred Cadwell, J. W. Shaffer, 
P. C. Shaffer, Joseph Carey, S. B. Farwell, Charles Bogar, Joseph Quest, 
William Young, Robert Hammond, Charles O'Neil, Horatio Hunt (about 
this time), Cameron Hunt, who became Governor of Colorado, and many others 
whose names cannot be recalled, and whose fate is not of record. 

The crusaders in pursuit of gold usually went in parties, but rendezvoused 
at Freeport to lay in their stock of supplies, reserving organization until they 
had departed from the last habitable location previous to entering the Indian 
country. When they had secured what their necessities called for, pending 
departure, they left homes and friends, and, " striking out " over the prairie, 
crossed Iowa and encamped at Omaha, where final arrangements were concluded, 
and the long, weary trip to this promising El Dorado entered upon. For a few 
years next succeeding, reports of their success and condition came at intervals, 
and in some cases were the opposite of rose-colored. Sometimes the friends 
of those who had gone were shocked at the news received, sometimes they were hope- 
ful ; at no time were they enthusiastic. Gradually, and in shreds and patches, 
the story of their lives, and, in some instances, the death that had befallen 
them, their trials and their triumphs, were detailed and combined to weave a 
story from the warp and woof of real life as pathetic as it had been disastrous, 
as discouraging as it was pitiful, with bright chapters of success and happiness 
interspersed among its somber pages like a glint of sunshine on a day in 
December. 

There were citizens of Stephenson County also who went to California 
through another — that is, they invested in outfits for others' benefits, and pro- 
vided the ways and means to enable them to reach the land of promise, with a 
specific understanding that they should participate in the profits ; but in nearly 
every instance this confidence was found to be misplaced, and the investment made 
by the too confiding capitalist became permanent, with all that the term implies. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 283 

The effects of this emigration, while not discouraging to those who remained 
behind willing to labor and to wait, were not specially calculated to promote an 
extravagant enthusiasm. Large sums, comparatively, had been expended by 
the adventurers in the purchase of outfits, which created an increased volume of 
trade ; but this diminished with the departure of the purchasers, and a seeming 
paralysis affected the commercial and agricultural branches. Indeed, business 
was carelessly prosecuted, and there was an absence of spirit that was not pre- 
viously visible. The area of cultivation was measurably reduced in consequence 
of this exodus to California ; trade dragged, values were lowered, money 
became inconveniently scarce, and other evils followed in their wake. In fact, 
the effects that would naturally be produced on any settlement of substantially 
recent date by the withdrawal from its territory of fully one or two hundred 
residents, all young and able-bodied, was duplicated in Stephenson County. 

The fall gave place to winter, and that most inhospitable season of the 
year remained undisturbed by the happening of any accident or incident out of 
the sluggish current of events. Settlers drifted in during its course, and united 
with those already there in expressing confidence that the temporary dull times 
would give way to prosperous days with the return of spring, and the doubts 
and uncertainties, in the midst of which they then suffered, would be dissipated 
by the "logic of events." Buoyed up by such hopes, this dreary, inactive win- 
ter passed, and, as predicted, the county and its municipalities were granted a 
new lease of life. When spring blossoms came once more forth, the California 
fever had spent its force, and the county was rapidly convalescing' from the vio- 
lence of its attacks. Emigration was resumed, the new arrivals hailing from 
Pennsylvania and the Eastern States, and bringing with them, to supply the 
absence of material resources, the thrift, industry, and other characteristics of 
a people reared in a sterile section, where man's daily bread is indeed obtained 
in the sweat of his brow. 

In 1850, when the United States census was taken, the population of the 
county was quoted at 11,658, an increase of over 9,000 in ten years. Fifty 
private schools, with an average daily attendance of 2,000 scholars, had suc- 
ceeded to ten schools and 170 scholars in 1840. The improved lands in the 
county were estimated at 76,343 acres; lands unimproved aggregated upward 
of 280,000 acres. Farms in the county represented a valuation of $1,689,550, 
and farming implements, $108,000. There were four church edifices in the 
county, the most prominent being the brick Presbyterian Church, at the corner 
of Walnut and Stephenson streets, Freeport, and other improvements which 
might be included under the head of "public." This year there were 764,814 
bushels of grain of all kinds raised in the county, and the cultivation of fruit 
had assumed a reasonably gratifying prominence. 

During this decade, experiences similar to those which had previously 
greeted the county and its inhabitants, as also those of other sections, were 
endured and enjoyed. In 1850, a colony of Germans settled in Ridott Town- 
ship, and others who came at the same time, of the same race, became residents 
of townships immediately contiguous to and distant from the "tenting places" 
of their friends and countrymen, on the old State road, in the southeasternmost 
township of the county. 

The construction of the Galena & Chicago Railroad was progressing slowly, 
and that of the Illinois Central only awaited legislation before commencing. 

During the earlier years of the decade, beginning with 1850, pilgrims to 
California had, in some cases, given up their pursuit of gold, and returned 
home ; others, on whom the fickle goddess had smiled benignantly, evidenced 



284 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

the fruit of their labors by remittances to families and friends. In truth, there 
was a small per centage of liabilities incurred, and long since charged to P. and 
L., liquidated with the profits accruing from labor in the mines. 

In the city and county new faces were seen daily, and new arrivals for 
business noted in the weekly record of current events, which was then published 
by S. D. Carpenter, and known as the Prairie Democrat. Property, again, 
was regarded as increasing in value, new buildings were put up, both of brick 
and frame, commodious, substantial and appropriate to the purposes for which 
they were designed, was it either residence or business. In addition to these 
evidences of reviving prosperity, societies, both religious and secular, were 
organized ; associations, financial, commercial and social, were improvised and 
perfected. Thirteen years only had been required to accomplish what in days 
more remote had required, one might say, ages. In that period a wilderness 
had been converted into a garden. The iron age, in which man had been 
heated in the flames of adversity, and molded into form to combat opposition, 
had been converted into a golden age, when farms and factories resounded with 
the songs of rejoicing, when merchants were successful, and the cry of penury 
was silent in the land ; when schoolhouses were filled with ambitious youth, and 
churches with consistent worshipers. Law, science, ethics, politics and eloquence 
had their exponents among the inhabitants, and refinement and Christian 
humanity were possessions to which they held an indisputable title. 

There was nothing of moment worthy of perpetuation during this year ; 
business remained flourishing, and enterprises born of the encouraging season 
were ushered into being, with some confidence in the results. Migration began 
to resume somewhat of its former importance, and improved facilities for 
marketing products more than roused business men from the apathy of a 
former day. 

CHOLERA VISITATIONS. 

As is intimated, this decade dawned upon the county rich in fruition 
and promise. They were accepted and utilized, and that at a time when the 
inhabitants were on the eve of a calamity, in comparison with which war and 
famine can scarcely be mentioned. 

The Asiatic cholera made its first visitation to Stephenson County in 1850, 
again in 1852, and once more two years later. The first "epidemic" was 
limited to a few sporadic cases, and disappeared late in the season, without 
creating more than passing alarm. But it left its mark in the families from 
which members had laid down the burden of life and slept beneath the sod. 
When it repeated its calls in 1852, the people, immersed in business and agri- 
cultural pursuits, without taking thought of the morrow, not having been admon- 
ished by the hints dropped two years previous, were ill prepared for its advent. 
The health of the county was regarded as perfect, there being an exceptional 
freedom from the miasmatic maladies that had in early times prevailed, as sin- 
gular as it was gratifying. Nature smiled upon the landscape, and all the ele- 
ments combined to cultivate hope in the breasts of the people, who had for 
years toiled as the children of Israel, without reward or prospects. As the 
summer came, bringing with it the climatic excesses peculiar to the season, the 
disease began to manifest its presence in localities ordinarily healthful, as also 
subject to disease. The cases received prompt attention, but in the majority 
of instances terminated fatally. Remedies regarded as specifics for the malady 
produced no effect, the attack generally proving so violent that the system 
would become exhausted under its influence before the medicine could operate 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 285 

and induce reaction. Its origin could not be traced to any authentic cause, 
and its dissipation defied the efforts of physicians. Freeport was greatly 
afflicted, the deaths there reaching as high as eighteen in one day. Ridott 
Township, in the vicinity of Nevada, suffered grievously under the calls of the 
scourge, as did Kirkpatrick's Mills, and other points accessible to its approach. 
One gentleman, who was here in those days of tribulation, stated that there 
was scarcely a family on the old State road in which there was not one of its 
members down with the disease, dying or buried. Indeed, he represents the 
state of affairs as deplorable in the last degree. It may be imagined that dur- 
ing the existence of the plague, the inhabitants, terror-stricken at its approach 
and subsequent presence, with one accord fled from the wrath to come or when 
it rapped at his neighbor's door. This was not the case. Physicians and 
nm-ses for the sick were procurable at nearly all hours, and men and women 
attended to the calls of the dying and buried the dead with a tenderness and 
heroism which fully attested their Christian charity and spirit of self-sacrifice. 
Along in the fall, having run its course, the disease abated, and nothing of its 
visitation remained but the vacancies it had made in the home and by the fire- 
side, and the fresh-turned graves to be seen in the village churchyard. It 
looked in upon the people again in 1854, but left without repeating its observa- 
tions of 1852, and has since remained at an enchanting distance from this 
vicinity. 

During the prevalence of the epidemic, business came to a standstill both in 
towns and the county. The streets of the former evidenced the blight that had 
fallen upon the surroundings, and the highways of the latter bore confirmation 
thereof. As a result, some who had come into the county with bright hopes and 
brighter prospects, died or fled before its approach ; others en route or contem- 
plating coming, turned back or abandoned the trip and remained at home. The 
population thus practically diminished, and an apprehension of the return of 
the disease with many dismayed the coming of those who would have been here 
the following spring. 

COMPLETION OF THE C. & G. U. R. R. 

The building of the railroads was continued, however, notwithstanding 
these afflictions, and rapid progress was made on the lines having Freeport for 
their objective point. Early in the following year (1853) the Galena & Chicago 
Union had made such headway that contractors began laying the rails, and the 
people anticipated the whistle of the locomotive as an event of the near future. 
On the 23d of August a construction train crossed the Pecatonica and arrived 
in Freeport. This was the signal for enthusiastic rejoicings among merchants, 
farmers, and all, for all were interested in its success. These manifestations oi 
rejoicings but prefaced those evinced by the people when, on September 1 
following, passenger and freight trains were placed on the road, and the public 
were afforded means of communication they had longed for, prayed for, and 
extorted from soulless corporations and municipalities. 

The fight had been fought, the victory won, but not without the employ- 
ment of every available means and every accessible aid that could be invoked. 
The people saw everything that was made ; and behold, it was good. Those who 
had been instrumental in its procuration and completion, saw that it was good, 
and rejoiced also. A new era in the history of the county was born indeed. 
Thenceforward her career was upward and onward, without one interposing 
obstacle or one element that would prevail to prevent its advance. 



286 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

The benefits which accrued by the completion of this improvement were 
not altogether gradual nor insubstantial, but rather instant and permanent. The 
road was made the channel for an influx of emigration, in comparison with which 
the number who had come previously were as visitors. Lands increased in 
value beyond all precedent, and no one could escape the conclusion that Ste- 
phenson County, both from its geographical position and physical resources, 
would become one of the most populous and wealthy counties in the State. It 
is an interesting fact, and one beyond dispute, that no inland county in the 
State increased in population in a larger ratio during the ten years previous to 
the census taken in 1850. This was due to the causes cited; i. e., the supe- 
rior qualities of the soil for agricultural purposes, the abundance of timber, 
beautiful rolling prairies, excellent water, abundant water-power for manufact- 
uring purposes, and, general good health ; and, when the county and its towns 
became intimately connected with the rest of mankind, it was an event of no 
ordinary importance. 

For many years the citizens had been subjected to all the inconveniences 
of an imperfect business connection with the East, and had borne them patiently. 
The merchants had been compelled to transport their purchases made from 
farmers a distance of 120 miles over imperfect roads, and often met with loss in 
the sales effected. The farmers submitted to the same trials, intensified in some 
cases by the poverty of the victim. This state of things was now over, and the 
merchant and farmer were placed on an equal footing with contemporaries at 
the East. 

With increased facilities for business, men of capital visited the county, 
who invested and expended money in opening to the world and utilizing the 
almost inexhaustible resources that had remained undeveloped. This great 
agent of civilization and reform bound together distant portions of the country, 
made neighbors of those who would otherwise have remained strangers, harmo- 
nizing and mutualizing conflicting interests, and blending into one universal and 
harmonious effort, the desire and action of countries and communities for the 
realization of their highest and noblest hopes and aspirations. 

The Illinois Central was completed to Freeport early in September, and 
extended three miles beyond within a month. This was an additional incentive 
for rejoicing, and the people made much of it. As the county was benefited, 
so were the towns, and particularly the county seat. Freeport had been keeping 
pace with the time, growing with its growth, and strengthening with its strength. 
With no false excitement, calculated to throw her prosperity into the hands of 
speculators, the town had kept steadily on from a half a dozen houses, a few 
business men and a " gang of loafers," until her population at this period had 
increased from 1,036, in 1849, and 1,500, in 1850, to 3,000. This growth 
was not confined to an increase of inhabitants, but affected business and business 
accommodations. Instead of small store-rooms, with a peddler's pack of notions 
for stock, the town contained between thirty and forty large stores, some of 
them doing a business of between $30,000 and $40,000 per annum. In addition, 
there were churches and schools, not to mention saloons and kindred resorts, 
which, if they failed to testify to the quality of civilization encouraged, at least 
indicated its existence. 

Since the scream of the iron horse was first heard in the land, treasures of 
wealth and industry have been poured into the county, pointing out a present 
of usefulness and a future of greatness and prosperity. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 287 

EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES. 

The year 1855 marked the turning point in the history of common-school 
education in the State. The first school established in the county had been 
commenced nearly twenty years previous, when a very small class assembled at 
Ransomburg, and Miss Jane Goodhue sought the instruction of its members in 
a knowledge of the alphabet and words of two syllables. During the interven- 
ing period, labors in the cause of education had been constant and profitable. 
From this solitary class as a beginning, schools had been established all over 
the county, and were doing the work allotted them, as civilizers, effectively. 
The influence created by their existence and efforts had been of the most ben- 
eficent and extended character, and was enlisted without regard to minor details. 
But this was not brought about save by the indefatigable labors of zealous men. 
The schools in Stephenson County were at first supported by private subscrip- 
tion, and so continued for many years, or until the expenses incident thereto 
were provided for by legislative enactment. The Legislature of 1844 made 
some imperfect provision for maintaining the schools, which were supplemented 
by amendments in 1847, again in 1849, once more in 1851, and finally in 1855, 
when a law embracing all the essential principles of previous enactments was 
adopted. Among these was the sovereign right of the State to levy and collect 
a sufficient tax from the real and personal property within its jurisdiction, to 
be expended in furnishing its youth a common-school education. The tax, how- 
ever, proved oppressive to some counties, and this portion of the law was sought 
to be repealed, without results, for it remains the vital principle of that law 
to-day. As a consequence of this course, there is not a township in the county 
but what is supplied with one or more schools, in which scholars between the 
ages of six and twenty-one years can avail themselves of the privileges therein 
proffered. 

There were many causes, at first, to retard the progress of the present 
system, which, however, proceeding, as a rule, from a class of persons who are 
never found in the van of reform and are always opposed to experiment, because 
experiment involves change, was neither pronounced nor prolonged. An 
unfriendly disposition was manifested by some, who apprehended that the system 
was prematurely inaugurated, and the ability of the people too limited to pro- 
vide for its support. The fear of an annual assessment operated to restrain 
others from its enthusiastic support — the tax would be onerous and oppressive ; 
other opposition, it is said, existed, proceeding from caste; and the rebellion 
added materially to attracting from the system which, nevertheless, has obtained 
in Stephenson County not more satisfactorily than elsewhere. It has not 
accomplished everything that could be desired, yet, in view of the hindrances 
with which it has been beset, it has accomplished much, and as a public agency 
for the dissemination of knowledge, intelligence and virtue, it has commended 
its merit to opponents and supporters indiscriminately. 

The support of the schools, according to the act of 1855, and subsequent 
amendments, is derived, first, from the State fund created and maintained by 
the levy of certain assessments for educational purposes, upon the real and 
personal property listed in the State, which is paid out to schools pro rata, 
according to the number of children in each district less than twenty-one years 
old ; second, by a distribution of the interest of a township fund, derived from 
the sale of the sixteenth section in the township, the proceeds of which have 
been invested for this purpose. The amount necessary to the support of the 
schools, over and above that provided as above set forth, is made up by the 
Directors of the school district to be benefited, bv whom it is certified to 



288 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

the Township Treasurer, thence to the County Clerk, by whom the amount 
certified is levied upon the real and personal property of the district. 

The following statistical summary, for the year 1879, shows the result of 
common-school efforts in the county for that year : 

CENSUS OF MINORS. 

Number of males under twenty-one years of age 8,033 

Number of females under twenty-one years of age 8,021 

Whole number under twenty-one years of age 16,054 

SCHOOL CENSUS. 

Number of males between six and twenty-one 5,547 

Number of females between six and twenty-one 5,606 

Total 11,153 

SCHOOL DISTRICTS. 

Whole number of school districts 148 

Average number of months school sustained 6.88 

PUPILS IN ATTENDANCE. 

Number male pupils enrolled 4,363 

Number female pupils enrolled 4,329 

Total number enrolled 8,692 

TEACHERS. 

Total number male teachers 125 

Total number female teachers 166 

Total of teachers .' 291 

GRADED AND HIGH SCHOOLS. 

Number of graded schools 11 

Number of high schools 3 

Number of ungraded schools 141 

Number of private schools 5 

Total schools 160 

SCHOOLHOUSES. 

Number of stone schoolhouses 24 

Number of brick schoolhouses 31 

Number of frame schoolhouses 98 

Total number of schoolhouses 153 

ILLITEBACY. 

Whole number between the ages of twelve and twenty-one unable to read and 
write 10 

RECEIPTS. 

Balance on hand October 1, 1878 $21,237 45 

Amount of State and county funds received 13,460 54 

Amount of interest on township fund 2,797 64 

Amount of special district taxes 33,476 44 

Amount from sale of school property 77 75 

Amount from sale of district bonds 101 00 

Amount of railroad and other taxes 1,688 47 

Amount for tuition 183 71 

Amount from all other sources 200 00 

Total $73,223 00 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 289 

EXPENDITURES. 

Amount paid male teachers $18,976 07 

Amount paid female teachers 11,348 79 

Amount paid for new schoolhouses 966 27 

Amount paid for school sites and grounds 77 00 

Amount paid for furniture 352 32 

Amount paid for apparatus 62 45 

Amount paid for fuel and incidentals 4,599 10 

Amount paid Township Treasurers 1,214 76 

Amount paid interest on notes 97 33 

Amount paid principal of notes 655 66 

Amount paid for repairs and improvements 2,729 14 

Amount paid for other expenses 4,299 04 

Total $45,377 93 

Highest monthly wages paid male teacher $160 00 

Highest monthly wages paid female teacher 60 00 

Lowest monthly wages paid male teacher 18 00 

Lowest monthly wages paid female teacher 8 00 

Average monthly wages paid male teachers 39 65 

Average monthly wages paid female teachers 23 47 

Whole number of examinations for certificates held during the year 15 

Male applicants for first grade 15 

Male applicants for second grade f 141 

Female applicants for first grade 7 

Female applicants for second grade 209 

First-grade certificates issued 14 

Second-grade certificates issued 199 

Number of schools visited by Superintendent 141 

Grand total number of drays' attendance of pupils 750,295 

No course of study for the schools has been adopted, but much attention 
has been given to proper classification. While the schools are by n<3 means 
graded, yet there is a tendency on the part of teachers to systematize their 
work. There is almost a uniformity in text-books used in the different schools, 
which does much toward taking the place of a course of study. 

Instruction in most of the schools is confined to the common-school 
branches. Teachers are becoming more skilled in the use of text-books, and 
have abandoned that slavish system which consists in memorizing the text-books 
only. The aim in all work done is to make the pupil master of the elements of 
an education that will benefit him the most, and prepare him for the duties of 
■after life. In these efforts the teacher is yearly becoming more successful. 

During the past twenty years, county institutes have been held in various 
parts of the country. These have been faithfully conducted, and are among the 
most useful means employed for the teachers' improvement. They have ordi- 
narily continued one week, and the ablest talent to be found in the State has been 
usually called in to assist, and, though the attendance of teachers has never been 
made compulsory, the number present has varied from 100 to 160 at each session. 

This system was not deemed sufficient, and, in 1879, a Normal Institute was 
established, holding one term of four weeks, from July 14 of each year. The 
enrollment reached 128, and was attended with the most satisfactory results to 
all concerned. Township institutes have been conducted in a number of places 
in the county, all tending toward one great object— better teachers, and with 
them better schools. 

THE PANIC OF 1857. 

Such was the condition of affairs when the spring of 1857 aroused the 
inhabitants of the county from their season of hibernation to renewed labor, 
and a faith in the future intensified by experience. As spring graduated into 
summer and the heated term was drawing to its close, appearances failed to 



290 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

indicate the coming of the storm that threatened to involve the entire country in ruin. 
During the latter part of August, the suspension of the Life Insurance and 
Trust Company at Cincinnati, with liabilities quoted at five millions, came with 
unexpected suddenness, and created a havoc in financial ranks from which 
recovery has only been accomplished after years of industry, pluck and unmeas- 
ured confidence. This crash was succeeded by others, as is well known, with 
similar depressing and ruinous results. These warnings preceded the advance 
of the foe into the West, and caused people to reflect on what might be in store 
for them. There were many, doubtless, admonished by their prophetic souls of 
what was coming ; but, a majority, flattering their peace of mind with the 
thought that the city and county would escape unscathed, declined to outline 
their connections regarding impending troubles until too late to provide any 
remedy to mitigate their severity. There were some, however, who saw the 
horizon dark and portentous with the coming storm, and put their house in 
order to resist its violence. When it came, as a consequence, if not protected 
entirely, they were sufficiently so as to escape permanent paralysis. 

Its immediate presence was first manifested by the falling-off in trade, the 
absence of new arrivals, the depreciation in property values, and other insignias 
of coming calamities which, though strange to the West and her people, carried 
with them a dread of what was to follow in their wake. Soon after, more pro- 
nounced symptoms were to be observed. Lots and lands were without markets, 
and none but the choicest of either was worth the cost of assessment. Vision- 
aries, who had dwelt in castles constructed by fancy, fled from the scene of 
their creations, appalled at the storm which they had aided in provoking. Sub- 
stantial merchants, who heard the muttering, hastily, and in every instance 
when it*was too late, sought to take their latitude and ascertain how far they could 
be driven from their true course and yet survive. Nearer and nearer approached 
the crisis, closer and closer came the advance of that intangible agency, which 
was to wreck so many hopes, strand so many enterprises and commit the fruits 
of years of labor to an adversity both remediless and hopeless. 

The crash succeeded these premonitions of its coming, and carried all 
before it. Hundreds were irretrievably ruined in an hour, and men who felic- 
itated themselves upon the possession of resources, ascertained, when beyond 
salvation, that these resources were unavailable. Some survived, but the 
majority went down in the storm, and were heard of no more. 

The events which followed this crisis are familiar to many who are alive 
to-day. Gloom and discouragement usurped the places of hope and prosperity. 
Farm lands were cultivated only that the necessaries of life might be harvested. 
In some remote instances they lay idle. There was no money in the country, 
and this absence of a circulating medium prevented the sale of the crops. Mer- 
chants, for similar reasons, were unable to buy or sell commodities, and the 
most terrible distresses followed, threatening almost permanent poverty, if 
not complete annihilation. In 1861, when the war broke out, there was a 
brief revival of business and exchange for a season, which gave a temporary 
impetus to trade, but in a brief time business resumed its sluggish channel. 
Thus were cast the lines of life in Stephenson County — not in pleasant places, 
truly. 

Inquiry was instituted to discover, if possible, the cause of these unfor- 
tunate effects, and the endeavor made to ascertain if their recurrence could be 
prevented. In all former revulsions, it was reasoned, the blame might be fairly 
attributed to a variety of co-operating causes, but not in the case under con- 
sideration. There were no patent reasons for the failures, of which that of the 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 291 

trust company was the beginning, a failure unequaled in its extent and dis- 
astrous results since the collapse of the United States Bank. Reasonings in- 
duced the conclusion that the ruin which at one time hung over the country 
and the people, was due almost entirely to the system of paper currency and 
bank credits, exciting wild speculations and gambling in stocks. So long as 
the amount of the paper currency, bank loans and discounts of the country 
should be left to the discretion of irresponsible banking institutions, which, from 
the very law of their nature, consult the interests of the stockholders rather 
than the public, a repetition of these experiences would come at intervals. 
This had been the financial history of the country for years. It had been a 
history of extravagant expansions followed by ruinous contractions. At suc- 
cessive intervals the most enterprising men had been tempted to their ruin by 
bank loans of mere paper credit, exciting them to speculations and ruinous and 
demoralizing stock operations. In a vain endeavor to redeem their liabilities 
in specie, they were compelled to contract their loans and their issues, and when 
their assistance was most needed, they and their debtors sank into insolvency. 

Deplorable, however, as were the prospects, the people indulged in bright 
hopes for the future. No other nation ever existed which could have endured 
such violent expansions and contractions of the currency, and live. But the 
buoyancy of youth, the energies of the people, and the spirit which never quails 
before difficulties, enabled the country to recover from this financial embarrass- 
ment. Its coming was long delayed, but it came at last and dissipated the 
troubles existent, without permitting the people to forget the lesson these 
troubles inculcated. 

The wheat crop of 1861 was sold for gold and silver, and, though the price 
paid was comparatively less than was expected, it was the beginning of the end of 
the crisis. As the war continued, and fresh levies were made upon the State 
and county, the demand for supplies increased proportionately, and necessitated 
their production. The demand augmented almost with every month, until in 
1863 it had become so generous that it seemed as if the denials and privations 
of the people were about to yield precedence to days of plenty. The crops were 
constantly on the move, money became easier, and merchants experienced diffi- 
culty in keeping pace with the wants of their customers. Lands increased in 
value, and the area upon which cultivation had been wholly or in part aban- 
doned, was replanted and harvested with profit. The towns also revived under 
these benign influences, and that better days had come indeed, was a conclusion 
both cheerful and universal. 

The experiences through which this people passed in these years of woe, 
were not, however, without results to the county and city, which have proved 
advantageous and beneficial. Speculators, adventurers, soldiers of fortune and 
visionaries were weeded out. The dross was separated from the pure gold ; the 
country was shorn of its superficial inhabitants, and men only remained, consoling 
compensations for the ruin that had been wrought, who are motive powers 
by which communities are sustained and characters for manhood and integrity 
created. 

The decade in which were included occurrences of which mention has been 
made, consisted of a series of years, characterized by events, as has been 
seen, which tended to the civilization of the age, the education of the world by 
example, and the discipline of humanity by experience. Commencing at a 
period in the history of Stephenson County, when the days of trial were yield- 
ing place to more auspicious seasons, running the gauntlet of an experience both 
varied and checkered, and closing amid surroundings calculated both to encourage 



292 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

and approve, illustrates how nations, peoples and communities, like indi- 
viduals, are subject to causes and motions, to results and promises, as unex- 
pected as they are gratifying, and as incomprehensible as they are irresistible. 

The ensuing ten years were passed in war and rumors of war by the nation, 
in which the county, through its volunteers, enacted the role assigned them in 
this drama for real life, with a fidelity that has commanded perpetual applause. 
When the war began its initial struggles with peace, not a few of those who 
subsequently became identified with the contest, hoped for a peaceable solution 
of the difficulties that threatened to result in separation, and discouraged the 
expectation of war. The maintenance of the Union and enforcement of the 
laws was urged without dissent, but many believed that these objects cculd be 
better accomplished by the employment of influences other than those sought 
to be invoked. 

During these inaugural struggles a temporal prosperity was shadowed in 
the near future, and, notwithstanding the signs of depression apparent in every 
department of local progress, this promise was not without a prospect of realiza- 
tion at an early day. Business to some extent was restored, but it was up-hill 
work, and enterprises hesitated before development, with more of apprehension 
than had ever before been felt. Emigration had come in with the railroads years 
previous, and the county was generally settled ; yet increased facilities for trade 
and an extended territory only partially roused business men from their coma 
condition of despondency, and but partially revived corporations that had 
become lifeless through inactivity and embarrassments. What a contrast to 
ten years before ! " 'Twas Greece, but living Greece no more." The contrast 
struck a chill into many a saddened heart, and not a few, still revolving the 
changed condition of affairs, turned themselves adrift, " the wide world before 
them where to choose." 

When the surrender of Sumter cut off all hope of compromising the exist- 
ing differences and compelled a decision as to what side should command their 
support, the people of Stephenson County, like the rushing of a mighty wind, 
became united in their tender of support to the Federal authorities. There was 
no half-way sympathy and love manifested for the Union ; it was united and 
complete. Treason was made odious ; its toleration not permitted. The war 
brought with it, at home and in the field, the same features witnessed elsewhere. 
The lives of the citizens were cast in patriotic grooves ; pronounced in the sup- 
port of the cause, in procuring the enlistment of troops ; and all that loyal 
impulse prompted or could accomplish was done to remind the volunteers that 
those who remained behind were waiting and watching on their return. The 
soldiers who left their lives on the field of battle, in the hospitals or prisons, in 
putting off the corruptible and assuming the immortal, are not forgotten, but 
remembered as their forms seem to fade away through the gloaming when the 
sunlight filters through green leaves and hazy clouds. 

'Tis now a score of years since a war for the perpetuation of a nation 
" conceived in liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created 
free and equal," was commenced and fought to the end. The lessons taught 
have been as varied as the races which mingled in the contest. They are not 
confined in their benefits to States, districts or counties; but every locality 
inhabited by Americans is vested with the admonitions they embody. The 
people and the army, in which Illinois, Stephenson County and the towns within 
her borders, were prominent integers, are truly celebrated, less so for the sup- 
pression of war equally disastrous as the invasion of foreign levies, than for exter- 
minating in America the causes which precipitated its advent and continuance. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 293 

The effects of the war were to increase the volume of business in this 
vicinity, creating demands for future consignments, and supplying resources for 
the revival and conducting of business. There was no immigration into the 
county worthy of mention immediately after the close of the last act in the 
bloody drama at Appomattox Court House, where the Confederate Government 
became a thing of the past, and for years the places of soldiers who came not 
back were left unfilled. Emigrants and speculators passed by on the roads 
which pass through the county, but, instead of halting, pushed onward to the 
gold fields of Colorado, deeming the uncertainties of a life amid the surroundings 
of wealth, the procurement of which was a " lottery," with associations which are 
measured by their excesses rather than their absence, far preferable to comfort, 
contentment, and a moderate income on the borders of civilization. 

When peace resumed dominion over the entire country, many of the 
evils that follow in the wake of war were far from dissipated, and if not miti- 
gated by the influences its coming exerted, were at least tempered. There were 
towns in the county which had sprung into existence with the railroads ; in these, 
the breaking out of the war caused the suspension of operations. If none of 
these retrograded, none improved to any appreciable extent ; and, if none 
amassed wealth, none contracted liabilities which involved them in bankruptcy. 
After the war, building was resumed and trade increased. Elevators were 
erected, banks established, operators from abroad came in, and these, with other 
combinations, laid the foundation for shipments of cereals and live-stock, that 
have grown into a magnitude and importance that can scarcely be approxi- 
mated. 

Freeport, more benefited by the war in limine, experienced more sensibly 
the effects of the reaction when the "flush " of trade was over. The drain 
upon its resources, as a result of the panic, had not been fully balanced, and 
the " spurt" in business the war excited, though temporary, was sufficient to, in 
a measure, compensate for the long season of dullness and inactivity, then at 
its height. From thence on trade gradually revived, until it boomed in 1865 
when soldiers returned with money. Considerable was put in circulation by them, 
and a suspicion that hard times had gone away to return no more was generally 
indulged. 

Improvements were made all over the county between 1860 and 1870, and 
of a superior order in every particular. The houses are patterns of comfort, 
being composed of brick and frame, and the beauty and finish of the surround- 
ings are only surpassed by the domestic felicities found within doors. 

The system of agriculture had undergone great changes since the days 
when the farmer cultivated four acres of ground and harvested his crop for 
home consumption, and these changes are not completed in this day, either. 
Mechanical skill and genius had conspired to place the farmer in as independ- 
ent an attitude with regard to the cost of labor and, consequently, productions, as 
the manufacturer. He ploughed, sowed, cultivated, reaped, bound, stacked and 
thrashed with machinery. Money that was paid to hands for performing these 
various duties ten years before, was then appropriated to the cultivation of the 
farm and supplying it with superior strains of blood for the improvement of 
stock, for the erection and furnishing of commodious homes, the education of 
the young idea, and the many other purposes which for years had been denied 
the people by reason of their inability to pay therefor. 

Throughout the county, while private enterprise had not been delayed, 
public improvements became equally as numerous and valuable. Roads were 
opened, graded and made available, streams "dammed" or drained as the 



294 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

necessities of trade or health demanded, railroad enterprises inaugurated and 
carried to a finality, and other advances made along the line of progress. 

The system of education adopted in 1855, was working with benefits to all 
who came within the circle of its influence, and the cause of religion was ably 
sustained, both in the city and county. 

Politically, the county became more pronouncedly Republican with each 
succeeding year. In early days, as has been noted, the Whig and Democratic 
parties were the rival organizations, under whose direction the political affairs 
of the county were manipulated. This continued without change until 1856,. 
when the birth of the Republican party absorbed a majority of the Whig element, 
together with a limited number of anti-slavery Democrats. These successors 
to the organizations of the old regime flourished up to the breaking out of the 
war with varying success. During the continuance of that struggle the Repub- 
lican party gained a very decided ascendancy, notwithstanding the Democrats 
maintained strict party lines. Some opposition was manifested by the latter 
while the contest lasted, but it never-became organized, and obtained no decided 
prominence in the community. Since the war the Republicans have remained 
in the ascendant, and to-day control the offices, influence and patronage in the 
county, by a majority estimated at 500. 

The inhabitants of the county are composed of the best classes of all 
nationalities. The farmers are intelligent, scientific workers, as a rule inde- 
pendent, with many of them wealthy, cultivating from 160 to 700 acres of 
land, and raising crops which command ready sale and at the best market rates. 
The merchants are enterprising, substantial, responsible and honorable men, 
who add to the character of the population not less than to the wealth of the 
communities in which they reside. The professions are represented by men of 
dignity, capacity and intelligence, many of whom have won distinction on the 
bench, where their opinions have shed a luster upon the pages of jurisprudence in 
Illinois, and at the bar, where their reasoning power and superior judgment have 
commanded admiration ; as physicians, whose advice and opinions have been 
accepted as authority on the subject-matter to which they relate; as ministers 
of the gospel, whose charity illustrates the greatest of virtues ; as editors, the 
conservators of public opinion and public morality ; and in the less prominent 
walks of life, her citizens have evinced the possession of those characteristics 
which constitute the composition of men who make a State. 

During the past ten years the new court house has been completed and 
occupied, and improvements of great value and utility supplied the place of 
imperfect machinery. Railroads and highways afford easy access to the East, 
West, North and South, and all things have combined to render the happiness 
and prosperity of the people universal. 

One can hardly realize the changes that have been wrought in this section 
of Northern Illinois in less than a half-century. A brief interval has elapsed 
since the county was a wilderness inhabited by the Indians; where the county 
seat now stands was located the village of Winneshiek and his tribe. A 
remarkable, indeed miraculous, change has come since then, due in part to the 
careful and laborious thrift of the people, as also to the broad-gauge principle 
upon which business is conducted. The golden-clad fields, laden at this season 
of the year with plenteous harvests, indicate the fertility of the soil, and how 
Nature has endowed these broad prairies. Nor has she been sparing in her con- 
tributions of beautiful scenery; a more exquisite panorama than is to be seen 
from eligible points in Stephenson County, the eye never rested upon. From 
elevations in West Point Township a more delightful landscape can scarcely be 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. . 297 

imagined; stretching away to the south and west are a range of mounds, cross- 
ing Apple River to Galena; in the extreme west Sinsiniwa Mound lifts its head, 
crowned with age ; to the northwest a range of hills, in which the glistening 
ore of commerce is said to lie imbedded ; away to the north a line of mounds 
greets the gaze, while off toward Mineral Point lies a belt of woodland, defining 
the course of the Pecatonica. 

With railroad facilities for communication with the East and North and 
South, the county is placed in direct connection with markets and places of 
resort, as also in a position with refei'ence to the future that admits of no mis- 
understanding. Banks and commercial establishments flourish where once the 
Indian met in council, and farms are cultivated where once he pursued the 
fleeing game. 

So, too, in moral, intellectual and educational improvements, the people 
have kept pace with the times. Churches, schools, libraries and other avenues 
of improvement are open to the admission of all who may seek their portals, acces- 
sible to whomsoever may apply for permission to avail himself of the privileges. 

The old settlers of to-day are scarcely able to realize the changes that 
have been made and the improvements completed since they first came into this 
new country, when they were younger than they are now. The past rises up 
before them in characters of life-like fidelity, reminding them of days long since 
moldering with the dead, and of friends years ago entombed in Mother Earth. 
Again they are at their place of birth, the home of their nativity, sanctified by 
a mother's presence and a mother's love. They are carried back to the dav, 
when, cutting loose from that home and its sacred associations, they took up the 
burden of life and began their weary pilgrimage across its sands and drifts. 
They recall the day when, weary and footsore, but exuberant with youth and 
hope and determination, they came upon the scene, and, gazing out upon the 
landscape, rejoiced at the spectacle which greeted their vision. The scene 
itself is pictured to them as they saw it then, in all the exquisite beautv of its 
rural simplicity; immense forests, wherein the foot of man ne'er left its im- 
press; boundless prairies, flowing in the colors of variegated blossoms. No 
genial spirit welcomed them to the hospitalities of a home, no cheerful notes of 
gladness were sounded at their approach. The stillness of solitude, and soli- 
tude itself, alone awaited their acceptance and guarded them against the advance 
of human foes. 

But the wand of progress touches the wilderness, and it falls never to hop e 
more. It touches the rolling prairies, and they are changed into fruitful fields ; 
it touches the solitudes and peoples them with a race whose career has been 
marked with success at every mile-stone on the route. What a change, what 
a wonderful change, has been worked by the ingenuity and industry of man ! 
The forest has yielded precedence, and the wilderness become sources of wealth. 
The rolling prairie has been converted into productive fields, and the harvest 
song is heard where once the war-cries of the savages resounded. 

The past ten years have been years of profit to the county and its inhab- 
itants. Buildings have gone up, improvements concluded and much been accom- 
plished. The county has had little to discourage its advance during the past 
ten years less to prevent a full and complete fruition in the future. The 
county is completely out of debt, with resources almost unlimited, and of an 
excellence beyond comparison. The prosperity that came with time was accom- 
panied by refining influences also ; and the county, having passed that period 
in the history of great endeavors when failure is to be apprehended, is drawing 
nearer and nearer unto a perfect day. 



298 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

COUNTY BUILDINGS. 

Court House. — On the 6th of December, 1837, Hon. Thomas J. Turner,, 
since deceased, at that time a carpenter and joiner, concluded a contract with 
Lemuel W. Streeter, Isaac G. Forbesand Julius Smith, County Commissioners, 
to build a court house and jail on the site of the present edifice, in the square 
bounded by Stephenson street, Galena avenue, Bridge and Van Buren streets. 
During the winter of 1837-38, the timbers for the old court house were hewn in> 
the woods, under the immediate supervision of Julius Smith. These completed, 
the same were " framed " and erected, standing from 1838 to 1870, and, with 
the exception of the sill beneath the front door, which had long been exposed to- 
the weather, not a timber decayed. That plain old temple of justice, when 
built, surpassed in size and elegance all other buildings west of Detroit and 
north of St. Louis, but long since the county outgrew it, and, like some of the 
old settlers, it was obliged to take up the line of march to humbler quarters. 
Within its bar, in early times, gathered men whose names have become histori- 
cal, including Thomas Drummond. Joseph L. Hoge, Thompson Campbell, 
Joseph Knox, James L. Loop, Jason Marsh, Martin P. Sweet, Sefch B. Farwell, 
Benjamin R. Sheldon and others, the latter presiding therein as Circuit Judge 
for the space of twenty years. 

This old building served its purpose well until advancing civilization, 
increased prosperity and population demanded that the abode of justice should 
be somewhat in harmony with the surroundings, when steps were inaugurated 
which were concluded with the erection of the present edifice. 

On the 27th of April, 1869, the first practicable movement was made 
toward the object in hand. The Board of Supervisors at that time was made 
up of Ralph Sabin, A. A. Babcock, Charles H. Rosenstiel, John M. Williams,. 
George Osterhout, J. A. Grimes, John Burrell, C. F. Mayer, H. H. Becker, 
Francis Boeke, James McFatrick, S. K. Fisher, Peter Marlin, James A. Tem- 
pleton, H. 0. Frankeberger, Andrew Hinds and Samuel Wilber, and, on 
motion, the committee appointed to receive plans and specifications was con- 
tinued, with instructions to procure the same for a new court house at an 
expense not to exceed $80,000. 

At the next session of the board, the plans and specifications of E. E. 
Myers were adopted, and on February 22, 1870, the committee reported that it 
had closed a contract to erect the new court house with A. Walbaum & Co. t 
which was also adopted, and the chairman authorized to execute the contract 
on behalf of the people. On the 23d of April following, S. K. Fisher, Ralph 
Sabin, George Osterhout, A. P. Goddard, Peter Marlin and Andrew Hinds 
were appointed the Building Committee, and arrangements were completed for 
the laying of the corner-stone, which occurred during the summer of the same 
year. From that event no delay in the building was experienced, the same 
being labored upon uninterruptedly until its dedication on the 22d of February, 
1873, after which the undertaking was delivered into the hands of the county 
authorities complete in every particular, and costing a total for building and 
furnishing, of $130,413.56. 

The design was furnished by E. E. Myers, of Springfield, 111. The style 
of architecture should properly be called American, and the artist has dis- 
played an exquisite taste in blending the different styles to combine the useful 
and ornamental, and to give the whole the appearance of grandeur both simple 
and bold. The building is of stone, from the crystalline marble quarries, 
99x80, four stories high, including basement, which is six feet above grade 
line, the upper story being known as the Mansard or French style. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 299 

The entrance fronting on Stephenson street, is reached by a flight of marble 
steps, and opens into a lobby, thence to corridors, leading to the Clerk's, 
Recorder's, Sheriff's and Treasurer's offices, County Court room and Board of 
Supervisors. A broad, open flight of stairs leads to the next floors above, on 
which are located the State's Attorney's, Surveyor's and other offices, together 
with the Circuit Court room. The style adopted in the interior finish of the 
building is Corinthian, the wood finish being walnut with white ash inlaid. 
The Circuit Court room is 56x76 and 28 feet high, frescoed in oil, and finished 
in the highest style of the art. From this floor two flights of stairs lead to 
the upper story, which comprehends six rooms, designed for consultation and 
jury rooms, and from this floor the dome is reached, containing the clock, and 
affording to visitors an unsurpassed view of the surrounding country. 

The clock was placed in the tower by A. W. Ford immediately upon its 
completion, and is conveniently accessible to those who desire to see it in 
motion. It weighs 2,000 pounds, with a pendulum eight and a half feet 
long, and weights necessary to running the clock aggregating 950 pounds. 
It was built by Seth Thomas & Sons, of Connecticut, and is famous not only 
for its beauty and finish, but also for its regularity and accurate time. 
The bell was also furnished by A. W. Ford, from the foundry of E. A. & G. R. 
Meneley, of Troy, N. Y. ; weighs 1850 pounds,, and is of superior tone. 

The old court house still remains intact, occupying the northwest cor- 
ner of Clay and Adams streets, where it is used as a tobacco warehouse. The 
new court house is a source of admiration to strangers as well as citizens, and 
is in truth and in deed a temple of justice, where the rights of the widow and 
orphan are guarded, and the heritage left them by the dead is saved from the 
avarice of the living. No bonds were ever issued, and no debt hangs over the 
county for the cost of its erection. No law-suits or entanglements have grown 
out of the work, and none can or will, as everything was fully settled and 
adjusted on the day when its formal dedication took place. 

County Jail. — The first jail erected in the county was that, doubtless, 
built under the supervision of Thomas J. Turner, under his contract made with 
the County Commissioners in 1839. The building was commenced during the 
same year, but remained incomplete and so uninhabitable for some time that 
the citizens were often obliged to shoulder their guns and stand guard, to pre- 
vent the escape of prisoners. It was built of logs, after the most primitive, not 
to say original, style of architecture, and occupied the present site of the high 
school, where it remained until the actual necessities of the case compelled the 
authorities to seek more commodious and secure quarters. In early days, 
counterfeiters, horse-thieves and the felonious scum, it might be said, indige- 
nous to a new settlement, were here in force, and, as a consequence, the little 
log jail was almost constantly filled to repletion with these classes of citizens, 
awaiting trial or transportation. The jail was the reverse of secure, and its 
occupants the opposite of obtuse, and upon every occasion they made it apparent 
to the freeholders about Freeport that, unless extraordinary diligence was prac- 
ticed, the building could not be held responsible for the retention of those incar- 
cerated. This knowledge led to the organization of a " night watch," it is 
said, who paced their beats about the jail at an hour when graveyards yawn, as 
a security against being revisited and depredated upon by those who were tem- 
porarily immured in its Chillon-like dungeons. In time, this was relieved of 
that spice of variety it added to frontier life, and the decision was made to 
remove into a stone jail, to the rear of the present structure, corner of Bridge 
street and Galena avenue. Possession was taken thereof as soon as the 



300 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

premises could be adapted to the occupation of criminals, and, as it was deemed 
impossible to escape from, no thought was taken of the possible repetition of 
experiences suffered in the log jail. For some years this flattering unction 
was enjoyed, when a lapse in the habits of the officers, or inability of the prem- 
ises to longer retain the prisoner panting for liberty, caused a ripple of excite- 
ment, and induced a conclusion in the minds of citizens that in the jail con- 
struction things were not entirely as they seemed. Some fault existed which 
demanded immediate correction. Whatever this may have been, it was, pre- 
sumably, corrected, for no more complaints proceeding from similar causes arose, 
until recent years, when drafts upon the confidence of people in the stability 
and reliability of the "little stone jug" became so numerous and heavy that 
they were finally dishonored, in 1875. During the fall of that year, an exodus 
from the jail prompted the Supervisors to act decisively, at a meeting of that 
body convened on November 4, of that year, when a resolution for the build- 
ing of a new jail, to cost a sum not exceeding $35,000, was adopted nem con. 
This being passed, a committee, consisting of Andrew Hinds, F. A. Darling, 
John Erfert and J. H. Pierce, were appointed to procure specifications, and 
authorized to visit Rockford, Joliet, Dixon and a superior structure at Monroe, 
Wis., and, from their observations at these points, formulate plans to be 
employed in the construction of a jail that should be absolutely proof against 
the attempts of inmates. The visits were extended and the observations made, 
but the committee's report was without recommendation. 

Thereupon a contract was made with W. H. Myers, of Fort Wayne, Ind., 
for the building of the jail, which was undertaken, completed and occupied 
during 1876. The building is erected from plans furnished by T. J. Tolan & 
Son, architects, also of Fort Wayne, and is certainly as handsome, architect- 
urally, as it is represented as being substantial. It is built of brick and stone, 
contains the Sheriff's home and County Jail, and is an ornament to the city, 
as also an honor to the taste and skill of the builders. The jail proper is com- 
pleted in stone, containing accommodations for fourteen prisoners, and is every 
way comfortable and secure. The premises cost, completed, $40,553, and a 
glance at their arrangements will preclude a suspicion as to their strength, 
durability and security. 

The County Poor- House. — One of the first matters disposed of after the 
county of Stephenson had been set apart and organized, was provision for the 
poor and afflicted. At an early day a home was established for mendicants, in 
what now is Silver Creek Township, about two miles south of the city, which 
was occupied by paupers and the insane until February, 1859. 

On the night of Friday, February 28, of that year, the poor house was 
burned to the ground, and Lavina Kohn, one of the inmates, met a horrible 
death, while Elizabeth Smiley, also a pauper, was badly burned. The fire, it 
seems, originated in the room occupied by Lavina Kohn, who, on account of the 
impossibility of restraining, was placed in an apartment by herself, under lock 
and key. The evening of the fire, Mrs. Wilson, the Matron, made her rounds of 
the building, previous to retiring, and found everything secure. Some time 
after, the alarm was sounded, and being without effective means for subduing 
the flames, the building was destroyed, entailing a loss of $3,523.95, upon which 
there was no insurance. 

The Board of Supervisors convened on March 1, and adopted a resolu- 
tion providing for the issue of $4,000 in bonds, to be appropriated to the 
rebuilding of the premises. The same were begun at once, completed in time, 
and are still used. The almshouse proper is a large two-story stone structure, 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 301 

containg seven rooms and a dining-hall on the first floor, with ten apartments 
on the floor above. To the rear of this is the insane department, being con- 
structed of brick, 30x45, one story high, and containing ten cells. In 1872 the 
board caused the erection of a commodious dwelling house, to the north of the 
main building, which is used for residence purposes by the Superintendent. 
The whole are located on a farm of 160 acres, forty of which are cultivated for 
the benefit of the corporation, the balance being rented out, the rental being 
one-third of that produced thereon. 

The charity is supported by the townships, which are charged the actual 
(jost of support of those sent them by the Supervisor thereof. The expenses 
incident to maintaining the poor house, including a salary of $750 paid Jacob S. 
Reisinger, Superintedent, are estimated at $3,500 per annum. 

STEPHENSON COUNTY SOCIETY OF PHYSICIANS AND SURGEONS 

was organized on the 10th day of July, 1878, the lineal descendant of the 
Stephenson County Medical Society. The latter was established in 1865, and 
for some few years its affairs were conducted regularly. In time, the attendance 
became small, duties were neglected, and the society, being unable to rally suf- 
ficient members to constitute a quorum, lapsed into forgetfulness. 

In June, 1878, the question of reviving the old society or creating a new 
organization from its wreck, was generally canvassed among the profession 
throughout the county, which ended in the convening of meetings to take meas- 
ures looking to the latter object. At the date above mentioned, a meeting 
was held in the Supervisor's office, court house building, Dr. C. M. Hillebrand 
presiding, Louis Stoskopf officiating as Secretary, when a constitution and 
by-laws were adopted after debate, and the following officers elected and mem- 
bers signed the roster of membership : F. W. Hance, M. D., President ; L. A. 
Mease, M. D., Vice President ; Louis Stoskopf, M. D., Secretary and Treas- 
urer ; Drs. Claries Brundage, Buena Vista; L. A. Mease, F. W. Hance, 
and Louis Stoskopf, Freeport ; I. P. Fishburn and S. K. Martin, Dakota ; E. 
A. Carpenter, Baileyville ; C. B. Wright Florence, and T. L. Carey, Lena. 

The present officers are : Louis Stoskopf, M. D., President ; L. G. Voigt, 
M. D., Vice President and B. H. Bradshaw, M. D., Secretary and Treasurer. 

The membership is now stated at fifteen, and meetings are held quarterly, 
at such place as the President shall designate. 

STEPHENSON COUNTY FARMERS' CO-OPERATIVE ASSOCIATION 

was organized at a meeting of agriculturists, held at the court house on 
August 3, 1875, and incorporated soon after under an act of the Legislature 
providing therefor. The objects of the association are stated to be those of buy- 
ing, manufacturing and selling such articles and implements as are used or 
needed by the farmer ; also to sell, ship or exchange their products in the mar- 
kets of the world. The capital stock was placed at $6,000, represented by six 
hundred shares, and the duration of the corporate existence was limited to 
ninety-nine years. 

At the first election of officers, Ira Crippen was chosen President, H. S. 
Blakeway, Treasurer, and J. M. Chambers, Secretary, with Ira Crippen, H. S. 
Blakeway, W. P. Miller, J. F. Strunk, and Hiram Snyder as the Board of 
Directors, and at a meeting convened October 6, 1875, the business of the 
county Grange, similar in character, was purchased by the Farmers' Associa- 
tion. The latter 's officers took possession of the Grange warehouse, at the 
southwest corner of Adams and Stephenson streets, obtained a complete supply 



302: HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

of agricultural implements, and opened business with a flattering promise of 
success. 

So abundantly was this promise realized, that the capital stock was increased 
to $16,000, and other steps taken to accommodate the increase of business. 
About this time, the owners of the premises occupied insisted on an advance in 
the rent. The association declined to accede to this demand, and decided to 
erect a building adapted to the uses of its trade. Accordingly, a lot on the 
southeast corner of Adams and Stephenson streets was purchased of J. H. 
Haines for $5,000, and the erection of the present edifice commenced early in 
the spring of 1877. Before its completion, however, their lease expired, and' 
the business of the society was transferred to the " curb," where it continued 
until May, when possession of the new quarters was taken, and where the farm- 
ers, co-operatively inclined, have sold and purchased from that date to the 
present time. 

The building is a substantial three-story brick, 60x110, finished in a neat 
but inexpensive manner, and cost an aggregate of $11,000. The ground floor 
is occupied as an office and warehouse, the upper floors by an agricultural 
implement exhibition hall, 40x50, also a society hall of the same dimensions, 
equipped and furnished, and a commercial school. 

The present officers are : Ira Crippen, President ; Daniel Musser, Vice 
President ; J. M. Chambers, Secretary ; William Bear, Treasurer, and John ' 
Hart, Agent. Annual meetings are held in January, when the election of offi- 
cers is had, also meetings of the Board of Directors, which are convened quarterly. 

The corporation own property worth $20,000, carry stock valued at 
$25,000, and hol,d stock of the organization representing a valuation of 
$30,000. 

STEPHENSON COUNTY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY, 

an association which, up to very recent date, has been prominent in the 
county, was organized as a private corporation, in 1852, by a number of agri- 
culturists and horticulturists, who believed in the encouragement of their sev- 
eral arts. Immediately preparations were concluded for the holding of a county 
fair, which was held and attended with so gratifying a success that the experi- 
ment was repeated annually until 1861. That year, and in 1862, its grounds 
were occupied for the quartering of troops, which monopoly prevented exhibi- 
tions being given, and the society remained quiescent. These were resumed, 
however, in 1863, and have been continued with varying success until the 
present season. 

In 1871, the society became incorporated under the State laws, changed 
its title to the "Stephenson County Agricultural Board," and received sub- 
scriptions of stock to the amount of $8,000. The grounds were enlarged and 
improved, the buildings thereon located being reconstructed and redecorated, 
and every effort made to conquer a success of the undertaking. Regular 
exhibits were given until 1877, when the grounds were appropriated to the uses 
of the State Fair Expositions, and again in 1878. 

In 1879, a fair was held on the Taylor Driving Park, and, though begun 
under the most favorable auspices, was so seriously interfered with by rain that 
the society was unable to liquidate the demands of exhibitors entitled to premi- 
ums. In addition to this, an indebtedness had been created by improvements 
made in 1875, and, being without funds, the grounds, consisting of about thirty 
acres, located in the southwestern portion of the city, were disposed of by sale, 
Jere Pattison and Capt. William Young becoming the purchasers. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 303 

The society to-day, is without a home of its own, but, as soon as the 
•circumstances will warrant their doing so, the stockholders design effecting a 
re-organization. 

The present officers are William Young, President ; Godfrey Vought, 
Vice-President ; Jacob Krohn, Treasurer, and William Trembor, Secretary. 

STEPHENSON COUNTY PATRONS OF HUSBANDRY. 

This association of agriculturists, for mutual protection and improvement, 
was formally organized about the 20th of February, 1874, though granges now 
"tributary, had been in active operation previous to that date. The charter offi- 
cers were Daniel Musser, President ; W. P. Miller, Treasurer, and J. M. 
Chambers, Secretary. 

At present the grange consists of thirteen working lodges, with a total 
membership of 260, and the following officers : Daniel Musser, President ; F. 

B. Walker, Treasurer, and A. A. Stamm, Secretary. The initiation fee is $3 
for males, and 50 cents for females, with annual fees of $1.20. 

The headquarters of the grange are at Freeport. The subordinate lodges 
meet monthly, the County Grange quarterly and annually. 

OLD SETTLERS' ASSOCIATION. 

On Thursday, December 16, 1869, a meeting of old settlers was held at 
the court house in Freeport, to take measures for the organization of a society 
of old settlers residing in Stephenson County, and to provide ways and means 
for a social re-union of those who became citizens of Stephenson County prior 
to 1850. 

D. A. Knowlton was called to preside, and L. W. Guiteau officiated as 
Secretary. After a general interchange of views, a committee, consisting of the 
following gentlemen, was appointed to make arrangements for the re-union, as 
also to further the object for which the meeting had been convened, after which, 
an adjournment until Saturday evening following, was carried : James Turn- 
bull and Samuel Gunsaul, Winslow ; Levi Robey and Samuel K. Fisher, 
Waddams ; Luman Montague and Thomas French, West Point ; Williard P. 
Naramore and Jacob Gable, Kent ; Andrew Hinds and Bissell P. Belknap, 
Oneco ; John H. Addams and James M. Smith, Buckeye ; Robert Bell and 
William B. Mitchell, Lancaster ; Calvin Preston and Samuel Chambers, Rock 
Grove ; S. E. M. Carnefex and Stephen Seeley, Rock Run ; John Brown and 
Harrison Diemer, Dakota ; A. J. Niles and D. W. C. Mallory, Ridott ; Charles 
H. Rosenstiel and Fred Baker, Silver Creek ; Conrad Van Brocklin and Anson 
A. Babcock, Florence ; Ralph Sabin and John Lamb, Loran ; Samuel Hayes, 
Jefferson ; Pascal L. Wright and Perez A. Tisdel, Harlem ; Thomas Kaufman 
and Alanson Bacon, Erin ; E. Ordway, William Smith, W. G. Waddell, Thomas 

C. Gatliff, Benjamin Goddard, O. W. Brewster, Jere Pattison, George Purinton 
and Isaac C. Stoneman, Freeport. 

At the meeting on Saturday evening thereafter, a committee, consisting of 
George Purinton, L. W. Guiteau, M. Hettinger, D. A. Knowlton and W. S. 
Gray, was appointed to make permanent the organization, draft a constitution 
and by-laws, and arrange for future meetings. 

Finally, the society was organized on the 1st of January, 1870, at a meet- 
ing held on that day, and the following officers elected : Levi Robev, Presi- 
dent; W. H. Eels, B. P. Belknap, Charles T. Kleckner, John Brown, William B. 
Mitchell, A. W. Lucas, H. P. Waters, F. Baker, Benjamin Goddard, Pascal 
Wright, C. Van Brocklin, Luman Montague, Hubbard Graves, Jacob Gable, 



304 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

Samuel Hayes and Alanson Bacon, Vice-Presidents ; George Purinton and 
D. H. Sunderland, Secretaries, and L. W. Guiteau, Treasurer. 

Since that date the society has been in active existence, meeting annually 
on the last Wednesday in August, and numbering upon its roster of members 
all who have been identified with the early settlement and subsequent building 
up of Stephenson County. 

The officers elected at the meeting convened in 1879, were : Levi Robey, 
President ; S. Chambers, Rock Grove ; M. Gift, Oneco ; H. Eels, Winslow ; 
R. Baysinger, West Point ; W. Dively, Waddams ; John H. Addams, Buck- 
eye ; George Walker, Dakota ; Elijah Clark, Rock Run ; Thomas Bell, Lan- 
caster ; Aaron Kostenbader, Harlem ; J. W. Pickard, Erin ; L. W. Mogle, 
Kent; S. Hayes, Jefferson ; Reuben Babb, Loran ; John Aspinwall, Florence; 
Fred Baker, Silver Creek ; W. G. Woodruff, Ridott, and J. B. Smith, Free- 
port, Vice-Presidents ; W. Wright, Treasurer, and Jackson Richart, Secretary. 

CRIMINAL RECORDS. 

The Qrossen Murder. — A horrible murder was committed on Sunday ? 
March 23, 1856, at Craine's Grove, by an Irishman, named John Crossen, the 
victim being his helpless wife. It seems that Crossen had been celebrating the 
holiday (Easter Sunday), and became intoxicated. Immediately upon the 
departure of a companion who bad indulged a similar weakness and left the 
premises, Crossen began a brutal attack upon his wife, beating her most unmer- 
cifully with a poker, and inflicting wounds from the effects of which she died 
before assistance could reach the scene of the tragedy. When the officers who 
were summoned reached the spot, they found the poor woman dead, her back 
and limbs beaten to a jelly, and her arm horribly fractured by the blows she 
had endeavored to prevent reaching her head. Crossen was at once arrested 
and confined in jail in Freeport, utterly indifferent to his fate; he admitted he 
beat his wife, but denied that his intention was to kill her, having frequently 
beaten her much more severely without serious results. 

The records are silent as to the disposition of the case. 

The Lauber Murder. — About three o'clock on Tuesday afternoon, June 7, 
1859, a German named William Lauber was stabbed by a man named Lauth, 
of Elkhorn Grove, and died almost instantly. The affair happened near where 
the "Branch " crosses the railroad track, just below the machine shop. The 
deceased, commonly known as " Butcher Bill," claimed that Lauth owed him, 
and for some time previous had been persistently dunning him. During the 
forenoon of the day upon which the homicide occurred, Lauth had made threats 
and exhibited a butcher-knife which he carried, as was inferred from his 
remarks, to aid in his attack upon deceased. When first noticed, the latter 
was demanding his pay from Lauth, to which reply was made " Keep away, 
and leave me alone." The dispute waxed warm, until finally Lauth drew a 
knife and plunged it into the heart of his antagonist. Lauber died instantly, 
and Lauth was arrested and held on a charge of murder. 

The accused pleaded guilty to manslaughter at the September term, 1859, 
of the Circuit Court, and was sentenced to the penitentiary for eight years. 

The Arnd Tragedy. — During the summer of 1859, a German named Peter 
Arnd, accompanied by his family, consisting of a wife and four children, settled 
in this county on a place belonging to George Boardman, five miles above 
Cedarville. He was employed by Boardman as a field-hand, and generally 
regarded as a capable, responsible man. No attention was paid to his domestic 
affairs, nor was it believed that any difficulty existed in that quarter, his wife 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 305 

being an industrious woman, and his children, though all of tender age, requir- 
ing but little care. 

On Tuesday morning, July 26, 1859, he proceeded to work, but returned 
about ten o'clock on account of a sore hand, and sent his wife to do the work 
assigned him. She worked until noon, when she returned to the house to care 
for the children and provide dinner, remaining but a short time ere she 
resumed work in the field. When night came on she ceased from her labors, 
and once more returned in the direction of her home, another woman accom- 
panying her thither. As they reached the house and were passing an open win- 
dow a most horrible sight met their gaze, transfixing them with terror, and for 
the time incapacitating either of them from sounding an alarm. Her four 
children lay upon the floor weltering in their blood, and manifesting no sign of 
life. The father stood by, an ax in his hand, with which he had done the deed, 
gazing in a senseless manner upon the upturned faces of his dying sons and 
daughters, but making no efforts to escape. By this time the witnesses of this 
dread result made an outcry and caused the murderer's apprehension. He was 
committed to jail, after an inquest had been held, at which a verdict in accord- 
ance with the facts was rendered, and held for trial. 

During his confinement he exhibited signs of mental weakness, and within 
two weeks from the- date of his incarceration died from softening of the brain, 
superinduced by sunstroke, and confirming the belief that he was not respon- 
sible for his acts when he committed the deed. 

Three children were killed outright ; the fourth survived his injuries sev- 
eral days. 

The Shooting of Mrs. George Whitney. — About 11 o'clock on the morn- 
ing of Saturday, August 8, 1866. Dakalb Walton, a soldier in the three- 
months service attached to Capt. Crane's company, shot and instantly killed 
Mrs. George Whitney, wife of a soldier in the Fifteenth Regiment. The affair 
occurred directly opposite the Stephenson House, and Walton, after he had 
inflicted the fatal wound upon his victim, attempted suicide by shooting himself. 

According to the evidence elicited at the coroner's inquest, deceased and 
her would-be assassin had been living together at Oneco for some time prior to 
the tragedy, or since her husband, who was Sergeant of Company A, Fifteenth 
Regiment, had enlisted. On the Saturday of the killing, Walton and Mrs. Whit- 
ney had visited the brewery and drank beer, after which the former disclaimed 
his ignorance of what had passed until he realized consciousness in jail. The 
jury directed his imprisonment on a charge of murder, to await the action of 
the Grand Jury. 

The defendant was tried at the April term, of 1864, of the Circuit Court, 
and acquitted on the ground of insanity. 

The Schmidtz Mystery. — About the 30th of April, 1869, thebody of a man 
named Henry Schmidtz, a former resident of Freeport, was found lying by the 
side of a slough in the town of Lancaster, in an advanced state of decompo- 
sition, and bearing marks indicating that he had met his death by violence. 
The body was recovered by Thomas S. Leach and William Peters, and taken to 
Freeport, where an inquest was held and evidence elicited tending to show that 
he had received $300 a short time previous to the discovery of the body, and 
when last seen was in the company of a man by the name of Casper Stoffels,. 
whom he had employed to assist him in his business, being that of peddling. 

A verdict of murder at the hands of persons unknown to the jury, was- 
returned. 



306 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

The Wood Murder. — Between the hours of 1 and 2 o'clock, on the morn- 
ing of June 7, 1872, a shooting affray took place at the Kraft House, opposite 
the Western Union Depot, resulting in the death of Frank Wood, at the hands 
of John L. Thompson. Both had been together since the Thursday previous and 
up to the time of the affray, consorting with a pair of disreputable women named 
Rosa Bell and Flora Kennedy, and all drinking to excess. The quarrel began 
about these women, both of whom accompanied Thompson to the hotel a short 
time prior to the tragedy, followed by Wood. An altercation succeeded Wood's 
arrival at the house, during which the latter struck Thompson in the face, at 
the same time accompanying his blow with threats and insulting epithets. 
Thereupon Thompson drew a revolver and fired at his assailant, inflicting 
wounds from which death resulted immediately. Thompson was arrested. 

He was placed on trial, at the December term, 1872, of the Circuit Court, 
convicted of manslaughter, and sentenced to the penitentiary for one year. 

The Thompson Defalcation. — During the month of May, 1874, rumors 
were rife throughout Stephenson County that George Thompson, ex-County 
Clerk, had, while in office, falsified the records, forged numerous county orders, 
and re-issued others that had already been redeemed by the County Treasurer. 

The facts which led to the discovery of these frauds first came to the sur- 
face on Saturday, May 7, 1874, when Thompson called upon Aaron Wolfe and 
offered for sale an order dated September 14, 1871, payable to himself, for 
$1,220.05. The order bore an indorsement by the County Treasurer that the 
same had been "presented for payment and registered by me, this May 2, 1874 
— 0. P. McCool, County Treasurer," misleading Wolfe, who purchased the 
security. Subsequent reflection induced the holder to investigate the facts, 
tending to trace the paper into the possession of Thompson. After an exami- 
nation, it was ascertained that an order of a similar tenor and date had been paid 
in 1872, and so reported to the County Clerk for cancellation by the Finance 
Committee. As the investigation progressed, the fraud and decepti on practiced 
by Thompson became more apparent, and his victim impressed with the position 
in which he had been placed. 

In the mean time, Thompson left the city and proceeded to Chicago, whence 
he returned to Freeport, however, and redeemed the order purchased by Mr. 
Wolfe. After the discovery of his frauds, others, who had become the holders 
of similar property as collaterals, repaired to the records and found that spu- 
rious orders, representing a face valuation of about $4,000, had been disposed 
of as collaterals and by transfer of ownership, to Knowlton & Sons, the Second 
National Bank, Joseph Emmert, First National Bank, James Mitchell & Co., 
and others. The public were naturally exercised at these discoveries, and con- 
siderable excitement prevailed throughout the county. Thompson had enjoyed 
universal confidence in the political, social, financial and Christian circles, had 
been a leading spirit in Sabbath-schools and church organizations, and was gen-, 
erally regarded as one whose daily life had commended him to general respect. 
The Finance Committee of the Board of Supervisors made an investigation into 
the charges alleged against Thompson, and found that, imposing on the credulity 
of the public, he had been able to swindle that too confiding unknown quantity 
out of about $5,000. A warrant was at once issued for his arrest, but before 
he could be apprehended the accused absconded and its service was prevented. 
He fled to Canada, thence to California, where he established a ranche, mean- 
time paying off the liabilities he had left unsettled in Freeport, and remaining 
absent until the fall of 1878, at which time he returned to the scene of his 
crime, pleaded guilty to one of the number of indictments that had been returned 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 307 

against him, and was sentenced to the penitentiary. He remained in Joliet 
two years and was pardoned, returning to California, where he now is. 

Hall's Haul. — The defalcation of A. W. Hall should not be forgotten, 
either. He was elected Clerk of the Circuit Court, and was inducted into office 
the first in the county under the provision of the constitution abolishing fees 
and substituting therefor a salary. 

Hall refused to recognize the equity of this change, insisting upon it that 
"he was entitled to the fees accruing, and declining to pay them over according 
to law. The Supervisors instituted suit against him to test the points held by 
both parties, and obtained judgment. An appeal was taken by Hall, but the 
Supreme Court affirmed the judgment, and by this time, his term of office 
"having expired, Hall disappeared, defaulter to the extent of $3,184, and has 
never been heard of since. He was indicted, and his bondsmen liquidated $2,000 
of his liability, leaving $1,184 with interest unpaid, which was lost by the county. 

The Goodhue Defalcation. — Charles. F. Goodhue, Treasurer of Stephen- 
son County, was indicted at the December (1878) term of the Circuit Court for 
embezzlement, as County Treasurer, of the sum of $5,000 of moneys in his 
possession by virtue of his official position. A change of venue was taken by 
Goodhue to the Circuit Court of Rockfo'rd, Winnebago County, and at the 
January (1879) term, he was tried, convicted and sentenced to four years in 
the penitentiary. His attorney, J. A. Crain, appealed the case, by writ of 
error, to the Supreme Court, and at the September term, 1879, of that tribunal, 
the judgment was reversed, and the case remanded for a new trial. ' At the 
January term, 1880, just one year from the first trial, Goodhue, after laying 
thirteen months behind the bars of Winnebago County Jail, was again tried, 
and, under the rulings of the Supreme Court, as applied to his case, acquitted. 

At the December term 1879, of the Stephenson County Court, two additional 
indictments were found against him, one for the embezzlement and another fbr 
larceny of jail orders, amounting to $22.12 ; these, with two other indictments 
which had been found, one for the embezzlement of $100, and the other for 
falsifying a public record, came up for hearing in the Stephenson County Circuit 
Court at the April term, 1880, and Goodhue's attorney took a change of venue 
on all four of the cases to DeKalb County. At this stage of the proceedings, 
the Board of Supervisors of Stephenson County met and passed a resolution, 
instructing the Finance Committee to employ the ablest legal assistance, in their 
judgment, in the State of Illinois, to assist J. S. Cochran in the prosecution of 
the case. Clothed with this authority, Mr. H. Lichtenberger, Chairman of the 
Finance Committee, retained Charles H. Reed, of Chicago, who had been for 
twelve years the State's Attorney of Cook County, to assist in the prosecution. 
The case came to trial on Friday, June 25, the indictment on which the test 
was based being the embezzlement of the jail orders. The defense proved by 
Mr. Lichtenberger. one of the witnesses against Goodhue, that he (Lichtenber- 
ger) had ordered Goodhue to draw the money on the orders, which he did, and 
placed $600 in each of three Banks of Freeport, and the balance, $412, 
in the safe of the Treasurer's office. They also proved by Miss Kate Goodhue, 
who was acting in the capacity of clerk in the Treasurer's office at that time, 
that Goodhue had paid out every dollar of this money to liquidate authorized 
claims against the county, thus showing there was no ca6e against Goodhue 
from a legal standpoint, and on the 1st day of July, 1880, after a week's pro- 
traction, the trial ended, and the jury rendered a verdict fully acquitting him, 
and, the other indictments having been abandoned, Charles F. Goodhue once 
more breathed the pure air of freedom. 



308 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

WAR RECORD. 

A traveler sailing up the Bay of Athens sees, while yet afar off, the shin- 
ing splendors of the " Eye of Greece, Mother of Arts and Eloquence." " There 
are marble palaces and columns, rising white against the vineries and olive 
groves which deck the mountain landscape with a foliage of endless green. The 
hum of early traffic mingles with the shoutings of the crews of Alexandrian corn 
ships hoisting the anchors. Sheer and rugged in the foreground rises the 
Acropolis. On its summit the citadel, and crowning that the colossal statue of 
Minerva, her golden shield catching the morning light and flashing it back in 
brightness that dazzles while still enchanting the eye." 

In a like manner, as one approaches the theme The Union, and the contest 
for its preservation, does he find himself encompassed with glories born of the 
most perfect civilization. Art, science and literature were in the enjoyment of a 
golden age, and the roll-call of names of those who excelled in each was sur- 
rounded by the glories of America, as were the names of Homer, Herodotus, 
Plato, Euclid, Praxiteles, Demosthenes and others, around whom the glories of 
Athens have gathered for thousands of years. 

Twenty eventful annuals have become merged into the sounding past since 
the coming of the days which are now consecrated to the memories of the sad, 
triumphant period in the nation's history, with which the world is familiar. 
Those were perfect days. It seemed as if science, art, the laws, the people and 
God aided at their birth and development. Peace and happiness went hand in 
hand ; the laws were observed, and their violation was visited with the severest 
penalties. Each section contributed to the wealth of the opposite portion of the 
Union ; in fact, nothing was wanted to complete the picture of universal pros- 
perity then exhibited to the world by the United States. Such, imperfectly, 
was the condition of affairs as they existed upon the dawn of 1861 in both sec- 
tions of the country, which rivaled in all that tended to complete a make-up of 
brilliancy and wealth, emeralds and rubies set in burnished gold. But the 
notes of the impending storm were heard before the advancing winter was 
ushered in with the New Year, and the people had begun to conclude that the 
summer of the nation, with all its glories, had gone to belaid in the great store- 
house of the past. 

Finally, the rebellion reached a stage when the crisis was at hand — a 
crisis which compelled every man to side either with law and order or with mob 
rule and sectional despotism. No rights of the South were endangered by the 
Union, or could be enforced by rebellion. The assumption that the ascendency 
of the party in power threatened danger to the rights and peace of the South 
was regarded as entirely without force by the people of the North, and as 
importing anarchy against law and order. Upon such a question, which vitally 
concerned every man's safety in business as it concerned the existence of the 
Government, decisive expressions of opinion were heard all over the North. 
There was little disposition to talk, but a determined purpose to act developed; 
a purpose equal to the emergency. There was but one Government and one 
system of laws, to which every man should be compelled to feel there was alle- 
giance. Acting upon this conclusion, a demand was made for respect for the 
laws by men who had no thought of flinching, and who expressed the matured 
judgment of a majority. That the law was resisted was a calamity, but greater 
calamities would attend the general anarchy which must follow if a rigorous 
execution of the laws was prevented or restrained. 

Such were the views of the citizens of Stephenson County, when the sur- 
render of Fort Sumter and the call for troops were promulgated. On the 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 309 

evening of Thursday, April 18, 1861, Plymouth Hall was crowded by an eager, 
anxious multitude, assembled in response to a call issued at noon of that day, 
appealing to the lovers of the stars and stripes to rally and; rally they did, in 
numbers overwhelming, made up of Republicans and Democrats, for all were 
Americans. 

The Hon. F. W. S. Brawley presided, with J. R. Scroggs and C. K. 
Judson acting as Secretaries, and, on motion of J. W. Shaffer, T. Wilcoxon, J. 
M. Smith, W. P. Malburn, H. H. Taylor, Capt. Crane and Dr. Martin were 
appointed Vice Presidents. 

During the absence of the Committee on Resolutions, composed of J. W. 
Shaffer, James Mitchell, C. K. Judson, J. R. Scroggs and A. H. Stone, speeches 
were made by S. D. Atkins, C. Betts, C. S. Bagg and Mr. Wagner, editor of 
the Anzeiger, the latter in German. Resolutions were adopted declaratory of 
the love for the Union felt by citizens of Freeport, and their determination to 
aid, so far as lay within their power, the General Government in its enforce- 
ment of the laws. The meeting was then adjourned, but the spirit manifested 
became intensified as time progressed. The following day recruiting was begun, 
and on Saturday, April 20, 1861, the first company enlisted in the county was 
filled and the oath administered to the following officers and privates: S. D. 
Atkins, Captain; M. E. Newcomer, First, and S. W. Field, Second Lieutenant; 
F. T. Goodrich, H. A. Sheetz, William Polk and R. W. Hulburt, Sergeants ; 
C. T. Dunham, J. 0. Churchill, R. H. Rodearmel and W. W. Lott, Corporals ; 
C. E. Cotton, drummer, and J. R. Harding, fifer; W. W. Allen, J. W. Brew- 
ster, Robert Brennan, W. N. Blakeman. A. S. Best, H. P. Parker, W. H. 
Brown, Frank Bellman, J. S. Chambers, J. M. Chown, Thomas Chattaway, 
A. Coppersmith, F. Dreener. J. W. Duncan, J. P. Davis, M. Eshelman, Will- 
iam Eddy, J. Geiser, J. R. Hayes, E. J. Hurlburt, W. J. Hoover, L. Hall, T. 
J. Hathaway, J. E. Hershey, J. F. Harnish, F. M. DeArmit, W. W. Hunt, 
W. J. Irvin, S. H. Ingham, Nicholas Kassel, D. L. Farmer, 0. F. Lamb, J. 
H. Loveland, S. Lindeman, S. Lebkicker, J. H. McGee, U. B. McDowell, W. 
T. McLaughlin, F. Murphy, D. McCormick, J. M. Miller, F. R. McLaughlin, 
J. P. Owen, J. Pratt, A. Patterson, G. L. Piersol, N. Smith, L. Strong, J. S. 
Stout, 0. F. Smith, M. Slough, 0. Sched, J. S. Sills, C. G. Stafford, T. 
Wishart, W. P. Waggoner, M. S. Weaver, J. Walton, Stephens Waterbury, J. 
Walkey and J. Work. 

The company left Freeport for Springfield on Wednesday morning. May 
1, 1861, escorted to the depot by Capt. M. B. Mills' company and the Union 
Cornet Band, and cheered by the presence of not less than 3,000 people, who 
were there to bid them good-bye, and implore God's blessing upon the efforts 
inaugurated in behalf of their country. Upon arriving in camp, the " boys " were 
assigned to the Eleventh Regiment, making up the roster of Company A. 

Soon after the departure of the volunteers under the command of Capt. 
Atkins, W. J. McKim enlisted a second company, the following being the 
roster : W. J. McKim, Captain ; Henry Setley and Philip Arno, Lieutenants ; 
Carl F. Wagner, Jacob Hoebel, D. A. Galpin and Theodore Grove, Sergeants ; 
Joseph Meyer, Jacob Fiscus, E. Wike, John Bauscher, L. Lehman, Amos D. 
Hemmig, Joseph Boni, George Moggly, Dietrich Sweden, John Kruse, Mein- 
hard Herren, C. H. Gramp, Jacob Steinhauer, Mat Allard, John Berry, Peter 
E. Smith, James Holmes, Henry Groenewald, Albert Kocher, Thomas Burling, 
C. Protexter, David Stocks, Henry Luttig, Thomas Shuler, Adam Haiser, 
Andrew Olnhausen, E. Neese, David French, J. H. Maynard, A. Borches, 
Jacob Doll, John A. Raymer, Jacob Ernst, Leonard Sherman, Frederick 



310 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

Deusing, John T. Palmer, John Wheeler, Martin Aikey, R. Harberts, A. V. L. 
Roosa, Emanuel Evee, C. F. A. Kellogg, John Niemeyer, Thomas Willan y 
James Vore, August Temple, Jacob Rohrback, Henry Spies, Charles Entorff, 
Isaac Kephart, James Barron, Herman Froning, Daniel F. Shirk, James Ken- 
neg, Albert J. Miller, William H. Hennich, John Wiefenbach, William Morris, 
Henry Kasper, Martin D. Rollison, Henry D. Black, John F. Black, Henry 
Rubald, Bernard O'Brien, George Philbrick, William Quinn, John B. Yoder, 
John Ginther, M. D. Miller, John Yordy, Moses Burns, Gotlieb Vollmer, Gar- 
rison Haines and Max Lamprecht, privates. 

From this, beginning the work went bravely on. Lena furnished a compnay 
which was attached to the Fifteenth Regiment, and rendezvoused at Camp 
Scott, a camp established on the grounds of the Stephenson County Agricul- 
tural Association, near Freeport, and recruits were drawn from every township 
to swell the contributions of the county to the suppression of treason. Those 
who were unable to proceed to the front remained at home to aid the efforts- 
inaugurated there for the preservation of the Union and the enforcement of the 
laws. Relief and aid societies were formed, sanitary associations organized, and 
every agency that could aid in promoting the comfort of the soldiers was suc- 
cessfully invoked in that behalf. 

On the morning of June 19, 1861, the Fifteenth Regiment, commanded 
by Col. T. J. Turner, one of the oldest and most promient residents of Stephenson 
County, left Camp Scott and proceeded to Alton. The day was one of the 
most exciting and memorable in the history of the present city. When the 
huge train moved out it bore with it the earnest prayers of assembled thous- 
ands, that those who were passengers, may-hap for the opposite shore, might be 
returned to their homes in safety. 

As all are familiar with, the three-months service of volunteers concluded 
with the battle of Manassas. The defeat sustained in that engagement in no- 
manner disheartened the men of the North. The sad intelligence spread a 
general gloom over the country, and carried sorrow and mourning into many a 
household, whence some loved member had gone forth to return no more. Yet 
the people faltered not in this dark hour of trial, but were spurred on to renewed 
efforts in behalf of the Government. The public mind was roused to a keener 
appreciation of the dangers that threatened and the difficulties that surrounded 
the country, and this call upon the people's patriotism was responded to by 
thousands, who pledged themselves to the defense of the old flag. Capt. Atkins' 
company was re-organized and re-enlisted for the war. Recruits were also 
furnished from Stephenson County to the formation of Company " B," of the 
Twenty-sixth Regiment, and Companies A, B, C, D, G, and K, of the Forty- 
sixth Regiment, these latter coming from Buckeye, Oneco, Rock Grove, Lan- 
caster and Florence Townships, being organized for service on the 28th of 
December, 1861. Truly, the spirit was not yet dead. Patriotism and patriotic 
impulse found as earnest expression in Stephenson County with the dawn of 
1862, as was witnessed when the first call to arms was sounded. Like strains 
of martial music will the story of their patriotism roll down through listless 
ages, till Time shall pause in his career* and the race of man is run. The 
patriotic spirit burned in every breast, flashed from every eye, thrilled every 
nerve and quivered in every muscle, and the arm of him who fought for home 
proved mightier far than the mad ambition of him who fought for treason. 
Though 1861 had gone, leaving its mark upon each brow, and shadow in each 
heart, the nation pursued the object of its contest, and waited trustfully, but 
with hushed hearts and tear-filled eyes, for the shining of the bow of promise. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 311 

The year 1862, as all know, opened discouraginlgy, and it was not until the 
capture of Fort Donelson, in February of that year, that the gleam of promise, 
set by God among the clouds, first began to flicker in the horizon of the future. 
The regiments, in which volunteers from Stephenson County were enrolled, 
participating in that engagement, were the Eleventh, Forty-fifth, " Forty-sixth " 
and perhaps more. Many there were, from these organizations, who yielded up 
their lives, a holocaust at their country's call, and, though history may never 
record their humble names or chronicle their deeds, yet they belong to the 
nobility of earth, and in that kingdom which comes after earth, each one is 
crowned with more than Olympic laurels. 

In September, 1862, the Ninety-second Regiment was enlisted, organized 
and mustered into service. The thought indulged, with the first call for troops, 
that three months only would be required to conquer the South, had by this 
time been thoroughly dissipated. The people were ignorant of war, and it was 
not until the return of the sick, the wounded and the dead, the latter in rough 
pine boxes, with their soldiers' coats about them, that the " folks at home " 
began to realize that war was abroad. The frequent calls for men, the repeated 
repulses, not to say defeats, intensified this reality ; and when it became necessary 
to have recourse to the draft to restore the shattered regiments ; to somewhat of 
a resemblance to their former appearance, then was the conviction forced 
without demurrer. The Ninety-second contained soldiers enlisted in Lancas- 
ter, Buckeye, Erin, Kent and Jefferson Townships, of Stephenson County, and 
the fidelity they exhibited to the cause in which they embarked is found in the 
killed, wounded and missing that depleted its ranks. 

During the same year, about June, a company of three-months troops was 
partially made up of volunteers from Stephenson County, and entered the service 
at Camp Douglas. It was commanded by James W. Crane, with Stephen Allen 
and Lorenzo Willard as Lieutenants ; John Stine, James R. Bake, Charles A. 
Dodge, John D. Lamb and Harrison W. Sigworth, Sergeants ; C. D. Bently, 
Theodore A. Cronk, Oliver T. Steinmetz, Ambrose Martin, Sidney Robins, H. 
S. Ritz, W. H. Heyt and W. H. Battle, Corporals. The Ninety-second was 
raised for three years or the war, in response to a requisition made by the 
Government for nine regiments from the State of Illinois, to fill up the ranks 
depleted in the five-days fight about Richmond, but the three-months troops 
were appropriated mostly to provost duty. Notwithstanding the liberality with 
which the county responded, it was feared that a draft would become neces- 
sary to supply Governmental demands, and during the same year the Ninety- 
second was mustered into service (1862), an enrollment of the county was made, 
and 3,000 residents reported as liable to duty under the provisions of an act 
amending Chapter 70, Revised Statutes. About this time, war meetings were 
convened at various points, notably at Freeport, Lena, Cedarville and else- 
where, which were addressed by E. B. Washburne, T. J. Turner, Adjutant 
General Fuller and others. These meetings had the effect of increasing enlist- 
ments, which were assigned to companies in the Eleventh, Twenty-sixth and 
other regiments, and of postponing the draft, which was delayed for two years. 
In October following, Capt. Irvin enlisted a company about Freeport, which 
was assigned to the Seventy-fourth Regiment, and included upon the roster of 
that organization as Company I. The year 1862 passed without much more 
being done than is cited. The defeat at Fredericksburg increased the surround- 
ing gloom, and the campaign in the valley, early in 1863, rather aggravated 
than lessened the gravity of the situation. With each call for troops succeed- 
ing calamities gave birth to, Stephenson County responded cheerfully, though 



312 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

available material had been comparatively exhausted by the drafts made on her 
resources. The season of 1863 was a repetition of those which had preceded 
its advent. Meetings were convened to further enlistments, and provide for 
the soldiers. Money was subscribed for the support of families whose heads 
were at the front, and the payment of bounties. Fairs were held, and other 
mediums employed that would remotely aid in the gigantic undertaking. But 
little occurred to encourage the people, or bind up the broken hearts that pul- 
sated with grief for the loss of those who perished in Virginia and the South- 
west. Among the most prominent killed during this year was Holden Putnam, 
Colonel of the Ninety-third Regiment, which had been in existence about one 
year. But many of those who went out from Stephenson County with high 
hopes and creditable ambitions, passed away before 1863 was included among 
the years that have gone. Grievous, sore and terrible were the blows that fell 
upon the North that year, and many a lonely wife and fatherless little one 
looked to God for fresh hope and courage, and to help them to remember that 
this life is but the vestibule to a glorious hereafter. The principal events,, 
notably the capture of Vicksburg, the issue of the emancipation proclamation, 
battle of Gettysburg, etc., served to temporarily dispel the clouds which sur- 
rounded the cause, and inspire new plans for the closing year of the war. Early in 
January, 1864, the Forty- sixth regiment re-enlisted, and returned to Freeport, 
where they met with a hearty welcome. But these were days when the finality 
of that contest which had been raging for nearly four years was drawing nigh ; 
when the surrender of the rebel forces had resolved itself into a question of 
certainty, the time of that event being in the near future. Day was breaking 
to the watchers in the tower of American liberty, and the coming dawn 
announced its presence through the mist and clouds, sublime with the glories of 
the breaking morn, when error should decay, truth be, strengthened and right 
rule supreme o'er vanquished wrong; when jealousies and hate should give 
way to joy and peace and brotherhood. And, although the advent of the 
smiling stranger was prolonged another year, it came at last. Peace shed its 
gentle rays over the scenes of war and desolation, and a rosy radiance, gleam- 
ing from afar, melted in the dawning of the perfect day. " Well done, watch- 
ers on the lonely tower." Broad daylight finally broke upon the plain, and 
to-day soars unfettered, as its God designed. 

With the peace at Appomattox, the soldiers for the Union returned to 
their homes in Stephenson County, where they were welcomed as the defend- 
ers of faith in that form of government which must not perish from off the face 
of the earth. 

In addition to the enlistments quoted, Stephenson County had represent- 
atives in every branch of the service, and her citizens remember the names of 
those who fought the good fight unto the end, and returned to receive the 
reward of faithful stewards. 

But there were many who did not return, and many still who were returned 
in the arms of Death. Some sleep the sleep of the just in the village church- 
yard, where their little white headstones dispute for prominence with the daisies 
and white-topped clovers. Their lives and death are shrined in the Pantheon of 
patriotic hearts to an immortal memory. Some sleep in the land of the jasmine 
and orange blossom. Neither are forgotten. Both are remembered as they 
slumber, "each in his windowless cell," the slumbers of sanctified rest. 

During the war, Stephenson County furnished a total of 3,168 soldiers, 
and bounties, subscriptions and supplies aggregating upward of half a million 
of dollars. The draft was enforced but once. 



rv 



■;^i|lii 











FREEPORT. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



315 



VOLUNTEER ROSTER. 

TAKEN PRINCIPALLY FROM ADJUTANT GENERAL'S REPORTS. 



.a.EBEaE-vx.A-'rxoars 



Adjt Adjutant 

Art Artillery 

Bat Battle or Battalion 

Col Colonel 

Capt Captain 

Corp Corporal 

Comsy Commissary 

com commissioned 

cav cavalry 

captd captured 

disab disabled 

disd discharged 

e enlisted 

excd -exchanged 

hon. disd honorably discharged 

inv invalid 



inf 

I. V. I. 
kid 



iufantr- 

.Iowa Volunteer Infantry 
.killed 



Lieut Lieutenant 

Ma J Major 

m - ° mustered out 

prmtd promoted 

P nsr prisoner 

Re S t Regiment 

re "^ re-enlisted 

re8t * resigned 

Sergt Sergeant 

trans transferred 

*j? *"•" veteran 

v - B - c Veteran Reserve Corps 

w( * wounded 



ELEVENTH INFANTRY. 

The regiment was called into service under 
proclamation of the President, April 16, 1861 ; 
organized at Springfield, and mustered into 
service April 30, 1861, by Capt. Pope, for 
three months. 

During this term of service, the regiment 
was stationed at Villa Ridge, 111., to June 20th, 
then removed to Bird's Point, Mo., where it 
remained, performing garrison and field duty, 
until July 80th, when the regiment was mus- 
tered out, and re-enlisted for three-years 
serviee. During the three-months term, the 
lowest aggregate was 882, and the highest 933, 
and at the muster-out was 916. 

Upon the re-muster, July 13th, the aggre- 
gate was 288. During the months of August, 
September, October aud November, the regi- 
ment was recruited to an aggregate of 801. In 
the mean time were doing garrison and field 
duty, participating in the following expedi- 
tions: September 9th to 11th, expedition 
toward New Madrid ; October 6th to 11th, to 
Charleston, Mo.; November 3d to 12th, to 
Bloomfield, Mo., via Commerce, returning via 
Cape Girardeau; January 7th and 8th, expe- 
dition to Charleston, Mo., skirmished with a 
portion of the command of Jeff Thompson ; 
January 13th to 20th, reconnoissance of Colum- 
bus, Ky., under Gen. Grant ; January 25th to 
28th, to Sikestown, Mo.; February 2d, em- 
barked on transports to Fort Henry, partici- 
pating in campaign against that place ; Feb- 
ruary 11th, moved toward Fort Donelson ; 
February 12th, 13th and 14th, occupied in 
investing that place, 12th heavily engaged 
with the enemy about five hours, losing 329 
killed, wounded and missing, out of about 500 
engaged, of whom 72 were killed and 182 
wounded ; March 4th and 5th. en route to Fort 
Henry ; 5th to 13th, en route to Savannah, 
Xenn., in transports ; 23d to 25th, en route 



from Savannah to Pittsburg Landing ; April 
6th and 7th, engaged in battle of Shiloh, losing 
27 killed and wounded, out of 150 engaged ; 
April 24th to June 4th, participated in siege 
of Corinth, thence marched to Jackson, Tenn., 
making headquarters there to August 2d ; par- 
ticipated in two engagements. July 1st and 2d, 
toward Trenton, Tenn. ; July 23d to 28th, 
to Lexington, Tenn. ; August 2d, moved to 
Cairo, 111., for purpose of recruiting ; remained 
at that point until August 23 ; thence to Pa- 
ducah, Ky., remaining there until November 
20th ; in the mean time engaged in two expedi- 
tions — August 24th to September 16th, to 
Clarksville, Tenn,, via Forts Henry and Don- 
elson— October 31st to November 13th, expedi- 
tion to Hopkinsville, Ky. ; November 20th to 
14th, en route to La Grange, Tenn., where the 
regiment reported and was assigned to Brig. 
Gen. McArthur's Division, Left Wing, 13th 
Army Corps. From this time to Jan. 12, 1863, 
participated in campaign in Northern Missis- 
sippi, marching via Tallahatchie (where the 
regiment was engaged in a sharp skirmish) ; 
from thence to Abbeville ; thence seven miles 
below Oxford ; thence to Holly Springs, Mos- 
cow and Memphis, Tenn. Remained in Mem- 
phis until the 17th, when it embarked on 
transport and en route to Young's Point until 
24th, remaining there until February 11th; 
then moved to Lake Providence, and assigned 
to the Seventeenth Army Corps, making head- 
quarters there until April 20th, participating 
in expedition to American Bend, from March 
17th to 28th. April 23, 1863, the One Hun- 
dred and Ninth Illinois Infantry was trans- 
ferred to the Eleventh, 589 being the aggregate 
gained by the transfer. April 26th, regiment 
moved with column to rear of Vicksburg, via 
Richmond, Perkins' Landing, Grand Gulf, 
Raymond and Black River, arriving before the 
works May 18th ; May 19th and 22d, engaged 
in assaults on the enemy's works ; then in the 



316 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



advance siege works to July 4th, at time of 
surrender ; the regiment losing in the siege 
and assault one field officer (Col. Garrett Nev- 
ins) killed : three line officers wounded, and 
forty men killed and wounded. July 17th, 
moved with expedition to Natchez, Miss., par- 
ticipating in expedition to Woodville, Miss. 
October 12th, returned to Vickshurg, Miss., 
making headquarters there to July 29, 1864; 
in the mean time engaged in the following expe- 
ditions : February 1st to March 8th, up Yazoo 
River to Greenwood, Miss., having a skirmish 
at Liverpool Heights, February 5th, losing four 
killed and nine wounded ; action at Yazoo 
City, March 5th, losing one line officer killed, 
eight men killed, twenty-four wounded and 
twelve missing; April 6th to 28th, at Black 
River Bridge : May 4th to 21st, expedition to 
Yazoo City, Benton, and Vaughn's Station, 
Miss., taking a prominent part in three impor- 
tant skirmishes ; July 1st to 7th, with an expe- 
dition to Jackson. Miss., under Maj Gen. 
Slocum, engaged with the enemy three times ; 
July 29th, moved to Morganza, and was 
assigned to Nineteenth Army Corps, Maying 
there to September 3d ; in the mean time par- 
ticipating in an expedition to Clinton, La., 
August 24th to 29th ; September 3d, moved to 
mouth of White River, Ark.; October 8th, 
moved to Memphis, Tenn., returning to White 
River October 27th ; November 6th and 7th, 
expedition to Gaines' Landing; November 8th, 
moved to Duvall's Bluff, Ark.; November 30th 
to December 4th, en route to Memphis, Tenn.; 
December 20th to 31st, expedition to Moscow, 
Tenu.; January 1st to 5th, en route to Kenner, 
La.; February 4th to 7th, en route to Dauphine 
Island, via Lake Pontchartrain ; March 17th to 
April 12th, engaged in operations against 
Mobile, Ala., marching from Fort Morgan, 
participating in the investment and siege, and 
final capture of Spanish Fort and Fort Blakely, 
and in the assault on the latter ; April 12th, 
marched into and took possession of the city 
of Mobile, staying there until the 27th of May, 
when embarked in transport and moved via 
Lake Pontchartrain to New Orleans; from 
thence to Alexandria, La., remaining there 
until June 22d ; thence to Baton Rouge, La., 
to be mustered oat of service ; mustered out 
July 14, 1865, and left for Springfield, 111., for 
payment and final discharge. 

Killed in the field and died of wounds, 149 

Aggregate three-months service 933 

Aggregate three-years service 1879 

Field and staff, three years' service... 53 
The following general officers have been in 
the regiment: Gen. W. H. L. Wallace, Gen. T. 
E. G. Ransom, Gen. Smith D. Atkins. 

The following field officers of other regi- 
ments were members of this regiment : Col. 
Hotchkiss, Col. Hopeman, Col. H. H. Dean, 
Col. G. L. Fort, Lieut. Col. McCalb, Maj. S. B. 
Dean, Maj. Widmer. 

Line officers from this regiment to other 
regiments, thirty-three (33). 

Maj. Smith I>. Atkins, com. Capt Co. A, May 14, 1861, 
prmtd maj. Feb. 15, 1862 prmtd Col. 92nd Regt. 



Quartermaster Guyan J. Davis, com. 1st lieut. Co. A, 

July 4. 1860, p>mtd. Quartermaster Aug. 31, 1861, 

term exp. July 29, 1864. 
Quartermaster Joseph W. Brewster, e. as private Co. A. 

July 30, 1862, prmtd 2nd Lieut. Oct. 31, 1863, prmtd! 

Quartermasier July 29, 1864. 

Company A. 

Capt. Smith D. Atkins, com. May 14, 1861. 

First Lieut. Martin E. Newcomer, com. May 14, 1861. 

Second Lieut. Silas W. Fields, com. May 14, 1861. 

First Sergt. Richar.son W. Hurlburt, e. July 30, 1861, 
prmtd 2d lieut. 

Sergt. James 0. Churchill, e. July 30, 1861, prmtd. 2d 
lieut. 

Sertg. Orton Ingersol, e. July 30, 1861, prmtd. 2nd lieut. 

Sergt. F. T. Goodrich, e. July 30, 1861, kid. bat. Shiloh. 

Sergt. F. R. Bellman, e. July 30, 1861, kid. at Ft. Donel- 
son. 

Corp. Hugh Q. Staver, e. July 30, '61, disd. for promotion. 

Corp. JohnR. Hayes, e. July 30, 1861, disd. Nov. 24, 1862. 
disab. 

Corp. O. F. Lamb, e. July 30, '61, disd. Aug. 3, '62, disab. 

Corp. John D. Waggoner, e. July 30, 1861, disd. May 17, 
1862. 

Corp. H. B. Springer, e. July 30, '61, died July 14, '63, wd. 

Corp. William N. Blakeman, e. July 30, 1861, disd. July 
30, 1864, term expired. 

Corp. John Cronemiller, e. July 30, 1861, kid. at Ft. Don- 
elson. 

Corp. Jason Clingman, e. July 30, 1861, disd. foi promo 
tion, June 6, 1863. 

Musician C. E. Cotton, e. July 30, 1861, trans, to hon- 
com. staff. 

Musician John R. Harding, e. July 30, 1861, disd. for 
promotion, June 6, 1863. 

Addams, S. J., e. July 30, 1861, disd. April, 1862, disab. 

Alexander, Joseph, e. July 30, 1861, died Aug 3, 1862. 

Adams, John H., e. July 30, 1861, disd. Nov. 20, 1862, wd. 

Bradford, John, e. Dec. 15, 1861, disd. May 17, 1862. 

Brewster, Joseph W., e. July 30, 1861, trans, to non-com - 
staff. 
| Brooks, E. L., e. July 30, 1861. 

Bobb, Isaac, e. July 30, 1801, disd. Dec. 25, 1862. 
| Brace, S. N., e. July 30, 1861, vet. 

Bamberger, E., e. July 30, 1861, disd. for promotion, Oct. 
20, 1863. 
I Chown, Joseph N., e. July 30, 1861. 
! Cross, Levi, e. July 30, 1861, disd. Aug. 13, 1862, disab. 
! Clingman, William, e. July 30, '61, kid. at Ft. Donelson. 
. Cramer, D. N., e. July 30, 1861, kid. at Ft. Donelson. 
! Cradler, Joseph, e. July 30, 1861, as vet. 
! Dereham, David, e. Dec. 11, 1861, trans, from 109 111. Inf.. 

disd. May 5, 1863, disab. 
| Dunham, Christopher, e. July 30, 1861, trans, to cav. 
i Frain, William, e. July 30, 1861, disd. May 17, 1862. 
! Fry, John W., e. July 30, 1861, died Oct. 17, 1862. 
i French, D. H., e. July 30, 1861, disd. May 17, 1862. 
i Figely. William, e. July 30, 1861. 

Ferrin, Harvey, e. July 30, 1861, disd. May 17, 1862. 

Forbes, John, e. July 30, 1861. 

Graham, D. F., e. July 30, 1861, kid. at Ft. Donnlson. 

Gillet, John, e. July 30, 1861. 

Gillapp, Henry, e. July 30, 1861, disd. July 18, '62, disab. 

Gravenwold, Henry, e. July 30, 1861, kid. at Ft. Donelson. 

Hurlburt, E. D., e. July 30, 1861, as vet. 

Hayes, Russell A., e. July 30, 1861, disd. Aug. 9, '62, disab. 

Hail, Luther, e. July 30, 1861, disd. Sept. 22, 1864, term- 
expired. 

Hay, Jonathan, e. July 30, 1861, disd. Oct. 13, 1861. 

Hanman, John M.. e. July 30, 1861, kid. at Shiloh. 

Hartman, F. D., e. July 30, 1861, kid. at Shiloh. 

Hile, Samuel, e. July 30, 1861, disd. Nov. 20, 1868, disab. 

Hays, Samuel P., e. Jan. 26, 1865, trans, to 46th 111. Inf. 

Hayes Win., e. July 30, 1861, vet. 

Haight Samuel, e. July 30, 1861, dis. Feb. 9, 1864. 

Ingham Samuel H., e. July 30, 1861, trans. 

Inian Seth, e. July 30, 1861. 

Kassell Nicholas, e. July 30, 1861, disd. Aug. 14, '62, disab. 

Kearney Francis, e. July 30,1861, m. o. Nov. 4,1864, terra 
expired. 

Kline Eli, e. July 30, 1861, disd. Aug. 21, 1862, disab. 

Kailey Jos., e. July 30, 1861, kid. Ft. Donelson. 

Lamb John, e. Sep. 27, 1x61, disd. May 17, 1863. 

Loveland J. H., e. July 30, 1861, vet. 

Lambert F., e. July 30, 1861, kid. Vicksburg, May 22, '63. 

Lamb Thomas, e. July 30, 1861. 

Lutz Chas. H., e. July 30, 1801, vet. 

Lied Edwin, e. July 30. 1861, disd. Nov. 20, 1862, disab. 

Lyon George W., e. Juiy 30, 1861. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



317 



Lynch Jcs. J., e. July 30, 1861, disd. Sept. 14, 1864, term 
expired. 

McGhee James J., July 30, 1861, vet. 

McCormick D., July 30, 1861, disd. Aug. 14, 1862, disab. 

McGlouthling R., e. July 30, 1861, disd. Sep. 30, '62bisab. 

Marian Jacob, e. July 30, 1861, vet. 

Pratt Joseph, e. July 30, 1861. 

Patterson Arthur, e. July 30, 1861, vet. 

Parker II. M., e. July 31, 1861, disd. for promotion. 

Pope H. H., e. July 30, 1801, disd. May 17, 1862. 

Roe John M., e. July 30, 1861, vet. 

Koss Isaac M., e. July 30, 1861, kid. Ft. Donelson. 

Smith 0. F., e. July 30, 1861, m. o. July 29, 1864, term ex- 
pired. 

Slough M., e. July 30, 1861, trans, to corps. 

Stoner H. C, e. July 30, 1861, vet. 

Stoner Saul, e. July 30, 1861. 

Shoemaker Anson, e. July 30. 1861, disd. May 17, 1862. 

Smith Benj. e. July 30, 1861, disd Feb. 1862, disab. 

Sidle John, e. July 30, "61, disd. July 30, '64, term expired. 

Svphep Annias, e. Sep. 27, 1861, disd. Nov. 24, 1861, disab. 

Thompson John A., e. July 30. 1861, kid. Ft. Donelson. 

Templeton David, e. July 30, 1861, disd. May 17, 1862. 

Trimper John, e. July 30, 1861, kid. Ft. Donelson. 

Taylor John B., e. July 30, 1861, disd. Nov. 30, 1863, disab. 

Weaver M. S., e. July 30, 1861, died Sept. 2, 1861. 

Woodring Uriah, e. July 30, 1861, disd. May 17, 1862. 

Wohlford Aaron, e. July 30, 1861. 

Wohlford Jerit, e. July 30, 186U 

Wohlford Geo., e. July, 30, 1861, promtd. Corp., died Aug. 
29 1863 

Wohlford Jos., e. July 30, 1861, promtl. Corpl. 

Wentz James, e. July 30, 1861. 

Williams F. J., e. Sep. 27, 1861, disd. Oct. 14, 1862, disab. 

Company D. 

Clement, Louis e. Aug. 15, 1861, died July 27, 1864, wd. 

FIFTEENTH INFANTRY. 

The Fifteenth Regiment Infantry, Illinois 
Volunteers, was organized at Freeport, 111., and 
mustered into the United States service May 
24, 1861 — being the first regiment organized 
from the State for the three-years service. It 
then proceeded to Alton, 111., remaining there 
six weeks for instruction. Left Alton for St. 
Charles, Mo.; thence by rail to Mexico, Mo. 
Marched to Hannibal, Mo.; thence by steam- 
boat to Jefferson Barracks ; then by rail to 
Rolla, Mo. Arrived in time to cover Gen. Sie- 
gel's retreat from Wilson's Creek ; thence to 
Tipton, Mo., and thence joined Gen. Fremont's 
army. Marched from there to Springfield, Mo.; 
thence back to Tipton ; then to Sedalia, with 
Gen. Pope, and assisted in the capture of 1,300 
of the enemy a few miles from the latter place ; 
then marched to Otterville, Mo., where it went 
into winter quarters December 26, 1861. Re- 
mained there until Februarv 1, 1862. Then 
marched to Jefferson City : thence to St. Louis 
by rail ; embarked on transports for Fort Don- 
elson, arriving there the day of the surrender. 

The regiment was then assigned to the Fourth 
Division, Gen. Hurlbut commanding, and 
marched to Fort Henry. Then embarked on 
transports for Pittsburg Landing. Partici- 
pated in the battles of the 6th and 7th of April, 
losing 252 men killed and wounded. Among 
the former were Lieut. Col. E. T. W. Ellis. Maj. 
Goddard, Capts. Brownell and Wayne, and 
Lieut. John W. I'uterbaugh. ('apt. Adam Nase, 
wounded and taken prisoner. The regiment 
then marched to Corinth, participating in var- 
ious skirmishes and the siege of that place, 
losing a number of men killed and wounded. 

After the evacuation of Corinth, the regiment 



marched to Grand Junction ; thence to Holly 
Springs ; back to Grand Junction ; thence to 
La Grange ; thence to Memphis, arriving there 
July 21, 1862, and remained there until Sep- 
tember 6. Then marched to Bolivar; thence 
to the Hatchie River, and participated in the 
battle of the Hatchie. Lost fifty killed and 
wounded in that engagement. Then returned 
to Bolivar; frora thence to La Grange; thence, 
with Gen. Grant, down through Mississippi to 
Coffeeville. returning to La Grange and Mem- 
phis ; thence to Vicksburg, taking an active part 
in the siege of that place. After the surrender 
of Vicksburg, marched with Sherman to Jack- 
son, Miss.; then returned to Vicksburg and 
embarked for Natchez. Marched thence to 
Kingston ; returned to Natchez ; then to Har- 
risonburg, La., capturing Fort Beauregard, on 
the Washita River. Returned to Natchez, re- 
mained there until November 10, 1863. Pro- 
ceeded to Vicksburg and went into winter 
quarters. Here the regiment re-enlisted as 
veterans, remaining until February 1, 1864, 
when it moved with Gen. Sherman through 
Mississippi. On Champion Hills had a severe 
engagement with rebel Carney. Marched to 
Meridian ; thence south to Enterprise ; thence 
back to Vicksburg. Was then ordered to Illi- 
nois on veteran furlough. On expiration of 
furlough joined Seventeenth Army Corps, and 
proceeded up the Tennessee River to Clifton ; 
thence to Huntsville, Ala.; thence to Decatur 
and Rome, Ga.; thence to Kingston, and joined 
Gen. Sherman's Army, marching on Atlanta. 

At Allatoona Pass, the Fifteenth and the 
Fourteenth Infantry were consolidated, and the 
organization was known as the Veteran Battal- 
ion Fourteenth and Fifteenth Illinois Infantry 
Volunteers, and numbering 625 men. From 
Allatoona Pass it proceeded to Ackworth, and 
was then assigned to duty, guarding the Chat- 
tanooga & Atlanta Railroad. While engaged 
in this duty, the regiment being scattered along 
the line of road, the rebel Gen. Hood, march- 
ing north, struck the road at Big Shanty and 
Ackworth, and captured about 300 of the com- 
mand. The remainder retreated to Marietta, 
were mounted, and acted as scouts for Gen. 
Vandever. They were afterward transferred 
to Gen. F. P. Blair, and marched with Gen. 
Sherman through Georgia. 

After the capture of Savannah, the regi.i.ent 
proceeded to Beaufort, S. C; thence to Salka- 
hatchie River, participating in the various 
skirmishes in that vicinity — Columbia, S. C.j 
Fayetteville, N. C; battle of Bentonville — 
losing a number wounded ; thence to Goldsboro 
and Raleigh. At Raleigh, recruits sufficient to 
fill up both regiments were received, and the 
organization of the Veteran Battalion discon- 
tinued, and the Fifteenth re-organized. The 
campaign of Gen. Sherman euded by the sur- 
render of Gen. Johnston. The regiment then 
marched with the army to Washington, D. C, 
via Richmond and Fredericksburg, and partici- 
pated in the grand review at Washington, May 
24, 1865; remain 2, there two weeks. Pro- 
ceeded, by rail and steamboat, to Louisville, 



318 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY, 



Ky.; remained at Louisville two weeks. The 
regiment was then detached from the Fourth 
Division, Seventeenth Army Corps, and pro- 
ceeded by steamer to St. Louis ; from thence to 
Fort Leavenworth, K;in., arriving there July 1, 
1865. Joined the army serving on the plains. 
Arrived at Fort Kearney August 14 ; then 
ordered to return to Fort Leavenworth Septem- 
1, 1865, where the regiment was mustered out 
of the service and placed en route for Spring- 
field, 111., for final payment and discharge- 
having served four years and four months. 

Number of miles marched 4,290 

Number of miles by rail 2,403 

Number of miles by steamer 4,310 

Total miles traveled 11,012 

Number of men joined from organization. 1,963 
Number of men at date of muster-out.... 640 

Col. Thomas J.Turner com. May 14, 1861, res. Nov. 2, 
1862. 

Maj. William R. Goddard, com. June 26, 1861, kid. Pitts- 
burg Landing. 

Mai. Rufus C. McEathorn, com. 1st lieut. Co. G., April 
24, 1861, prmtd. capt. April 2, 1862, prmtd. maj. July 
7, 1863. 

Surgeon William J. McKim, com. May 14, 1861, hon. 
disd. March 21, 1865. 

First Asst. Surg. John W. Van Valzah, com. April 11, 
1862, died about August 9, 1863. 

Fife Maj. John H. Griffith, e. Dec. 21, 1863 

Hospital Stewart, H. H. McAfee 

Assisiant Surgeon, J. N. DeWitt. 

Company A. 

Henry Williams, Warren W. Armstrong, John S. Smith, 
George W.' Whitney, James Hodges and Charles S- 
Page. 

Company B. 

Samuel Aikey, Joseph H. Fleaury, Patrick McNicholas. 

Company C. 

Alfred Broadee, Joseph Clark 

Company D 

Hotchkiss, W. N, e. May 24, 1861, vet. Dec. 3, 1863. 
Barnes, William G., e. May 24, 1861, vet. Jan. 1, 1864, 

Co. E. 
Deye, Emanuel, e. May 24, 1861, died May 5, 1862, wds. 
Freman, Alfred, e. May 24, 1861, vet. Jan. 1, 1864. 
Smith, William H., e. May 24, 1861, vet. Jan. 1, 1864. 
Giltner, Conrad, e. May 26, 1862, vet. Jan. 1, 1864. 
Hyortas, Julius 0., e. May 24, 1861, disd. Aug. 11, 1862, 

dsab. 
Hawkins, John H , e. March 26, 1862, vet. Jan. 1, 1864. 
Protexter, Christian, e. May 26, 1861, vet. Jan. 1, 1862. 
Shattuck, Abner, e. May 26, 1861, disd. Dec. 15, 1862, 

disab. 
Smith, Charles, e. May 26, 1861, died April 22, 1862. 
Krink, Jonas, e. June 3, 1861, vet. Jan. 1, 1864. 
Miere, Oscar, e June 3, 1861. 
Prjuse, William H., e. Sept. 12, 1861. 
Wilson, Robert B., e. June 3, 1861, vet. Jan. 1, 1864. 

Company F. 

Sweden, Dietrich, e. May 24, 1861. 
Luttig, Henry, e. Jan. 1, 1864. 

Jordan, Frank A., e. Nov. 2, 1861, disd. Nov. 14, 1863, 
disab. 

Company C. 

Capt. James 0. P. Burnside, com. May 15, 1861, m. o. April 

2, 1862. 
Capt. Albert Bliss, Jr., com. 2d lieut. April 24, 1861, 

prmtd. 1st lieut. April 2, 1862, prmtd. capt. July 7, 

1863, m. o. at Consolidation. 
First Lieut. Hubbard P. Sweet, e. as 1st sergt. May 24, 

1861, prmtd. 2d lieut. April 2, 1862, prmtd 1st lieut. 

July 7, 1863, m. o. at Consolidation. 



Sergt. Robert Reeder, e. May 24, 1861, disd. Oct. 17, 1861, 

disab. 
Sergt. Waterman Ells, e. May 24, 1861, vet., trans, to Co. 

B, Vet. Bat. 
Sergt. John W. Foil, e. May 24, 1861, disd. May 1, 1863, 

disab. 
Sergt. Lansing Ells, e. May 24, 1861, disd. Oct. 17, 1861, 

disab. 
Corp. William T. House, e. May 24, 1861. 
Corp James Aurand, e. May 24, 1861, disd. Jan. 1, 1862, 

disab. 
Corp. Albeit V. S. Butler, e. May 24, 1861, died Jan. 4, 

1864. 
Corp. Thomas J. Kaufman, e. May 24, 1861. 
Corp. George L. Stevens, e. May 24, 1861, disd. Oct. 19, 

1862, disab. 
Corp. Hood Hazlett, e. May 24, 1861. 
Corp. Daniel J. Keeley, e. May 24, 1861. 
Allen, William, e. Dec. 1, 1863, trans to Co. B, Vet. Bat. 
Auk, Jacob, e. May 24, 1861. 

Addis, Jacob R., e. May 24, 1861, disd. Jan. 1, 1862, disab. 
Aikey, Martin, e. May 24, 1861. 
Aurand, George C, e. May 24, 1861. 

Bailey, R. B., e. May 24, 1861, kid. at Shiloh April 6, 1862. 
Brigham, Lewis D., e. May 24, 1861, disd. Jan. 11, 1862, 

disab. 
Braham, August, e. May 24, 1861, died Dec. 19, 1863. 
Bowker, Homer H., e. May 24, 1861. *> 

Bowker, James M., e. May 24, 1861, died Aug. 17, 1861. 
Barnes, William G., e. May 24, 1861, trans, to Co. E. 
Ballinger, Burroughs W., e. Sept. 23, 1861, disd. Aug. 15, 

1862, disab. 
Burrell Henry, e. Sept. 30, 1861. 

Company C. 

Barden. George R.,e. March 31, 1864. 

Barber Geo. E., e. March 31, 1864. 

Buswell Wm. J., e. May 24, died Oct. 14, 1863. 

Bahan John, e. May 24, '61, vet., trans, to Co. B, vet. bat. 

Brien B. 0., e. May 24,1861, disd. Oct. 17, 1861, disab. 

Brown Alex., e. May 24, 1861, disd May 1, 1863, disab. 

Cox James H., e. May 24, 1861, disd. Oct. 17, 1861, disab. 

Christenson Claus, e. May 24, 1861. 

Cassidy Wm. J., e. May 24, 1861, disd. Nov. 1, 1862, wd. 

Calhoun John P., e. May 24, 1861, disd. Jan. 1, 1862, disab. 

Cair Geo., e. May 24, 1861, disd. Aug. 20, 1862, disab. 

Callen John, e. May 24, 1861. 

DeWitt N. J., e. June 23, '61, v"t., prmtd. hospital steward. 

Davenport Lucius, e. May 24, 1861, disd. Oct.17, 1861, disab. 

Denton E S., e. May 24, 1861, vet., trans, to Co. B, vet. bat. 

Denton Chas. E., e. May 24, 1861. 

Doyle Mathew, e. May 24, 1S61, kid. at Shiloh, April 6,'62. 

Ehrman, Florence, e. May 24,1861, disd.|Keb.4, '63, disab. 

Ferguson, N. M., e. May 24, 1861, disd. Jan. 17, 1862. 

French, Geo. W., e. May 24, 1861. 

Fox, John C, e. May 24, 1861, disd. May 18, 1862, disab. 

Feely, Duncan MacD., e. May 24,"61, disd.April 17,'63, disab. 

Gardner, Jerome, e. Oct. 1, 1861, disd. Oct. 19, 1862, disab. 

Garner, John D. F., e. May 24, 1861, vet. trans, to vet. bat. 

Co. B. 
Gittner, John C, e. May 24, 1861. 

Gittner, R. D., e. May 24, 1861, disd. July 28, 1862, disab. 
Girton, John W., e. May 24, 1861. 
Gintter. John, e. May 24, 1861, dis. Feb. 7, 1862, disab. 
Hayes, Charles G., e. May 24, 1861. 
Heiser, Wm. H., e. May 24, 1861, vet. Jan. 1, 1864, trans . 

to Co. B, vet. bat. 
Hoag, Leonard H., e. May 24, 1861. 

Hofte, John, e. Dec. 1, 1863, vet. trans, to Co. B, vet. bat. 
Hackman, John W., e. May 24, 1861. 
Hays, A. A., e. May 24, 1861, m. o. May 24, 1864. 
Hays, Martin, e. May 19, 1864, trans, to Co. B, vet. bat. 
Hayes. Wm., e. May 24, 1861, trans, to invalid corps. 
Illingsworth, Jos., e. June 17, '61, disd. Jan. 1. '62, disab. 
Kline, M. V., e. May 24, 1861, died Nov. 8, 1861. 
Kinsman, Richard, e. May 24, 1861, vet. Jan. 1,1864, trans. 

to Co. B, vet. bat. 
Lawver, M. A,, e. March 31, 1861, trans, to Co. B, vet. bat. 
Laurer, Lewis, e. May 24, 1861, disd. April 8, 1862, disab. 
Landon, Lyman, e. May 24, 1861. 
Ling, E. W., e. May 24, 1861, died Aug. 15, 1862. 
Lambrecht, Max, e. May 24, 1861. 

Milhollin, Daniel, e. Oct. 4, 1861, died June 24, '62, wds. 
Moll, Wm. F., e. May 24, '61, vet. trans, to Co. B, vet. bat. 
Mack, John, e. Dec. 5, 1863. 
Minns, Chas., e. May 24, 1861. 
Mack, Samuel, e. Dec. 5, 1863. 
Murphy, Thomas, e. May 24, 1861. 
Moist, E., e. Dec. 24, 1863, trans, to Co. B, vet. bat. 
Morley, Marshall, e. May 24, 1861, dis. Dec. 16, '62, disab. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



319 



Maloney, Michael, e. April 23, '64, trans, to Co. B.vet.bat. 

Mullen, James, e. May 24, 1861. 

Mathison, Alex., e. May 24, 1861, vet. trans, to Co. B, vet. 

bat. 
McAfee, Henry H., e. May 24, 1861, prmtd. to hospital 

steward. 
Miller, John H., e. May 24, 1861, dis. Oct. 17, 1861, disab. 
Noble, Geo. W., e. May 24, 1862, vet. 
Niemeyer, John, e. May 24, '61, kid. at Shiloh April 6, '62. 
Philips, Hugh, e. May 24, 1861, died Jan. 6, 1862. 
Pickel, Henry, e. May 24, '61, vet. trans, to vet. bat. Co. B. 
Patton, Wm. P., e. May 24, 1861, dis. Dec. 10, 1862, disab. 
Preston, Geo. L., March 31, 1864, trans, to Co. B. vet. bat. 
Palmer, John T., e. May 24, 1861,disd. Oct 17,1861, disab. 
Reeder, John, disd. June 14, 1862, disab. 
Randall, Geo. H., e. May 24, 1861, disd. Sep. 2, 1862, wd. 
Roes, Walter J., e. May 24, 1861. 
Rush, Peter, e. May 24, 1861, disd. Oct. 17, 1861, disab. 
Rishel, John G., e. May 24, 1861, disd. Oct. 17, 1861. 
Rees, Daniel J., e. May 24, 1861. 

Rohback, Jacob, e. May 24, 1861, disd. Aug. 20, 1862, disab. 
Seymour, Oliver, e. May 31, 1861. 
Sasman, D. W., May 24, 1861, disd. Oct. 18, 1862. 
Sigler, John B., e. May 24, 1861. 
Shiney, Sylvester, e. May 24, 1861, vet. trans, to Co. B. Vet. 

Bat. 
Shinkle, Geo. W., e. May 24, 1861, vet., Jan. 1, 1864, trans. 

to Co. B. Vet. Bat. 
Stites, David R. P., e. Sept. 23, 1861, kid. at Shiloh, April 

6, 1862. 
Shrove, Wm. H., e. May 24, 1861, disd. 0ctJ7, '61, disab. 
Snyder, Egbert, e. Sep. 30, 1861, disd. Dec. 1?, 1862, disab. 
Shinkle, E. R., e. May 24, 1861. 
Stull, James, e. Sep. 1, 1862, trans, to Co. B vet. bat. 
Shrove, Daniel, e. May 24, 1861, disd. Feb. 1862, disab. 
Sturm, Henry, e. May 31, 1864, trans, to Co. B. vet. bat. 
Solace, E. D., e. May 24, 1861, died April 8, 1862, wd. 
Savidge, Robt. S., e. May 24, 1861, disd. July 28, 1862, wd. 
Tull, Chas. H., e. Sep. 23, 1861, vet. 
Tenant, Owen, May 24, 1861, died April, 1862, wd. 
Trepus, Daniel, Sept. 2, 1862, trans to vet. bat. 
Twogood, Luther J., e. May 24, 1861. 
Wite, John E., e. March 30, 1864, trans to vet. bat. 
Wheeler, John S., e. May 24. 1861, kid. at Shiloh. 
Toder, John B., e. May 24, 1861. 

FOURTEENTH (REORGANIZED) 
INFANTRY. 

Company K. 

Blankenehip, John, e. March 9, 1865. 
Rollins, Solomon W., e. March 9, 1865. 

FOURTEENTH AND FIFTEENTH 
BATTALION. 

Maj Rufus McEathorn, com. July 7, 1863, m. o. Aug' 

1,1864. 
Surg. Wm. J. McKim, com. May 14, 1861. 

FIFTEENTH (REORGANIZED) 
INFANTRY. 

Surg. Wm. J. McKim, com. May 14, 1861, hon. disd. Dec. 
22, 1864. 

Company B. 

Sergt. Waterman Ells, e. Jan. 1, 1864. 
Sergt. William F. Mall, e. Jan. 1, 1864. 
Corp. John D. F. Garner, e. Jan. 1. 1864. 
Corp. Erastus Denton, e Jan. 1, 1864, vet. 
Musician Oliver Seymour, e. Jan. 1, 1864. 
Allen, William, e. Dec. 1, 1863. 
Beham, John, e. March 1, 1864. 
Barden, George, R., e. March 31, 1864. 
Barber, Geo. E., e. March 31, 1864. 
Foreman, Alfred, Jan. 1, 1864. 
Huffee, John, e. Dec. 1, 1863. 
Hayes, Martin, e March 19, 1864. 
Heiser, Henry, e. Jan. 1, 1864. 
Kinsman, Richard, e. Jan. 1, 1864. 
Lawver, M. A., e. March 31, 18(i4. 
Maloney, Michael, e. April 23, 1864. 
Mook, Samuel, e. Dec. 5, 1863. 
Moist, Ephraim, e. Dec. 24, 1863. 



Noble, George W. 

Preston, Geo.L.,e. March 31 , 1864. 

Potter, Sanuel. 

Shuler, Thomas. 

Stull, James, e. Sept. 1, 1862. 

Starn, Henry, e. Mrrch 31, 1864. 

Trepus, Daniel, e. Sept. 26, 1862. 

White, John E., e. March 30 1864. 

Company C. 

Hotchkiss, W. N., e. Dec. 16, 1863. 
Perry, James H., e. March 17, 1862. 
Price, William, e. Dec. 18, 1863. 
Staplin, George W., e. April 1, 1862. 

Company E. 

Armstrong, W. W., e. Jan. 1, 1864. 

Hawkins, John H.. e. March 26, 1864, died Sept. 14, 1864. 

Luttig, Henry, e. Jan. 1, 1864. 

Protexter, Chris, e. Jan. 1, 1864. 

Prouse, William H., e. Sept. 12, 1861, m. o. Sept. 23, 1864. 

Page, Charles S., e. April 27, 1864. 

Pabst, Charles H. C, e. Jan. 1, 1864. 

Steekle, Reuben, e. Jan. 1, 1864. 

Smith, William H., e. Jan. 1, 1864. 

Steves, Thomas M., e. Jan. 1, 1864. 

Smith, John H., e. Jan. 1, 1864. 

Whitney, George W., e. Jan. 1, 1864, disd. March 27, 1865. 

Company C. 

Fessenden, E. A., e. March 2, 1865. 
Gill, Richard H., e. March 2, 1865. 

Company H. 

Fowler, William, e. March 2, 1865. 

TWENTY-SIXTH INFANTRY. 

The Twenty-sixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry 
was mustered into the United States service, 
with seven companies, at Camp Butler, Illi- 
nois, August 31, 1861, and were ordered to 
Quincy, 111., for the protection of that place. 
Not having been armed, the regiment did 
guard duty with hickory clubs. During the 
autumn, the regiment did guard duty on the 
Hannibal & St. Joseph Railroad, and were 
armed with old English Tower muskets — Col. 
John Mason Loomis commanding post at Han- 
nibal. Prior to January 1, }862, three more 
companies were raised, completing the organi- 
zation. February 19, 1862, they left Hanni- 
bal, Mo., for the South, stopping at Commerce, 
where the regiment was assigned to Brig. Gen. 
J. B. Plummer's Brigade, Brig. Gen. Schuyler 
Hamilton's Division, Maj. Gen. John Pope's 
Corps. They arrived at New Madrid March 
3, and were engaged in action there ; marched 
to Point Pleasant, and, arriving on the 6th, 
engaged rebel gunboats with sharp-shooters 
and prevented the landing of the enemy; 
marched to intercept the flyiDg enemy from 
Island Number 10, and assisted in capturing 
many prisoners. After remaining some time at 
New Madrid, joined an expedition against Fort 
Pillow ; returning, proceeded up the Ohio and 
Tennessee Puvers. to Hamburg Landing ; took 
part in the eiege of Corinth ; May 8 and 9, were 
engaged at Farmington, the regiment losing five 
killed and thirty wounded, Lieut. Col. Charles J. 
Tinkham was among the wounded ; Col. Loomis 
commanded the brigade, and Gen. Stanley the 
division. May 28, engaged the enemy one 
mile from Corinth, the regiment losing four 
killed and twenty-five wounded ; Maj. Gilmore 



320 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



was wounded. Company G-, of the Twenty- 
sixth, was the first to enter Corinth on evacua- 
tion by the enemy; engaged in the pursuit to 
Booneville, and returned to Clear Creek, four 
miles from Corinth. June 23, ordered to Dan- 
ville, Miss., where we remained till August 18, 
1862, at which time we joined the brigade 
commanded by Col. R. C. Murphy, Eighth Wis- 
consin, and marched for Tuscumbia ; arrived 
21st; September 8, with Forty-seventh and 
Twenty-sixth, Lieut. Col. Tinkham command- 
ing, marched to Clear Creek; September 18, 
marched for Iuka ; 19th, were engaged with 
the enemy, in a brigade commanded by Lieut. 
Col. J. A. Mower, of the Eleventh Aiissouri; 
the enemy evacuating in the night, we joined 
in the pursuit, arriving at Corinth October 3, 
and participating in the battle of Corinth ; 
after the battle, followed the retreating enemy 
as far as Ripley. Ten days afterward, arrived 
again at Corinth, where we stayed until Novem- 
ber 2. Marched, via Holly Junction, Holly 
Springs and Lumpkin's Mill toward Tallahatch- 
ie River, the enemy being fortified on the south 
side of the river. The regiment was here de- 
tailed to guard a commissary train to Hudson- 
viile, during the trip, losing two men killed 
and two wounded by guerrillas ; ordered to 
Holly Springs for guard duty ; thence to Ox- 
ford, Miss., where we remained until December 
20; ordered to Holly Springs, to prevent the 
capture of that place: on the 21st, reached 
that place, the enemy having fled ; remained 
here during the year, Col. Loomis command- 
ing the post, and Lieut. Col. Gilmore as chief 
of outposts. 

In the beginning of the year 1863, the post 
at Holly Springs was broken up and the army 
fell back to La Grange, Tenn., where the regi- 
ment was assigned to duty as provost guard, 
Col. Loomis commanding the post. Here it 
remained until March 8. 

March 3, the regiment was brigaded with 
the Ninetieth Illinois, Twelfth and One Hun- 
dredth Indiana, Col. Loomis commanding. 
March 8, the brigade marched from La Grange 
to Collierville, Teun., where they remained 
three months, engaged in fortifying the place 
and defending the railroad against guerrillas 
and bushwhackers. June 7, left Collierville 
for Memphis. The following day they embarked 
for Haines' Bluff. The regiment subsequently 
went into camp at Oak Ridge, where it remained 
until after the fall of Vicksburg. On the aft- 
ernoon of July 4, started in pursuit of the 
retreating forces of Gen. Johnson. The siege 
of Jackson was marked by severe skirmishing, 
in one of which ('apt. James A. Dugger, of 
Company C, was instantly killed by a round 
shot through the breast, and a number of men 
were killed and wounded. About the 22d of 
July, began the march back to Vicksburg, and 
when the troops crossed Black River they went 
into camp for the summer. September 28, the 
encampment was broken up and the regiment 
marched into Vicksburg, and there embarked 
for Memphis, where it arrived on the 7th of 



October. Here a few days were given for the 
purpose oi outfitting the men, preparatory for 
the long march across the country from Mem- 
phis to Chattanooga, to relieve the besieged 
Army of the Cumberland. The march began 
at 8 A. M.. October 11 ; arrived at Bridgeport 
November 15, and. on the 24th and 25th, took 
an active part in the battle of Mission Ridge, 
losing, in killed and wounded, one hundred 
and one officers and men. Among the officers 
severely wounded were Lieut. Col. Gilmore, 
Capt. James P. Davis, Company B, Adjutant 
Edward A. Tucker and Lieut. William Polk, 
Company B. The next morning, started before 
daylight, in pursuit of the defeated and flying 
enemy ; followed them to Ringgold, Ga.; burnt 
the bridges and destroyed the railroad ; then 
turned to make the march of two hundred miles, 
without supplies, cooking utensils, camp equip- 
age, or change of clothing, to the relief of Gen. 
Burnside, at Knoxville ; returned to Br.dge- 
port in the latter part of December ; were re- 
clothed, paid off, and marched to Scottsboro, 
Ala., and went into winter quarters. 

January 1, 1864, there were five hundred 
and fifteen men present for duty, of whom four 
hundred and sixty-three" re-enlisted as vete- 
rans. Of sixty-one men present in Company 
K, sixty re-enlisted. 

January 12, started home on veteran fur- 
lough. At the expiration of furlough, returned 
to the field with ranks well filled with recruits. 
Arrived at old camp at Scottsboro, March 
3, and remained there until May 1, when it 
started on the great Atlanta campaign. The 
regiment was actively engaged in all the 
marches, skirmishes and battles which finally 
resulted in the capture of Atlanta. On the 3d 
of August, a detail of nine hundred men was 
made from the division, to charge the enemy's 
skirmish line. The charge was to be made 
over an old field, covered with high grass, a 
distance of about four hundred yards. When 
the signal was given, the men started on a 
keen run for the rebel works. Private John 
S. Wilson, of Company D, Twenty-sixth Illi- 
nois, a stout, active fellow, outran the rest, 
and suddenly found himself alone in front of a 
rebel pit, which had been concealed by the tall 
grass, filled with seventeen men and a commis- 
sioned officer. He drew up his musket and 

told them to " fight or run, and that d 1 

quick." All surrendered except the officer, 
who started to run, and he shot him. It was 
laughable to see " Buck," as he was called, 
marching back with his seventeen prisoners. 
By order of Gen. Logan, he retained the offi- 
cer's sword and a fine Whitney rifle, found in 
the pit, and now has them at home, as memen- 
toes of his gallantry. After the fall of Atlanta, 
most of the old officers were mustered out of 
the expiration of their term of service. Only 
two of the original officers remained, one at 
whom, Capt. Ira J. Bloorafield, Company K, 
was made Colonel of the regiment. About the 
same time, the Fourth Division, Fifteenth Army 
Corps, was broken up, and the regiment was 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



321 



transferred to the First Division of the same 
corps, with which it remained until the close 
•of the war. 

The regiment did some hard marching, fol- 
lowing Hood up toward Chattanooga, and off 
into Northern Alabama; then returned to At- 
lanta; were paid and reclothed, preparatory 
to " marching through Georgia.'' 

The Twenty-sixth was engaged in the action 
of Griswoldville, siege 'of Savannah, and cap- 
ture of Fort McAlister. A short time after the 
fall of Savannah, the regiment was ordered to 
Beaufort, S. C, and remained on duty there 
and at Port Royal Ferry until the commence- 
ment of the northward march through the Car- 
olinas ; were among the first regiments into 
Columbia, and were hotly engaged in the bat- 
tle of Bentonville. Here the regiment was or- 
dered to carry the bridge across Mill Creek, 
which was strongly guarded by the enemy. 
The regiment charged and carried it, but lost a 
number of good men. Sergt. Smith, of Com- 
pany K.. color bearer, was charging at the 
head of the column, across the bridge, and was 
shot, the colors falling into the stream. The 
enemy rushed forward to secure them, but 
Lieut. Webster, with Company E, charged, drove 
them back, and saved the colors. Col. Bloom- 
field had his horse shot under him, and nar- 
rowly escaped himself. 

Remained at Goldsboro, N. C, a few days, 
and, April 10, began the march against Ra- 
leigh. Left Raleigh May 1, for Washington, 
via Richmond; participated in the grand review 
at Washington ; transported by rail to Parkers- 
burg, Va.; thence by boat to Louisville, Ky., 
where it remained in camp until July 20, 1865, 
when it was mustered out of service and started 
for Springfield, 111., for final payment and dis- 
charge. July 28, the regiment was paid off 
and disbanded. 

The regiment had marched, during its four 
years of service, six thousand nine hundred 
and thirty-one miles, fought twenty-eight hard 
battles, beside innumerable skirmishes. They 
were permitted, by the orders of the command- 
ing General, to place upon their banners " New 
Madrid," " Island No. 10," " Farmington," 
'•Siege of Corinth,' "Iuka," " Corinth, 3d 
and 4th October, 1862," " Holly Springs," 
" Yicksburg," " Jackson, Miss.," "Mission 
Ridge," " Resaca," " Kenesaw," " Ezra 
Church," " Atlanta," "Jonesboro," "Gris- 
woldville," "McAllister," "Savannah," "Co- 
lumbia," "Bentonville.'" 

Lieut. Col. George H. Eeed, com. 1st Lieut. Co. B Aug. 
28, 1861, prmtd. Capt. Mav 17, 1864, prmtd. Maj. June 
6, 1865. 

Company B. 

Capt. James P. Davis, com. May 28, 1861. hon. died. March 

30, 1864. 
Capt. Theodore Schermerhorn, e. as (? | corp. Aug. 15, 1861, 

prmtd. 2d lieut. March 5, 1864, prmtd. 1st lieut. May 

14, 1864, prmtd. capt. June 6, 1865. 
First Lieut. William Polk, com. 2d lieut. Aug. 28, 1861, 

prmtd. 1st lieut. May 4, 1863, res. May 14, 1864. 
First Lieut. David Layser, e. as corp. Aug. 15, 1861, vet. 

Jan. 1, 1864, prmtd. 1st lieut. June 6, 1865. 
Sergt. William Quinn, e. Aug. 15, 1861, disd. Oct. 31, 

1862, disab. 



Sergt. James P. Dursk, e. Aug. 15, 1861, prmtd Q. M- 

sergt., vet. 
Sergt. William J. Irvin, e. Aug. 15, 1861, vet. 
Sergt. Jonas Andrew, e. August 15, 1861, vet. Jan. 1, 1864. 
Corporal James P. Winters, e. Aug. 15, 1861, died Oct. 10, 

1862. 
Addams, C. H., e. Aug. 15, 1861, vet. Jan. 1, 1864. 
Buckley, Daniel, e. Aug. 15, 1861, trans, to Co. H. 
Buckley, Patrick, e. Aug. 15, 1861, trans, to Co. H. 
Buckley, John, e. Aug. 15, 1861, trans, to Co. H. 
Berry, Edwin, e. Feb. 12, 1S64. 

Bentley, William, e. Aug. 15, 1861, disd. July 16, 1862. 
Blake, F. W., e. Aug. 15, 1861, trans, to Co. I. 
Bear, F. H., e. Aug. 15, 1861, vet. Jan. 1, 1864. 
Burns, Francis, e. Aug. 15. 1861, trans, to Co. I. 
Butcher, James, e. Aug. 15, 1861, prmtd. corp., vet. Jan. 

1, 1864, died Oct. 31, 1864. 
Burk, John J., e. Aug. 15, 1861, disd. Aug. 28, 1864, term 

expired. 
Baker, Philip, e. Aug. 15, 1861, kid. Farmington, Miss., 

May 9, 1862. 
Bokof, Harmon, e. Aug. 15, 1861, vet. Jan. 1, 1864, m. o. 

as corp. 
Cornelius, Samuel, e. Aug. 15, 1861, vet. Jan. 1, 1864. 
Cawley, William, e. Aug. 15, 1861, trans, to Co. I. 
Choppy, Charles, died May 31, 1864, wds. 
Derliug, Israel, e. Aug. 15,1861, vet. Jan. 1, 1864, m. o. as 

corp. 
Dow, Edward, e. Aug. 15, 1862. 
Doll, Dogebert, e. Sept. 18, 1862. 
Fehr, William, e. Oct. 10, 1864. 
Fleekson, Peter, e. Feb. 7, 1864. 
Fannon, Andrew, e. Nov. 3, 1862. 

Eastland, A. J., e. Aug. 15, 1861, trans, to Co. I. , 

Eshlerman, William, e. Aug. 15, 1861, died July 27. 1862. 
Eaton, N. H., e. Aug. 15, 1861, vet., Jan. 1, 1864. 

Frisby, Julius, e. Aug. 15, 1861, died April 2, 1862. 

Forbs, Nathan, e. Aug. 15, 1861, disd. Aug. 28, 1864, term 
expired. 

Foster, K. J., vet. Jan. 1, 1864, m. o. corp. 

Gold Charles, e. Aug. 15, 1861, died Jan. 9, 1864, wd. 

Gartman, Nicholas, e. Aug. 31, 1864. 

Gates Simon, e. Aug. 15, 1861, died Sept. 17, 1863. 

Geiser, John, e. Aug. 20, 1862, died Jan. 2, 1864, wd. 

Garrison, Freeborn, e. Aug. 15, 1861, disd. Aug. 28, 1864, 
term expired. 

Greer, John, e. Aug. 15, 1861, disd. Oct. 13, 1864. 

Hennick, William H., vet. Jan. 1, 1864, m. o. as sergt. 

Hunt, A. B., e. Aug 15, 1861, trans, to Co. H. 

Heise, John, vet. Jan. 1, 1864, died Aug. 19, 1864, wd. 

Henry, John, e. Aug. 15, 1861, trans, to Co. I. 

Hoag, Theodore G. e. Feb. 22. 1864, disd. Nov. 12, '64 disab. 

Hanson Christopher, e. Aug. 15, 1861, disd. July 12, 1862, 
disab. 

Heise, Aaron, e. Feb. 22, 1864. 

Haines, Howard, e. Aug. 15, 1861, Jan. 1, 1864, m. o. as 
as corp. 

Heise, Moses, e. Feb. 22, 1864, died March 22, 1864. 

Haines, Garrison, e. Aug. 15, 1861, disd. Aug. 28, 1864, 
term expired. 

Heller, Jacob, e. Jan. 29, 1864. 

Hiatt, William W., e. Aug. 15, 1861, trans, to Co. I. 

Kane, John, e. Aug. 15, 1861, vet. Jan. 1, 1864, disd. July 
2, 1865. 

Kumnierrer, Tieghman, e. Aug. 15, 1861, disd. March 6, 

1863, disab. 

Kraymer, William H., e. Aug. 15, 1861, vet. Jan. 1, 1864, 
Keegan, James, e. Aug. 15, 1861, trans, to Co. I. 
Kramer, Benj. F., e. Feb. 2, 1864. 
Kruntzler, William, e. Aug. 15, 1861, re-e. vet. Jan. 1, 

1864, m. o. as corp. 
Kouth. Michael, e. Aug. 16, 1862. 

Leonard, Arthur, e. Aug. 15, 1861, trans, to Co. I. 
Lilley, William E., e. Nov. 17, 1863. 
Long, William, e. Aug. 15,'61, died at Iuka' Aug. 28, '62. 
Long, John, e. Aug. 15, 1861, disd. Oct. 13, 1864, term ex- 
pired. 
Long, Jacob H. 
Mieley, Samuel P., e. Aug. 15, 1861, vet. Jan. 1, 1864, m. 

0. as drummer. 

McCoy, Lemuel, e. Aug. 15, 1862, died July 22, 1864, wd. 
Messenger, J. C, e. Aug. 15, 1861, prmtd. corp. vet. 
Montague, Patrick F., e. Aug. 15, 1861, vet. Jan. 1, 1864, 

kid. April 30, 1864. 
Morris, D., e. Aug. 15, 1861, died May 29, 1864, wd. 
Mallick, Franklin, e. Feb. 13, 1864. 
Miller, Bernard, e. Sept. 28, 1861, trans, to V. R. C. May 

1, 1864. 

Miller, A. J., e. vet. Jan. 1 1864, trans, to 147th Inf. as 
1st lieut., Co. G. 



322 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



Melody, Thomas, e. Sept. 28, 1861, vet. Jan 1, 1864. 
Needham, Denaison, Sept. 8, 1861, trans to Co. I. 
Needham, Thomas, Sept. 8, 1861, vet. Jan. 1, 1864. 
Nicholas, Thomas, Aug. 15, kid. at Corinth, Miss., Oct. 

4, 1862. 
Paul, V. A., e. Aug. 15, 1861, vet. Jan. 1, 1864. 
Robnett, James, e. Aug. 15, 1861, disd. Jan. 13, 1863. 
Rice, Frank, e. Feb. 3, 1864, m. o. May 26, 1865, wd. 
Robinold, S. J., e. Aug. 15, 1861, died May 22, 1862. 
Raymer, Charles, e. Feb. 3, 1864, m. o. July 20, 1865. 
Reardon, John, e. Sept. 8, 1861. 
Ryan, James, e. Feb. 2, 1864. 
Smith, Peter E., e. Sept. 8, 1861, vet. Jan. 1, 1864, kid. 

May 13, 1864. 
Smith, Jesse L., e. Feb. 10, 1864. 
Stage, Theo., e. Sept. 8, 1861, vet. March 9, 1864. 
Sting, Rasper, e. Feb. 10, 1864. 
Sigman, Wilson, e. Sept. 8, 1861, prmtd. corp. vet. Jan. 1, 

1864, m. o. as corp. 
Sumner, James R., e. Aug. 19, 1862. 
Seiferman, B., e. Sept. 8, 1861, died Sept. 12, 1862, wd. 
Schmidt, John, e. Aug. 29, 1862, kid. Nov. 25, 1863. 
Sharp, Harwood, e. Feb. 10, 1864. 
Schraeder, Frederick, e. Sept. 2, 1862. 
Sturdevant, Jacob, Jan. 1, 1862. 
Thompson, John F., e. Sept. 8, 1861, disd. Aug. 28, 1864, 

term expired. 
Thompson, Loren, e. Feb. 2, 1864. 
Thompson, Joseph D., Sept. 8, 1861, disd. Aug. 28, 1864, 

term expired. 
Wishart, Thomas, e Aug. 15, 1861, died Nov. 27, 1863. 
Walkey, Joseph, e. Aug. 15, 1861 , died March 22, 1862. 
Wright, N. F., e. Aug. 15, 1861, trans, to Co. D. 
Walton, John, e. Aug. 30. 1862, kid. March 7, 1865. 
Wertz, C. F. 

Company G. 

First Lieut. John Irvin, com. Aug. 31, '62, died Oct. 6, '63. 

Company H. 

Capt. Chas. F. Wertz, com. 2d lieut. Jan. 1, 1862, prmtd. 

1st lieut. Feb. 16, 1862, prmtd. capt. Aug. 22, 1863. 
Capt. Wm. W. Allen, e. as sergt. Aug. 15, 1861, prmtd. 2d 

lieut. Feb. 16, 1863, prmtd. 1st lieut. Aug. 22, 1863, 

prmtd. capt.. declined commission. 
Capt. Robt. Salisbury, e. as corpl. Nov. 1, 1861, vet. Jan. 1, 

1864, prmtd. sergt., then capt. May 19, 1865. 
Sergt. Chas. H. Edmonds, e. Nov. 1, 1861. 
Buckley, John, e. Jan. 1, 1864. 
Beaury, Albert, e. Nov. 1, 1861, vet. Jan. 1, 1864. 
Black, John F., e. Jan. 1, 1864, died Sept. 11, 1864, wds. 
Black, H. L., e. Feb. 3, 1864. 
Buckley, Daniel, e. Aug. 15, 1861, m. o. Sept. 3, 1864, term 

expired. 
Buckley, Patrick, e. Aug. 15,1861, dis. July 11, '62, disab. 
Cross, Hiram A., e. Nov. 1, 1861, m. o. Oct. 31, 1864, term 

expired. 
Deagon, Jos., e. Nov. 1, 1861, vet. Jan. 1, 1864. 
Fye, Daniel, e. Jan. 26, 1864. 
Fye, J. D., e. Jan. 24, 1865. 
Fye, David. 

Grey, Robt, e. Jan. 1, 1864. 
Heintz, Michael, e. Nov. 1, 1861, vet. Jan. 1, 1864. 
Hunt, A. B., e. Aug. 15, 1861. 
Mayer, John, e Nov. 1, 1S61, vet. Jan. 1, 1864. 
Michner, C. W., e. Nov. 1, 1861, m. o. Oct. 31, 1864, term 

expired. 
Rice, A. L.. e. Nov. 1, 1861, died Oct. 15, 1864, wds. 
Reef, Jos. S., e. March 23, 1864, m. o. corpl. 
Rees, Enos S., e. Jan. 24, 1865. 
Rees. John M., e. Jan. 31, 1865. 

Wertz, Jacob, e. Nov. 1, 1861, wd., m. o. Dec. 2, 1864. 
Winters, Abraham, e. Nov. 1, 1861, vet. Jan. 1, 1864. 
Winters. Cyrus, e. Nov. 1, 1861, vet. Jan. 1, 1864, absent, 

wd. at m. o. of regiment. 
Wagoner, Geo., e. Nov. 1, 1861, vet. Jan. 1, 1864, absent 

sick at m. o. of regiment. 

Company I. 

Eastland, A. J., , died August, 1863. 

Blake, F. W., e. Jan. 1, 1864. 

Keegan, James, e. March 12, 1864. kid. July 22, 1864. 

Leonard, Arthur, e. Jan. 1, 1864, absent sick at m. o. of 

regiment. 
Ruff, F. O, e. Jan. l, 1864. 
Reider, Jos., e. Jan. 1, 1864. 

Company K. 

Allison, W. W. 

Cooper, Wm., e. Jan. 1, 1864. 

Sheppard, Charles. 



FORTY-FIFTH INFANTRY. 

The Washburne Lead Mine Regiment was or- 
ganized at Chicago, 111., December 25, 1861, by 
Col. John E. Smith, and mustered into the 
United States service as the Forty-fifth In- 
fantry Illinois Volunteers. January 15, 1862, 
moved to Cairo, 111. February 1, assigned 
to brigade of Col. W. H. L. Wallace, division 
of Brig. Gen. McClernand. February 4, 
landed below Fort Henry, on the Tennessee, 
and on the 6th marched into the fort, it hav- 
ing been surrendered to the gun-boats. Feb- 
ruary 11, moved toward Fort Donelson, and 
during the succeeding days bore its part of 
the suffering and of the battle. The flag of 
the Forty-fifth was the first planted on the 
enemy's works. Loss — 2 killed and 26 
wounded. March 4, moved to the Tennes- 
see River, and 11th, arrived at Savannah. 
AVas engaged in the expedition to Pin Hook. 
March 25' moved to Pittsburg Landing, and 
encamped near Shiloh Church. 

The Forty-fifth took a conspicuous and hon- 
orable part in the two days' battle of Shiloh, 
losing 26 killed and 199 wounded and miss- 
ing — nearlv one-half of the regiment. April 
12, Col. John E. Smith, of the Forty-fifth, 
took command of the brigade. During the 
siege of Corinth, the regiment was in the First 
Brigade, Third Division, Reserve Army of the 
Tennessee, and bore its full share of the labors 
and dangers of the campaign. June 4, the 
regiment was assigned to Third Brigade, and 
moved toward Purdy, fifteen miles. On the 
5th, marched to Bethel ; 7th, fro Montezuma, 
and on the 8th, to Jackson, Tenn., the enemy 
flying on its approach. 

During the months of June and July, en- 
gaged in garrison and guard duty. August 
11, assigned to guarding railroad, near Toon's 
Station. On the 31st, after much desper- 
ate fighting, Companies C and D were cap- 
tured. The remainder of the regiment, con- 
centrating at Toon's Station, were able to 
resist the attack of largely outnumbering 
forces. Loss — 3 killed, 13 wounded, and 43 
taken prisoners. September 17, moved to 
Jackson ; November 2, to Bolivar, and was 
assigned to First Brigade, Third Division, Right 
Wing, Thirteenth Army Corps. November 3, 
1862, marched from Bolivar to Van Buren ; 
4th, to La Grange, and was assigned to Provost 
duty ; 28th, marched to Holly Springs ; De- 
cember 3, to Waterford ; 4th, Abbeville ; 5th, 
to Oxford, to Yocono River, near Spring Dale. 

Communications with the north having been 
cut off, foraged on the country for supplies. 
December 17; notice received of the promo- 
tion of Col. John E. Smith to Brigadier Gen- 
eral, ranking from November 29 ; December 
22, returned to Oxford ; 24th, moved to a 
camp three miles north of Abbeville, on the 
Tallahatchie River, where the regiment re- 
mained during the month. Mustered out 
July 12, 1865, at Louisville, Ky., and arrived 
at Chicago July 15, 1865, for final payment, 
and discharged. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



323 



Company B. 

Capt. Thomas J. Prouty, e. as private, Aug. 30, 1861 ; 

pmtd. sergt.; prmtd. 2d lieut. Nov. 29, 1862 ; pmtd. 

1st lieut. Dec. 25, 1864 ; prmtd. capt. July 9, 1865. 
Hollenbeck, Chas. H., e. Aug. 30, 1861, disd. April 16, 1863, 

wd. 
Prouty, Elijah, e. Aug. 30, 1861, vet. Dec 19, 1863. 
Cressler, Alfred, e. Jan. 5, 1864. 

Company C. 

Sergt. Orrin L. Williams, e. Oct. 1, 1861, m. o. Dec. 24 

1864, term expired. 
Corp. Ephraim Percy, e. Oct. 2, 1861. 
Beaumont, H. E., e. Oct. 7, 1861. 
Foley, Michael, e. Oct. 3, 1861. 
Green, James M., e. Oct. 5, 1861, vet. Jan. 5, 1864. 
Jordan, James, e. Oct. 3, 1861, disd. March 2, 1862. 
Kepheart, Isaac, e. Oct. 3, 1861, disd. for disab. 
Lasier, Silas D., e. Dec. 20, 1861. 
Mourn, Andrew, e. S«p. 20, 1861, reported dead. 
Morrison, John H., e. Oct. 1, 1861, m. o. Nov. 20, 1864. 
Mitchell, Robert M., e. Oct. 7, 1861. 
Mugley, Geo-., e. Oct. 8, 1861. 

McGrath, Patrick, e. Oct. 1, 1861, trans, to V. B. C. 
Stocks, Job., e. Oct. 9, 1861. 
Verly, John, e. Oct. 5, 1861, disd. Jan. 31, 1863, disab. 

Company D. 

McLaughlin, Thos. W., e. Oct. 19, 1861, vet. Dec. 19, 1863- 

m o. July 12, 1865. 
McLoughlin, W. T. 
Wilder, Albert A., e. Oct. 19, '61, disd. April 23, '63, disab, 

Company E. 

Second lieut. Chas. F. Dube, e. as sergt. Sept. 14, 1861, 

prmtd. 2d lieut. May 22, 1863, term expired Dec. 25, 

1864. 
Oorp. Samuel E. Machamer, e. Sept. 14, 1861, disd. May 

2, 1862. 
Boop, Wm. H., e. March 30, 1864 
Brandt, Abraham, e. Sept. 18, 1861, vet. Dec. 19, 1863, m. 

o. as Corp. 
Boop, Jacob, e. March 30, 1864. 
Bowersox, Chas., e. Sept. 18, 1861, disd May 2, 1862. 
Dubs, Henry, e. March 24, 1864. 
Frasher, Win., e. Sept. 18, 1861, vet. Jan. 5, 1864. 
Flickenger, E. 0., e. Sept. 14, 1861, vet. Jan. 5, 1864. 
Keister, Chris., e. Sept. 18, 1861, trans, to inv corps. 
Miiler, Henry, e. Sept. 7, 1861, vet. March 1, 1864. 
Spellman, Thomas, e. Sept. 24, 1861, m. o. Sept. 29, 1864, 

term expired. 
Wingard, Jacob, e. Sept. 14, 1861, vet. Jan. 5, 1864. 

FORTY-SIXTH INFANTRY. 

The Forty-sixth Infantry Illinois Volunteers 
was organized at Camp Butler, Illinois, Decem- 
ber 28, 1861, by Col. John A. Davis. Ordered 
to Cairo, 111., February 11, 1862; from there, 
proceeded, via the Cumberland River, to Fort 
Donelson, Tenn., arriving on the 14th, and was 
assigned to the command of Gen. Lew Wallace ; 
on the 15th, lost one man killed and two 
wounded; 16th, moved through the works and 
to Dover; 19th, moved to Fort Henry. March 
6, embarked for Pittsburg Landing, where it 
arrived on the 18th. The regiment was now 
in Second Brigade, Fourth Division, with Four- 
teenth. Fifteenth and Forty-sixth Illinois, and 
Twenty-fifth Indiana, Col. James C. Veatch, 
Twenty-fifth Indiana, commanding brigade, 
and Brig. Gen. S. A. Hurlbut, of Illinois, com- 
manding division. In the battle of Shiloh, the 
Forty-sixth took a most conspicuous and hon- 
orable part, losing over half of its officers and 
men in killed and wounded, and receiving the 
thanks of the commanding Generals. Among 
the wounded were Col. John A. Davis, Maj. 
Dornblasser, Capts. Musser, Stephens, Marble 



and McCracken ; Lieuts. Hood, Barr, Arnold, 
Ingraham and Howell. In this action, the 
"Fighting Fourth Division" of Gen. Hurlbut 
achieved a reputation for bravery, to which it 
added on every field in which it was engaged 
until the close of the war. Was engaged in 
the siege of Corinth, in the month of May. 
June 2, camped six miles west of Corinth ; on 
the 10th, marched to the Hatchie River; loth, 
passed through Grand Junction, and camped 
three miles from town ; 24th, moved to Collar- 
bone Hill, near La Grange; on the 30th, moved 
to Old Lamar Church. July 1, marched to 
Cold Water, and returned on the 6th ; on the 
17th, moved toward Memphis, marching via 
Moscow, Lafayette, Germantown and White's 
Station, and camping two miles south of Mem- 
phis, on the 21st of July. August 27, engaged 
in the scout to Pigeon Roost. September 6, 
moved from Memphis toward Brownsville; 7th, 
marched through Raleigh and Union Stations ; 
9th, marched to Big Muddy River; 11th, via 
Hampton Station, to Danville ; 12th, via White- 
ville, to Pleasant Creek ; 14th, via Bolivar, to 
Hatchie River. September 27, all the troops 
on the river, at this place, were reviewed by 
Gen. McPherson. October 4, moved toward 
Corinth ; 5th, met the enemy at Metamora. 
The Forty-sixth was in position on the right of 
Second Brigade, supporting Bolton's Battery. 
After an hour of shelling by the batteries, the 
infantry were ordered forward, and at a double 
quick, advanced, driving the enemy across the 
river. The First Brigade coming up, " Hurl- 
but's Fighting Fourth Division" advanced and 
drove the enemy from the field, compelling 
their flight. Col. John A. Davis, of the Forty- 
sixth, was mortally wounded in this action, and 
Lieut. M. R. Thompson also, both dying on the 
10th. After the battle, returned to Bolivar. 
November 3, marched to La Grange ; 28th, 
moved to Holly Springs ; 30th, toward Talla- 
hatchie Paver, and camped near Waterford, 
Miss., where splendid winter quarters, with 
mud chimneys and ba'ie ovens complete, were 
fitted up in time to move away from them. 
December 11, to Hurricane Creek, and 12th, to 
Yocona Station, where it remained until Decem- 
ber 22, when it marched to Taylor's Station. 
Van Dorn, having captured Holly Springs, 
marched on the 23d, .via Oxford, to Hurricane 
Creek ; 24th, the Forty-sixth Illinois and 
Thirty. third Wisconsin moved, as train guard, 
to north side of Tallahatchie River ; 26th, 
moved camp four miles nearer Holly Springs, 
between Waterford and Wyatt Stations. Jan- 
uary 6, 1863, moved to Holly Springs; 10th, 
Fifteenth and Forty-sixth Illinois were escort 
to ammunition train to La Grange ; 13th, 
marched to Moscow, where it remained until 
February 5, when it moved to Lafayette. The 
garrison of Moscow was First Brigade, Fourth 
Division, the Forty-sixth and Seventy-sixth 
Illinois of the Second Brigade, and two batter- 
ies : and the garrison of Lafayette the Four- 
teenth and Fifteenth Illinois and one battery, 
Col. Cyrus Hall commanding. After rejoining 
brigade at Lafayette, marched on the 9th of 



324 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



March, via Collierville and Germantown, to 
Memphis. April 21, 1863, engaged in the ex- 
pedition to Hernando, and returned on the 
'J4th. May 13, embarked for Vicksburg, and 
on the 15th, landed at Young's Point; 18th, 
marched to Bower's Landing ; 19th, moved to 
Sherman's Landing ; 20th. moved by steamer 
up Yazoo to Chickasaw Bayou ; disembarked, 
and moved across the swamp to the bluff. May 
21. proceeded to the right of Gen. Grant's 
Army, and were then ordered to Snyder's 
Bluff; 24th, marched in the direction of Vicks- 
burg ; 25th, marched to the extreme left of the 
line. The regiment was detailed on picket 
duty, and during the night the outpost, con- 
sisting of five companies of the regiment, were 
captured by the enemy ; 101 men and 7 officers 
were captured, 70 escaping. The remainder of 
the regiment took an active part in the siege of 
Vicksburg; July 5, moved to Clear Creek; 6th, 
to Bolton Station ; 8th, to Clinton ; 9th, to 
Dickens' Plantation, where it remained guard- 
ing train : 12th, moved into position on the 
extreme right of the line near Pearl River ; 
engaged in the siege until the 16th, when the 
enemy evacuated Jackson, after which the reg- 
iment returned to Vicksburg. The division 
was now transferred to the Seventeenth Corp3, 
and Brig. Gen. M. M. Crocker assigned to com- 
mand. August 12, moved to Natchez. Sep- 
tember 1, went on an expedition into Louisiana, 
returning on the 8th. September 16, moved 
to Vicksburg. November 28, moved to Camp 
. Cowan, on Clear Creek. January 4, 1863, the 
Forty-sixth was mustered as a veteran regi- 
ment ; 12th, started north for veteran furlough ; 
23d, arrived at Freeport. 111., and on the 27th, 
the regiment was furlougheu. 

Col. John A. Davis, com. Sept. 12, 1861, died at Bolivar, 

Tenn., Oct. 10, 1862, of wounds received at battle of 

Hatchie. 
Col. Benj. Dornblazer, com. adjt. Oct. 11, 1861, prmtd. 

Major Feb. 8, 1862, prmtd col. Oct. 11, 1862, brevt. 

brig. gen. Feb. 20, 1865. 
Maj. John M. McCracken, com. capt. Co. K Dec. 30, 1861, 

prmtd. maj. Oct. 11, 1862, term expired Dec. 23, 1864. 
Maj. Jos. Clingman, com. capt. April 24, 1862, prmtd. 

maj. Dec. 23, 1864. 
Quarter Master Edwin R. Gillett, com. September, 1862, 

res. Oct. 5, 1864. 
Quarter Master Jas. B. Wright, com. Oct. 5, 1864. 
Sergt. Elias C. De Puy, com. Sept. 23, '61, res. Nov. 1, '64. 
Sergt. Benj. H. Bradshaw, com. 1st asst. sergt. Sept. 12, 

1862, prmtd. sergt. Nov. 1, 1864. 
First Asst. Sergt. Julius N. DeWitt, com. 2d asst. sergt. 

March 5, 1864, prmtd. 1st. asst. sergt. Nov. 1, 1864. 
Chaplain David Teed, com. Oct. 11, 1861, res. Sept. 1,1862. 
Sergt. Maj. Wm. Swanzey, e. Dec. 7, 1861, dis. May 29, 

1862, disab. 
Sergt. Maj. Henry A. Ewing, dis. Oct. 25, 1863, for pro- 
motion. 
S>T£t. Maj. John E. Hersheydis. Sept. 1, 1864, disab. 
Sergt. Maj. Edgar Buttei field, vet., m. o. Sept. 20, 1866. 
Sergt. Maj. F. H. Whipple, trans, from 11th inf., m. o. 

July 8, 1865. 
Quarter Master Sergt. James Duncan, e. Sept. 14, 1861, 

dis. May 29, 1862, disab. 
Quarter Master Sergt. Julius T. Weld, in. o. Jan. 20, 1866. 
'Comsy. Sergt. E. R. Gillett, e. Sept. 14, 1861, dis. for pro- 
motion as regimental quarter master. 
Comsy. Sergt. W. H. Barnds, vet., m. o. Jan. 20, 1866. 
Hospital Steward Thos. Wolcott, vet. 
Hospital Steward Jos. Chambers, e. Sept. 14, 1861, dis. 

August, 1862, disab. 
Hospital Steward James Steele, dis. March 1, 1864, for 

promotion. 
Hospital Steward Thos. J. Allen, vet., m. o. Jan. 20, 1866. 



Principal Musician Geo. W. Trotter, vet., reported died 
Oct. — , 1865. 

Company A. 

Capt. John Musser, com. Sept. 10, 1861, died April 24, '62. i 
Capt. Isaac A. Arnold, com. 2d lieut. Sept. 10, 1861, prmtd. 

1st lieut. April 1, 1862, prmtd. capt. Dec. 23, 1864. 
^irst Lieut. Wm. O. Saxton, com. Sept. 10, 1861, res. 

April 1, 1862. 
Wm. Reynolds, e. as sergt. Sept. 10, 1861, prmtd. 2d lieut. 

Oct. 15, 1861, prmtd. 1 lieut l'ec.23, 1864. 
Second Lieut. Geo. S. Dickey, e. as sergt. Sept. 10, 1861, 

prmtd. 2d lieut. April 1, 1862, res. Oct. 15, 1864. 
Second Lieut. Wm. M. Moore, prmtd. 1st. lieut. Dec. 23,'64. 
Sergt. Horace D. Purinton, e. Sept. 10, '61, dis. Dec.12,'63. 
Corp. Daniel M. Hart. e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. July 8, 1862, 

disab. 
Corp. Thos. S. Clingman, e. Sept. 10, 1861, dis. Aug. 2, 

1862, wds. 
Corp. Andrew M. Fellows, e. Sept. 10, '61, died May 2,'62. 
Corp. Albert M. Lull, e. Sept. 10, 1861, kid at Shiloh. 
Corp. Benj. Musser, e. Sept. 10, 1861, dis. Nov. 24, 1862, 

disab. 
Corp. Wesley J. Best, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. 
Corp. Q. E. Pollock, e. Sept. 10, 1861, as 1st lieut. died 

at Mound City, April 9, 1862, wds. 
Arnold, A. F., e. Sept. 10, 1861, dis. Sept. 4, 1862, disabi 
Andre, Wm., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863, died at 

Duvall's Blufi, Dec. 10, 1864. 
Andrea Jacob D., e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. 
Ambrose, Dewitt C, e. Jan. 5, 1864. 
Allen, John A. 

Allison, Wm. W., e. Oct. 10, 1861, died March 16, 1863. 
Belknap, C. A., e. Jan. 24, 1865. 

Bruner, Robt. D., e. Jan. 5, '64, as corpl., died Oct. 6, '64. 
Barrett, Edw., e. Jan. 25, 1864, died Aug. 12, 1864. 
Babcock, James M., e. Aug. 10, 1862, dis. Nov. 25, 1863, 

for promotion. 
Best, Hiram C, e. Jan. 24, 1865, dis. June 19, 1865. 
Bolander, H. W., e. Sept. 10, 1861, dis. Aug. 25, '62, disab. 
Bates, A. J., e. Sept. 10, 1861, dis July 9, 1862, disab. 
Bolander, Geo. W., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863, m. 

o. as corpl. 
Best, Robt. T., e. Sept. 10, 1861, died Nov. 7, 1861. 
Barrett, Chas., e. Sept. 10, 1861, dis. Aug. 13, 1862, wds. 
Best Wesley J., e. Dec. 22, 1863, died Aug. 19, 1864, wds. 
Benter, Martin, e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. Nov. 14, 1862, wds. 
Buss, Hillery, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863, m. o. as 

Corp. 
Cearn, William, e. Sept. 10, 1861, trans, to inv. corps. 
Clingman, Abner, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 7, 1863, m. o. 

July 14,1865. 
Clingman, Hiram, e. Sept. 10, 1861, kid. bat. Shiloh. 
Clingman, George R., e. Sept. lo, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863. 
Clouse, Charles, e. Sept. 10, 1861, died Sept. 7, 1862. 
Clingman, Charles, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863. 
Clingman, John T., e. Jan. 26, 1865. 
Clingman, William M., e. Jan. 24. 1865. 
Cadwell, Horace, e. Jan. 24, 1865. 
Olow, Benjamin, e. Jan. 24, 1865. 
Clause, William, e. Jan. 27, 1865. 
Deriges, John P., e. Feb. 7, 1865. 

Daughenbaugh. C, e. Oct. 15, 1864, m. o. Oct. 8, 1865. 
Derrick, James E., e. Sept, 10, 1861, disd. May 28, 1862, 

disab. 
Descaven, D. P., e. Sept. 10, 1861, died Sept. 22, 1862. 
Davidson, George W., e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. April 28, 1863, 

disab. 
Elliott, John, e. Sept. 10, 1861, kid. bat. Shiloh. 
Erley, William F., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 7, 1863. 
Evans, Thomas W., e. Jan. 5, 1864. 
Ellis, Elias, e. Jan. 24, 1865. 
Faurer, Robert A., e. Oct. 10, 1862, vet. 
Faurer, Amos, e Dec. 12, 1863. 
French, D. H., e. Jan. 28, 1864. 
F<ird, William D., e. Jan. 27. 1865. 

Fellows, George E., e. Feb. 27, 1864, m. o. May 15, 1865. 
French, S. A., o. Sept. 10, 1861, — m. o. as sergt. 
Garrison, D. W., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863. 
GibbOIlS, Thomas, e. Sept. Ill, 1861. 
Galpin, Daniel A., e. Sept. lo, 1861, term expired. 
Gibbens, William, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 7, 1863. 
Garrard, W., e. Jan. 24, 1865, absent sick at m. o. 
Glynn, James, e Jan. 25, 1864, 
Garman, Lawrence G., e. Feb. 8, 1864. 
Green, Chris, e. Oct. 10, 1861. 
Hunting, George H., e. Jan. 5, 1864, disd. for promotion in 

U. S. C. H. Art. 
Hartzel, William, e. Dec. 30, 1863, vet. absent at m. o. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



325 



Hart, Joseph E., e. Jan. 31, 1865. 

Hill, John, e. Jan. 24, 1805. 

Hills, H. M., e. Jan. 24, 1865. 

Hoot, John, e. Sept. 10, 1861, kid. bat. Shiloh. 

Hunting, Charles H., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 7, 1863, 

disd. July 14, 1864. 
Hollenbeck, H. \V., e.Sept. 10, 1861, died May3, 1862, was. 
Hunting, William A., e. Sept. 10, 1861 
Hart, James H., e. Sept. 10, 1861, Vet. Dec. 22, 1863. 
Holsinger, William H ,e. Sept. 10, 1861, died April 1,1862. 
Hoyman, Henry, e. Feb. 6, 1865. 

Hadsell, N. A., e. , disd. March 9, 1866. 

Hadsell, A. C, e. . 

Hart, John, e. Aug. 30, 1862, m. o. June 19, 1865 as sergt. 
Hart, Thomas J., e. Aug. 30, 1862, m. o. June 19, 1865. 

Hathaway, Homer H., e. . 

Joy, Benedict, e. Feb. 20. 1864. 

Jefferies, Jos. G., e. Sept. 10, 1861. vet. Dec. 7, 1863, absent 

at m. o. 
Kemper, Adam, e. Sept. 10, 1861, 1st. sergt., disd. for pro- 
motion. 
Krape, Wm. W., e. Feb. 29, 1864. 
Law, John H., e. Feb. 6, 1865 
Lee, L. H., e. Jan. 26, 1865. 
Miller, I., e. Dec. 23, 1863, absent at m. o. 
Moore, Geo. W., e. Jan. 25, 1864. 
Moser, Wm., e. Feb. 29, 1864. 
McAfee, R. L. H., e. Jan 4, 1864. 
Musser. Obas., e. Jan. 31, 1865. 
Moser, E. A., e. Jan. 24, 1865. 
Morgan, H. A. e. Jan. 24, 1865. 
May, Willard, e. Feb. 24, 1864, died May 18, 1864. 
McCarthey, James C, e. Feb. 1, 1864, vet. 
Moore, Wm. R., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 7, 1863, disd. 

March 19, 1865, sergt. 
Miller, H. W., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. 
Musser, James, e, Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863. 
McHoes, John, e. Sept. 10, 1861, trans, to inv. corps. 
More, Chas. F., e. Sept. 10, 1861, died April 2, 1863. 
Mason, John H., e. Sept 10, 1861, disd Nov. 24, 1862, wd 
Mack, James H., e. Sept 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863. 
Neil, Wm. R., e. Feb. 20, 1864. 
Peck, Theo., e. Sept. 10, 1861, died Jan. 8, 1862. 
Patten, John, e. Sept. 10, 1861, kid. Shiloh. 
Plowman, Charles, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863. 
Patten, Robert, e. Sept. 10. 1861, vet. Dec. 7, 1863, m. o. 

as Corp. 
Parrish, Pleasant, e. Sept. 10, 1861, trans, to Co. B. 
Peck, A., e. Sept. 10, 1861, m. o. Nov. 12, 1864. 
Parker, John, e. Feb. 18, 1864, absent (sick) at m. o. 
Rodgers, H. G , e. Oct. 10, 1861, kid at Shiloh April 6, '62. 
Beiniger, Samuel J., e. Dec. 17, 1863. 
Rice, M. A., e. Feb. 1, 1864. 
Ritzman, John, e. Feb. 6, 1865. 

Rubendall, D. R., e. Jan. 4, 1864, m. o. June 10, 1865. 
Rudy, John, e. Dec. 23, 1863, m. o. May 22, 1865 
Quiggle, Robert H., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 7, 1863, m. 

o. July 14, 1865. 
Ritzman, Robert D., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863. 
Riem, James, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863, died 

March 22, 1864. 
Rush, John, e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd Aug. 16, 1862, disab. 
Rodgers, D. E., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863, died 

Dec. 12, 1864. 
Rodimer, Wm. H., e Sept. 10, 1861, kid. at bat. Shiloh. 
Rollins, E. W., e Sept. In, 1861, died June 29, 1862. 
Smith, C. H., e Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 7, 1863. 
Solomou, John C, e. Sept. 10, '61, disd. May 8, '62, disab. 
Sheckler, John, e. Sept. 10,1861, vet. Dec. 7, 1863. 
Scovill, Daniel A., e. Sept. 10, 861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863, 

m. o. as Corp. 
Sleight, Samuti A., e. Sept. 10, '61, disd. May 8, '62, disab. 
Smith, E. W , e. Sept. 10, 1861, trans, to inv. corps. 
Scovill, Nelson, e Sept. 10, 1861, died April, is, 1862, wd, 
Stephens, James N., e. Sept. 10, 1861, died May 9, 1862. 
Smith, James C , e. Jan. 4, 1864. 
Scovill, Alfred B„ e. Jan. 25, 1864. 
Shadell, Samuel P., e. Dec. 17, 1863. 
Shadell, A. C, e. Oct. 30, 1863 
Swartz, John L , e. Oct 30, 1863. 
Sheltenberger, John, e. Jan 8, 1864 
Sheets, George W., e. Jan 25, 1864. 
Sanborn, Charles G., e. Feb 6, 1865. 
Sills, Thomas, e. Jan. 24, 1865. 

Seidle, Charles H., e. Dec. 23, 1863, died Nov. 20, 1864. 
Sherman, Leonard. 
Tomlins, John W., Dec. 16, 1863. 
Taft, Jos. A., e. March 4, 1865. 
Thompson, L. B., e. Oct. 8, 1864. 

Taylor, John W., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 7, 1863, disd. 
for prom. 53d U. S. C. I. 



Thompson, James M., e. Sept. 10, 1861, died April 1, 1862. 
Van Brocklin, James M., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec 22 

1863. 
Vincen, Thomas, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863. 
Walker, John \V\, e. Sept .0, 1861. 
Winchell, H. P., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 7, 1863. 
Wieland, John M., e. Sept. 10, 1861, died Nov. 2, 1861. 
Woodring, John M., e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. Nov. 24, 1862, 

disab. 
Wilson, Benjamin F., e. Sept. 10, 1861, died Dec. 30, 1861. 
Whisler, John B., e. Sept. 10, 1861, kid. bat. Shiloh. 
Wilson, R. P., e. Sept. in, 1861, vet. Dec. 7, 1863. 
Windecker, John, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863. 
Waddell, John R., e. Jan. 5, 1864. 
Woodring, U., e. Feb. 27, 1864. 
Wall, Thomas, e. March 21, 1865, disd. 
Winters, Darius, e. Aug. 10, 1862, m. o. July 7, 1865. 
Wetzol, F. F., e. Feb. 17, 1864. 
Windecker. William, e. Feb. 6, 1865. 
Waddell, William W., e. Jan. 28, 1865. 
Woodring, John M., e. Feb. 7, 1805. 

Company B. 

Capt. Rollin V. Ankeny, com. Sept. 14, 1861, res. Dec. 31, 

1862. 
Capt. William J. Reitzell, e. as sergt. Sept. 10, 1861, prmtd. 

2d lieut. June 10,1862, prmtd. 1st lieut. July 10, 1862, 

prmtd. capt. Jan. 1, 1863. term expired Dec. 23, 1864. 
Capt. Robert F. Cooper, e. as sergt. Sept. 10, 1861, prmtd. 

2d lieut. Jan. 1, 1863, prmtd 1st lieut. Sept. 27, 1864, 

prmtd. capt. Dec. 23, 1864. 
First Lieut. Henry Roush, com. Sept. 14, 1861, res. April 

18, 1862. 
First Lieut. Emanuel Faust, e. as sergt. Sept. 10, 1861, 

prmtd. 2d lieut. July 10, 1862, prmtd. 1st lieut. Jan. 

1, 1863, res. Sept. 27, 1864. 
First Lieut. George S. Rousch, e. as corp. Sept. 10, 1861, 

prmtd. 2d lieut, Sept. 27, 1864, prmtd 1st lieut. Dec. 

23, 1864, res. June 19, 1865. 
First Lieut. Thomas B. Jones, e. as corp. Sept. 10, 1861, 

prmtd. 2d lieut. Dec. 23, 1864, prmtd. 1st lieut. July 

31, 1865. 
Second Lieut. Thomas J. Hathaway, com. Sept. 14, 1861, 

res. June 10, 1862. 
Second Lieut, Aaron McCaley, e. as private Sept. 10, 

1861, vet. prmtd 2d lieut. July 31, 1865. 

First Sergt. Thomas J. Hood, e. Sept. 10, 1861, trans, to 

Co. G. 
Sergt. Robert Smith, e. Sept. 10, 1861, trans, to Co. G. 
Corp. George Cox, e. Sept. 10, 1861, died Oct. 9, 1862, wds. 
Corp. Leopold Shook, e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. July 10, 1862, 

as sergt., disab. 
Corp. John E. Hershey, e. Sept. 10, 1861, prmtd. sergt. maj. 
Corp. John Y. Haughey, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Jan. 5, 1864, 

m. o. May 30, 1865. 
Corp. J. W. Barker, e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. Feb. 12, 1863 

as private, disab. 
Corp. Isaac F. Kleckner, e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. June 14, 

1862, disab. 

Musician Isaac Bolander, e. Sept. 10,1861, vet. Dec. 7, 1863. 
Musician Caspar Long, e. Sept. 10, 1861, trans, to Co. G. 
Wagoner Isaac N. Mallory, e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. Aug. 12, 

1862, disab. 
Ashenfelter, Cyrus, e. Sept. 10, 1861. died Dec. 6, 1861. 
Arnold, Adam, e. Sept. 10, 1861. vet. Dec. 7, 1863. 
Askey, Samuel, e. Feb. 5, 1864. 
Arnold, Charles, e.Sept. 10, 1861, vet Dec. 23, 1863. 
Askey, John, e. Feb. 5, 1864. 
Andre, Jacob, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 23, 1863, trans. 

to Co. A. 
Artley, Abram, e.'Feb. 15, 1864, trans, to Co. K. 
Alshouse, Jacob, e.Sept. 10, 1861, disd. Sept. 21, 1862, disab. 
Ansl.erger, S., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 7, 1863. 
Barr, John W., e. Sept. 10, 1861, prmtd. sergt. maj. 
Boyd, Franklin, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 23, 1863. 
Brenizer, J. K., e. Feb. 1, 1864, no. o. as corp. 
Barker, A. J., e. Sept. In, 1861, disd. Dec. 28, 1863, disab. 
Brayman, E. P., e. Dec. 26, 1863. 
Barker, S. S., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 23, 1863. 
Bloss, Joseph L., e. Feb. 8, 1861. 
Bowen, John T., e. Sept. 10. 1861, vet. Dec. 23, 1863. 
Bolender, Jackson, e. Feb. 1, 1864. 
Bolander, Aaron, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 23, 1864, m. o. 

June 19, 1865. 
Burgess, Solon S., e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. June 30, 1863, 

disab. 
Bolander, John P., e. Feb. 1, 1864. 
Bower, Charles F., e. Sept. 10, 1861, died April 23, 1862, 

wds. 



326 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



Butterfield, Edgar, e. Sept 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 23, 1863, 
prmtd. sergt. maj. 

Collins, Thomas, e. , traDS. from 99th 111. 

Crawford, Franklin, e. Sept. Id, 1861, in. o. Sept. 9, 1864. 

Carroll, Henry, «. Feb. 2, 1864. 

Chambers, Joseph, e. Sept. 10, 1861, prmtd. hospital stew- 
ard. 

Cooper, George W., e. Feb. 1, 1864. 

Cantrell, Joseph T., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 23, 1863, 
trans, to Co. K. 

Clark, Silas \\\, e. Dec. 16, 1863. 

Cooper, A. J., e. Jan. 24, 1865. 

Cade, Charles, e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. Aug. 12, 1862, disab. 

Chase, L. W., trans, from 99th 111. 

Dubois, William W., e. Dec. 26, 1863. 

Duncan, 0. P., e. Jan. 26, 1865. 

Duncan, James. 

Daniels, Willis, m. o. Jan. 8, 1866. 

Dougherty, Geo., e. Jan. 2, 1864, dis. Sept. 17, 1864, disab. 

Ernst, Jacob, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 7, 1863. 

Eli, Marion, e. Dec. 18, 1863, trans, to Co. K. 

Erb, Ira, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 7, 1863, m. o. as corpl. 

Frankeberger, Aaron, e. Feb. 22, 1864. 

Forbes, A. W., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 7, 1863. 

Foster, Geo., e. Feb. 1, 1864. 

Frankeberger, E. B., e Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 7, 1863. 

From, James, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 7, 1863. 

Frize, Henry, e. Sept. 10, 1861, died March 31, 1862. 

Gallagher, H. C, e. Dec. 17, 1863. 

Guitt-r, Adam, e. Sept. 10, 1861. vet. Dec. 23, 1863. 

George, Wm. A., e. Feb. 12, 1864, died Sept. 10, 1864 

Gibler, Hiram, e. Sept. 10, 1861, m. o. Sept. 9, 1864. 

Gibler, Jos. H., e. Sept. 10, 1864. 

Hess, Andrew, e. Feb. 4, 1865, died April 24, 1865, wds. 

Henrich. Cornelius, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 7, 1863. 

Hinies, Jos., e. Feb. 19, 1864. 

Hay, John, e. Sept. 10, '61, vet. Dec. 23, '63, m. o. as sergt. 

Hartman, H. J., e. Jan. 28. 1865. 

Hathaway, H. H., e. Sept. 10, 1861, trans, to Co. A. 

Hartman, Jos. W., e. Jan. 24, 1865. 

Hathaway, J. J., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 7, 1863-. 

Hinds, Erastus, e. Jan. 24, 1865. 

Hathaway, Jas. B., e. Sept. 10,'61, disd. April 23,'62, disab. 

Hamilton, Thos., trans, from 99th 111. 

Hess, Andrew, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 23, 1863. 

Hofmerster, Aug. W\, m. o. Oct. 9, 1865. 

Hill, Langford, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Feb. 15, 1864. 

Hendrickson, A., m. o. Oct. 9, 1865. 

Henderson, W. J., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 7, 1863, m. o. 
July 15, 1865. 

Hartzel, John, e. Oct. 13, 1864, m. o. Oct. 12, 1865. 

Henderson, Francis, e. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 23, 1863. 

Hathaway, Earl, e. Sept. 10, 1861, trans, to Co. G. 

Henderson, U. H., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 23, 1863, m. 
o. as sergt. 

Hathaway, Phillip, e. Jan. 30, 1864, dis. Dec. 31, 1866. 

Hoag, Chas., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. 

Howe, James, e. Jan. 24, 1865. 

Hinds, Erastus, e. Sept. 10, 1861, dis. Dec. 10, 1862, disab. 

Inman, H. L., e. Feb. 2, 1864. 

Kaup, Geo. S., e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. July 30, 1862, disab. 

Johnson, Wm. T., e. Dec. 27, 1863, died June 17, 1865. 

Kryder, Jacob N., e.Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 23, 1863. 

King, Edwin, e. Feb. 3, 1864. 

King, Robert, e. Feb. 1, 1864. 

Kerr, Wm., e. Sept. 10, 1861, m. o. Dec. 20, 1864. 

Kellog, E. V., e. Sept, 10, 1861, kid. at battle of Shiloh. 

Lobdell, Daniel, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 23, 1863, died 
Oct. 4, 1864. 

Lauck, Jacob, e. Feb. 2, 1864. 

Mingle, D. J., e. Sept. Pi, 1861, vet. Jan. 5, 1864. 

McKee, Robert, e. Oct. 25, 1861, vet. Dec. 23, 1863. 

Mather A., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 7, 1863. 

McKee, David, e. Nov. 13, 1863. 

McElhaney, Wm., e. Sept. 10, 1861, dis. April 4, 1S62. 

Mogle, Samuel, e. Feb. -A, 1864. 

McCurdy, Francis, e. Sept, 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 23, 1863. 

Mogle. Jacob, e. Feb. 2, 1864. 

Mitchell, Norton, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 23, 1863. 

McCauley, Isaac, e. Feb. 2, 1864. 

Moses, John N., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 23, 1863. 

Mitchell, C, trans, from 99th 111. 

Mclenahan, Geo., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 7, 1863. 

Mogle, L. W., e. Feb. 1, 1864, m. o. Oct, 21, 1865. 

Malory, Daniel, e. Sept. 10, 1861, m. o. Sept. 9, 1864. 

Mack, Harry A., e. Sept. 10, 1861, died June 15, 1862. 

Mallory, John W., e. Sept. 10, 1861, died Mav 17, 1862. 

McGinnis, Jos., e. Sept 10, 1861, died Sept. 28, 1862. 

Mingle, John H.. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 23, 1863. 

Nicholas, John, e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd Nov. 7, 1862, disab. 



Pentecoff, Levi, e. Sept. 10, 1861, died Oct. 19, 1862. 

Parrish, P. P., disd. Feb. 3, 1863, disab. 

Pieter, John, e Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Jan. 5, 1864. 

Pierce, James, e. Dec. 9, 1863. 

Potter, Francis, e. Sept. 10, 1861. 

Potter, Julius, e. Sept. 10, 1861, died Feb. 6, 1862. 

Pierce, James, e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. Nov. 11, 1862, disab. 

Rockwell, Charles W., e. Sept. 10, 1861, died May 14, '62. 

Rishel, Daniel L. 

Reed, W. D., e. Jan. 27, 1864. 

Reed, John P., e. Jan. 27, 1864. 

Runkle, John H., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 23, 1863. 

Roush, Henry, e. Feb. 1, 1864, died July 10, 1864. 

Seibold, Calhoun, e. Feb. 1, 1864. 

Stottler, Jacob, e, Sept. 10, 1861, died May, 1862, wd. 

Skinner, W. W., e. Feb. 8, 1S64. 

Segin, Theo., e. Dec. 17, 1863. 

Snyder, F. M., e. Dec. 24, 1863. 

Shaffer, W. F., e Jan. 24, 1865, m. o. June 20, 1865. 

Stanley, John, e. Feb. 1, 1864. m. o. Sept. 8, 1865. 

Shane, Charles N., e. Sept. 10, 1861, died July 26, 1863. 

Stone, E. L., e. Feb. 9, 1864, died Nov. 27, 1864. 

Shane, Thomas, J., e. Sept. 10, 1861, m. o. Sept. 9, 1864, 

corp. 
Smith, Henry, trans, from 99th 111. 
Sprague, George D., e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. Feb. 28, 1863, 

disab. 
Taft, H. C, e. Jan. 24, 1865. 

Turrinzo, Anson, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 23, 1863. 
Thompson, 1. E., e. Feb. 4, 1864. 
Tyler, Dayton D, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 7, 1863, 

trans, to Co. D. 
Thompson, Robert S.. e. Feb. 4, 1864. 
Tomlins, J. W. 
Van Meter, John C, e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. July 7, 1862, 

disab. 
Vocht, Levi S., e. Jan. 22, 1864. 
Vinson. George, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 7, 1863, trans. 

to Co. H. 
Vinson, John, e. Jan. 8, 1864, died Aug. 12, 1S64. 
Wilson, George, e. Sept. 10, 1861, died April 30, 1862. 
Wunshel, George, e. Feb. 1, 1864. 
Wright, Charles F., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 23, 1863. 
Wohlford, Franklin, e. Feb. 2, 1864. 
Webb, Oliver P., e. Feb. 4, 1864. 
Wagner, P. R., e. Jan. 24, 1865. 
Wilson, Henry, m. o. Oct. 9, 1865. 
Yoder, Andrew B., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 23, 1863. 
Zigler, Miller, e. Feb. 2, 1864, trans, to Co. K. 



Company C. 

Capt. Frederick Khrumme, com. Sept. 10, 1861, res. April 

23, 1862. 
Capt. Philip Arno, com. 1st lieut., Sept. 10, 1861, prmtd. 

capt. April 23, 1862, term expired Dec. 23, 1864. 
Capt. Edward Wike, e. as sergt. Sept. 10, 1861,'prmtd. 2d 

lieut. Sept. 29, 1862, prmtd. 1st lieut. Dec. 17, 1863, 

prmtd. capt. Dec. 23, 1864. 
First Lieut. Harbert Harberts, e. as sergt. Sept. 10, 1861, 

prmtd. 1st lieut. April 23, 1862, m. o. for promotion 

2d Miss Dec. 17, 1863. 
First Lieut, Andrew Ohlenheusen, e. as private Dec. 22, 

1863, prmtd. 2d lieut. Dec. 17, 1863, prmptd. 1st 

lieut. Dec. 23, 1864. 
Second Lieut. Addo Borchers, com. Sept. 10, 1861, res. 

Sept. 29, 1862. 
Second Lieut. Emil Neese. e. as corp. Sept 10, '61, prmtd. 

2d Lieut. March 20, 1865. 
Sergt. Adolph Walbrecht, e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. for pro 

motion in U. S. C. H. art. 
Sergt. Carl H. Gramp, e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. Sept. 9, 1864, 

term expired. 
Sergt. Ferdinand Beutz, e. Sept. 10, '61, m. o. Sept. 16,'64. 
Corp. Albert Kocher, e. Sept, 10, 1861, died May 15, '62. 
Corp. Arnold Rader, e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. Sept. 22, 1862, 

disab. 
Corp. Carl. Lipinski, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. March 19, '64. 
Corp. John Ochxle, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863. 
Corp. Peter Steinmetz, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 

1863, died Oct. 15, 1864. 
Corp. C. Michaelson, e. Sept 10, 1861, vet. Feb. 21, 1864. 
Musician Conrad Kahn, e. Sept. 10,1861, died May 15, '62. 
Musician Albert Stacker, e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. July 3, 

1862, disab. 
Arena, Peter, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet, Dec. 22, 1863. 
Altmann, Henry, e. Jan. 24, 1865. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



327 



Abels, Johann, e. Sept. 10, 1861, dis. Sept. 14, 1864, term 
expired. 

Adams, Geo. W., trans, from 99th 111. 

Bauer Anton, e. Sept. 10, 1801, vet. Dec. 22, 1863. 

Burkhart, John, e. Dec. 31, 1863. 

Berg, Alfred, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863. 

Backes, Jacob, e. Feb. 4, 1864. 

Benton, John L., e. Feb. 29, 1864, m. o. May 22, 1865. 

Bonn, Jos., e. Sept. 10, 1861. 

Byrne, Martin e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863. 

Barmington, i ., e. Feb. 26, 1865. 

Baker, Jacob. 

Bagger, Heinrich, e. Sept. 10, 1861, died Oct. 15, 1862. 

Burkhardt, A., died July 24, 1865. 

Bles, Jacob, e. Dec. 20, 1863, dis. May 27, 1865. 

Cruse, John, e. Sept. 10, 1861. 

Cohlstedt, Henry, e. Jan. 15, 1864. 

Christian, John. 

Crueger, Henry, e. Jan. 15, 1864. 

Dreesman Ubbo, e. Sept. 10, 1861, died April 11, 1864. 

Diller, Michael, e. Dec. 25, 1861, trans, to V. R. C. 

Durken, N. H. Van., e. Sept. 10, 1861, died April 25, 1862. 

Davis, Philip. 

Dobbie, W., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Jan. 5, 1864. 

Dede, Henry, e. Jan. 27, 1865. 

Duitsman, W., e. Sept. 10, 1801, Dec. 22, 1863. 

Dennis, Thomas, died Oct. 7, 1865. 

Deuzing, F., e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. Sept. 9, 1864, term ex- 
pired. 

Dillin. Michael, e. Jan. 24, 1865. 

Egnsen, B. W., e. Sept. 10, 1861, died May 19, 1862. 

Eickle, Anton, e. Jan. 25, 1864. 

Each, J. J., e. Sept. 10, 1861. 

Froning, Herman, e. Sept. 10, 1861, dis. Oct. 14, '63, disab. 

Friday, Philip, e. Jan. 28, 1864. 

Farley, Thomas, e. Sept. 10, 1861, trans, to Co. K. 

Friedman, Valentine, e. Dec. 31, 1863. 

Freivert, F., e. Sept. 10, 1861, dis. Jan. 12, 1803, disab. 

Franz, Safrin, e. Feb. 9, 1804. 

Foster, John, e. Jan. 27, 1865. 

Frey, Johann, e. Jan. 1,'02, died at Vicksburg, July 5,'62. 

Frewart, Charles, e. Nov. 26, 1863, died Dec. 19, 1864. 

Giboni, H., e. Sept. 10, 1861, kid. at battle of Shiloh. 

Getz, Andrew, e. Feb. 3, 1805. 

Gretzly Gottleib, e. Sept. 10, 1801, died April 20, '62, wds. 

Gasteger, A., e. Jan. 1, 1864. 

Heeron, W., e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863. 

Hoebel, Jacob, e. Jan. 29, 1864. 

Hasselmann, Fred., e. Sept. 10. 1801, kid. at battle of 
Shiloh. 

Hofwimer, Jos., e. Jan. 18, 1804. 

Harberts, Johann, e. Sept. 10, 1861, dis. Feb. 4, '63, disab. 

Held, Frederick. 

Hencke, W., e. Jan. 28, 1864. 

Heine, Frederick, Feb. 29, 1864, kid. July 8, 1864. 

Husenger, 0., e. Sept. 10, 1801, died May 5, 1862. 

Jaegar, John, e. Jan. 24, 1865. 

Koller, Johann, e. Sept 10, 1861, disd. Sept. 9, 1804, term 
expired. 

Koller, William, e. Nov. 25, 1861, vet. Jan. 5, 1804. 

Kuhlmeier H., e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. Sept. 13, 1804, term 
expired. 

Kohle, Jacob, e. Dec. 26, 1863. 

Kraemer, Jacob, e. Sept. 10, 1861, died July 19, 1862. 

Klock, H., e. Sept. 10, 1861, died July 4, 1862. 

Krueger, Klaas, e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. Feb. 5, 1863, disab. 

Krumme, H., e. Sept. 10, 1861, trans, to Co. G. 

Kuock, Harm, e. Sept. lo, 1861, disd. Sept. 13, 1864, term 
expired. 

Kraemer, F., e. Sept. 10, 1863, died May 26, 1862. 

Knock, Andreas, e. Sept. 10, 1861, kid. at Shiloh. 

Knoeller, George, e. Sept. 10, 1801, vet. Dec. 22, 1863. 

Kauner, Christ, e. Sept. 10, 1801, disd. June 19, 1862, disab. 

Kohle, Jos., e. Jan. 4, 1864 

Kaenier, George, e. Jan. 27, 1865. 

Kastler, Nicholas, e. Jan., 26, 1864. 

Kuhler, August, e. Jan. 29, 1S64. 

Kaubenberger, P. G., e. Jan. 26, 1364. 

Knecht, Philip, e. Jan. 28, 1864. 

Korn, Lewis, e Jan. 1, 1864. 

Koyn, Frederick, e. Feb. 12, 1864. 

Koehler, Fred, e. Jan. 30, 1864. 

Koller, Fred, e. Jan 27, 1864. 

Kaenier, George N. 

Klefer, George, e. March 2, 1865. 

Ketlerer, John, e. Jan. 1864, died Sept. 18, 1804. 

Krueger, Carl, e. Jan. 5, 1864, died Nov. 29, 1864. 

Lttour, Charles, e. Nov. 7, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863. 

Lapp Aaron, e. Sept. 10, 1862, died May 4, 1862. 

Ludicke, Henry, e. Feb. 4, 1864. 

Lahre, John, e. Dec. 18, 1803. 



Lahre, Isaac, e. Dec. 26, 1863. 

Lahre, Elias, e. Jan. 25, 1865. 

Long, Charles M.,e. Jan. 27, 1805. 

Long, Jacob, e. Jan. 27, 1865. 

Leter, Nicholas, e. Oct. 6, 1804, m. o. Oct. 4, 1805. 

March, James, e. Sept. 10, 1801, trans, to V. R. C. 

Mueller, Gottfried, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863. 

Metzger, Richard, e. Sept. 10, '61, disd. Nov. 7, '62, disab. 

Metzen, Nielaus, e. Sept. 10, 1861, trans, to V. R. C. 

Marbeth, Leons, e. Sept. 10, 1801, kid. at Shiloh. 

Marks, J. F., e. Sept. 10, 1801, kid. at Shiloh. 

Marks, Marius, e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. June 19, 1802, wd„ 

Meisencamp, C, Feb. 15, 1804, m. o. as corp. 

Miller, R. Tm., e. Dec. 16, 1803. 

Miller, Wm., e. Dec. 18, 1863. 

Meise, Conrad, e. Feb. 10, 1864, drowned Aug. 24, 1864. 

Miller, Frederick, e. Feb. 7, 1862, vet. Feb. 12, 1864, 46th 

I. V. I., Co. C. 
Neef, Johann, e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. Sept. 4, 1862, disab. 
Neef, Hermann, e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. Sept. 13, 1864, term 

expired. 
Nurgen, Jacob Van, e. Oct. 29, 1801, m. o. Nov. 12, 1804. 
O'Konas, Cornelius, e. Jan. 27, 1865. 
O'Konas, Peter, e. Jan. 27, 1865 died June 12, 1865. 
Ot)x>, Charles, e. Jan. 25, 1865. 
Olthoff, William, e. Oct. 29, 1801, disd. Oct. 20, 1804, term 

expired. 
Olnhausen, Andreas, e. Oct. 29, 1801, vet. Dec. 22, 1803. 
Plumer, Johann, e. Sept. 10, 1801, vet. Dec. 22, 1863. 
Penning, Wiard, e. Sept. 10, 1861, died Dec. 31, 1861. 
Perstin, F., e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. Sept. 13, 1864, term 

expired. 
Polmann, Albert, e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. Oct. 13, 1862 as 

corp. 
Prince, Jacob, e. Jan. 24, 1865, m. o. Jan. 20, 1865. 
Peppering, Christ, e. Oct. 29, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863. 
Raden, Johu Van, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863. 
Rebel, Joham, e. Sept. 10, 1861, kid. bat. Shiloh. 
Reichemeier, C, e. Sept. 10, 1861, died Jan. 1, 1862, wjs. 
Rader, Arnold, e. Feb. 29, 1864. 
Romelfauger, Jacob, e. Jan. 28, 1864. 
Rorback, Jacob, e. Feb. 26, 1804. 
Rach. Ernest, e. Jan. 28, 1864. 
Rippberger, John, e. Jan. 26, 1865. 

Reinecke, Joseph, e. . 

Restine, George, e. . 

Schneider, H., e. Sept. 10, 1801, disd. Dec. 11, 1862, disab. 
Stohr, John, e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. Nov. 13, 1862. disab. 
Schmaltzhaf, H., e. Sept. 10, 1861, died April 24, 1862, wds. 
Steifenhofer, M., e. Sept. 10, 1801, died Jan. 25, 1802. 
Stober, William, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863, m. o. 

as sergt. 
Steinhauer, Jacob, e. Sept. 10, 1861, disd. May 24, 1802, 

disab. 
Schmidt, Johann, e. Feb. 2, 1804. 

Schvenstein, Burkhardt, e. Feb. 9, 1804, m. o. Jan. 20, 1866. 
Streeger, Peter, e. Feb. 27, 1864. 
Stork, Henry, e. Feb. 10, 1864. 
Schwartz, H., e. Jan. 26, 1864. 
Schneider, A. C, e Feb. 4, 1805. 
Seiferman, L., e. Feb. 2, 1865. 
Saur, Julius, e. Feb. 1, 1865. 
Spies, Jacob, e. Oct. 29, 1861, kid. Oct. 5, 1862. 
Schlueker, H. A., e. Feb. 4, 1864, drowned Aug. 26, 1864. 
Schneider, Joseph, e. Jan. 5, 1864. 
Schroeder, Frank, e. Dec. 29, 1863, m. o. Oct. 3, 1805 as 

corp. 
Seidenburg, Frederick, e. Oct. 29, 1861. disd. Feb. 7, 1862 

Stoehr, John, e. , disd. May 31, 1865. 

Steffer, Michael, e. Feb. 4. 1804, m. o. June 7, 1865. 

Schroeder, Charles, e. , m. o. June 7, 1865. 

Schweitzer, John Geo, e. Oct. 29, 1861, vet. Jan. 5, 1804. 
Trei, Friedrich, e. Sept. lo, 1861, died May 9, 1863. 
Trivel, W., e. Feb. 8, 1804. 
Vacopp, Philip, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1803, died 

May 21, 1804. 
Vollmer, Gottleib, e. Sept. 10, 1801, drowned May 14, 1803. 
Weifenbach, e. Sept. 10. 1801, disd. July 10, 1802, disab. 
Wolff, Johann, e. Sept. 10, 1801, vet. Dec. 22, 1863. 
Weggenhausen, Max, e. Sept. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1803. 
Wagner, H. L„ e. Jan 1, 1864, 
Weik, Louis, e. Jan. 26, 1804. 
Wagner, W., e. Feb. 0, 1805. 
Wernick, H. A., e. Jan. 18, 1864. 
Werner, Jacob, e. Jan. 26, 1865. 
Wepel, H., e. Jan. 27, 1865. 
Wyarda, Theodore, e. Feb. 13, 1864. 
Wunderlin, Saver, e. Feb. 2, 1864. m. o. May 22, 1805. 
Zeibrich, Paulus, e. Sept. 10, 1801, disd. Nov. 23, 1862, 

disab. 



828 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



Company D. 

(New Company.) 

Capt. James W. Crane, com. Feb. 3, 18G4, disd. March 25, 

1865. 
Capt. Francis 0. Miller, com. 1st lieut. Feb. 3, '64, prmtd. 

capt. June G, 1865. 
First Lieut. Isaac liobb, com. 2d lieut. Jan. 30, 1864, 

prmtd. 1st lieut. June C, 1865. 
Second Lieut. Benjamin F. Hayhurst, e. as private, Dec. 
24, 1863, prmtd. 1st sergt., prmtd. 2d lieut. June 6, 
1865. 
Aurand, John J., e. Dec 17. 1863. in. o. June 22, 1865. 
Adams, John H., e. Dec. 29, 1863. 
Atkins, Lewis E., e. Jan. 5, 1864. 
Avery, William N., e. Nov. 30, 1863. 
Brady, Frederick, e. Oct. 10, 1864, m. o. Ocf. 9, 1865. 
Brown, William \V., e. Feb. 26, 1865. 
Brown, John W., e. Oct. 25, 1864. 
Beswick, A. W., e. Feb. 27, 1864. 
Bolick, Henry, e. Dec. 26. 1863. 
Benton, Levi, e. Dec. 11,1863, m. o. July 3, 1865. 
Bates, A. J., e. Dec. 11, 1863, disd. Feb. 14, 1865, sergt. 

disab. 
Brown, James E., e. Dec. 23, 1863, m. o. as corp. 
Boyer, George, e. Dec. 26, 1863. 
Belden, Arthur, e. Dec. 28, 1863. 
Benth v, William, e. Dec. 24, 1863. 
Bentlev, Lewis D., e. Dec. 28, 1863. 
Beck, John, e. Dec. 20, 1863. 

Branard, Benjamin, e. Dec. 30, 1863, died July 2, 1864. 
Bundy, Ambrose A., e. Dec. 30, 1863. 
Bundy, Christopher, e. Jan. 18, 1864. 
Bistline, Daniel, e. Jan. 2. 1864. 
Clade, Levi, Jan. 24, 1865. 
Clark, William A., e. Dec. 29, 1863. 
Clark, Charles B., e. Dec. 31, 1863. 
Clade, Charles, e. Dec. 18, 1863. 
Cook, S. M., e. Dec. 28, 1S63. 
Culting, n. P., e. Dec. 25, 1863, trans, to V. R. C. 
Cross, Levi, e. Jan. 2, 1864. 
Clark, John, e. Jan. 2, 1864. 

Daugenbaugh, John N., e. Dec. 5,' 63, absent sick, at m. o. 
Denton, Levi A., e. Dec. 29, 1863. 
Demer, Levi, e. Jan. 2, 1864. 
Edgars, William, e. Dec. 12, 1863. 
Eister, Daniel W., e. Dec. 22, 1863. 
Ells, Lansing, e. Jan. 22, 1863, died May 14, 1864, wds. 
Eshelmann, M. N., e. Dec. 29, 1863. 
Furray, William, e. Jan. 27, 1865. 
Fiss, Thomas J., e. Dec. 30, 1863, absent sick at m. o. 
Fogel, John D., e. Dec. 11, 1863, disd. Sept. 28, 1864, wd. 
Fry, Joel. e. Dec. 30, 1863. 
Felt, William W., e. Dec. 28, 1863. 
Feltzer, Christopher, e. Jan. 28, 1863. 
Flory, John, e. Dec. 30, 1863. 
Gross. Theo., e. Feb. 2, 1865. 
Grissinger, Wm. B. e. Dec. 11, 1863. 
Gardner, Bray ton, e. Dec. 29, 1-63. 
Grimmel, Wm. D., e. Dec. 30, 1863. 
Hurlburt, K. W., e. Dec. 29, 1863. 

Hayden, Luther H., e. Dec. 28, 1863, died Jan. 5, 1865. 
Hammond, Marion, e. Dec. 29, 1863. 
Havhurst, B. F. 

Jon'e», Robert A., e. Dec. 28, 1863. 
Johnson, James W., e. Dec. 28, 1863. 
Kleckner, John P., e. Dec. 29, 1863. 
Kalev, Jos., e. Dec. 29, 1863. 
Keller, Henry, e. Jan. 5, 1864. 
Keohler, John, e. Feb. 24, 1865. 
King, Henry, e. Dee. 31, 1863, m. o. June 26, 1865. 
Knigut, H. B., e. Jan. 2, 1864, died June 3, 1864. 
Kleckner, Jacob, e. Dec. 15, 1863. 
Keeler. Chris., e. Jan. 5, 1864. 
Lincoln, Albert, e. Dec. 29, 1863, dis. July 7, 1863. 
Lightheart, Warren, e. Jan. 5, 1864. 
Lee, Samuel, e. Dec. 29, 1863. 
Leverton, Isaac, e. Dec. 29, 1863. 
Lults, Wm., e. Jan. 14, 1864 
Lenart, Elias, e. Dec. 30, 186::. 
Melton, L. L.,.e. Dec. 29, 1863. 
Minnick, N., e. Dec. 26, 186:',. 
Musser, J. W., e. Dec. 28, 1863. 
Moorehouse, W. E„ e. Dec. 29, 1863. 
McGilligan, Win. K. P., e. Dec. 29, 1863. 
Maxwell, Job. W.. e. Dec. 31, died Aug. 23, 1864. 
Mattingley, James, e. Jan. 5, 1864. 
Messinger, George, e. Dec. 31. 1863, dis. May 31, 1865. 
Mespinger, Wm., e. Dec. 21, 1863. 
Mudy, Gto. W., e. Jan. 4, 1S64, died Oct. 9, 1864. 



Musser, Raymond, e. Jan. 2, 1864. 

Machamer/A. E., e. Jan. 2, 1864. 

McGilligan, Jos. N., e. Dec. 29, 1863. 

Pangborn, Geo. E., e. Jan. 1, 1864. 

Parker, Wm., e. Dec. 31, 1863. 

RuBh, Jos., e. Dec. 29, 1863. 

Rush, Emanu-1, e. Dec. 29, 1863. 

Reed, James H., e. Dec. 30, 1863, trans, to Co. E. 

Rogers, M., e. Jan. 4, 1864. 

Reed, S. A., e. Jan. 2, 1864. 

Randal, James, e. Dec. 24, 1863, absent at m. o. of regt. 

Shumaker, John A., e. Jan. 24, 1865. 

Simc#x, A. R., e. Jan. 24. 1865, died Aug. 6, 1865. 

Stiue, John, e. Dec. 28, 1863, m. o. as sergt. 

Spitler, W. H., e. Dec. 30, 1863, m. o. as corpl. 

Solace, C. L., e. Dec. 29, 1863. 

Shumaker, George, e. Dec. 19, 1863. 

Scrambling, Wm. H., e. Dec. 28, 1863. 

Spofford, Chas. F., e. Jan. 2, 1864. 

Tyler, D. D., e. Sept. 10, 1861, m. o. Sept. 22, 1865. 

Towl, Henry E., e. Dec. 12, 1863. 

Vaughan, 0. 0., e. Dec. 12, 1863. 

Verguson, John S., e. Dec. 29, 1863. 

Vance, 0. C, e. Jan. 4, 1864. 

Wagnor, J. P., e. Dec. 24, 1863. 

Williams, Edward, e. Dec. 29, 1863. 

Warren, Wm., e. Dec. 29, 1863, m. o. June 26, 1865. 

Winner, Jacob, e. JaD. 1, 1864, dis. Oct. 7, 1865. 

Wittenmever, J. H. 

Young, Wm., e. Dec. 11, 1863. 

Zerby, Jacob, e. Jan. 2, 1864. 

Company E. 

Cassady, John, e. Feb. 6, 1865. 

Demuth, Fred, e. Jan 28, 1865, m. o. Aug. 9, 1865. 

Hammond, A. J., e. Feb. 24, 1865. 

O'Neal, Patrick, e. Feb. 16. 1864. 

Koin, John W., e. Feb. 29, 1864. 

Law, John W., e. Feb. 6, 1865. 

Long, Isaac, e. Feb. 6, 1865. 

Leslie Edw., e. Jan. 28, 1S65. 

Marion, Jos. 

Moses, Lewis. 

Moshier, Lorenzo, e. Feb. 7, 1865. 

Peaslie, Cornelius, e. Feb. 2, 1865. 

Phillips, Chris. 

Reed, I. W., e. Feb. 7, 1865. 

Reed, James H. 

Runkle, John D., e. Feb. 6, 1865. 

Rishel. John G., e. Jan. 31, 1865, m. o. May 27, 1865. 

Shane Wm. E., e. Feb. 7, 1865. 

Syler Peter, e. Feb. 6. 1865. 

Saxby, Wm. R., e. Feb. 6, 1865. 

Sidles, Charles, e. Feb. 24, 1865. 

Springer, David S.. e. Jan 26, 1865, m. o. May 27, 1865. 

Shaw, John W. 

TrotW James, e. Feb. 6, 1864. 

Waddell, W. W. 

Company F- 

First Lieut. John W. Barr. com. Oct. 15, 1861, m. o. fo 

promotion 2d Miss. Nov. 22, 18G3. 
Havs, Thomas, e. Oct, 4, 1861, m. o. Dec. 29, 1864. 
Hays, James, e. Oct. 4, 1861. 
Otto, Simon, e. Oct. 4, 1861. 
Gettich, Aaron, e. Feb. 6, 1865. 
Gross, J siah, e. Feb. 2, 1865. 
Hellman, M., e. Sept. 13, 1863, trans, to V. R. C. 
Little, Ira G., e. Sept. 8, 1863, disd. Sept. 5, 1S63. 
Mallory, James C, e. Nov. 7, 1861, died Aug. 10, 1862. 
Messenger, Theo. 
Petty, Stephen, e. Jan. 4, 1864. 
Stolf, Frederick, e. Feb. 27, 1864. 

Company C. 

Cftpt. William Young, com. Oct, 15,1861, res. April 12,1863. 
('apt. Robert Smith, e. as 1st sergt. Oct. 8, 1861, prmtd. 2d 

lieut April 7, 1862, prmtd. 1st lieut. Oct. 6, 1862, prmtd. 

capt. April 12, 1S63, term expired Dec, 23, 1864. 
<'apt. Samuel Buchanan, e. as private Oct. 8. 1861, prmtd. 

2d lieut. Aug. 11, 1863, prmtd. 1st lieut. June 24,1864, 

prmtd. capt. Dec, 28. 1864, res. July 21, 1865. 
Capt, Dani-1 D. Diffeobaugh, e. as private Oct. 8, 1861, / 

prmtd. 2d lieut. June 24, 1864, prmtd 1st lieut, Dec. 28, 

1S64, prmtd. capt. Sept. 5, 1865. 
First Lieut. Thomas M. Hood, com. Oct. 15, 1861, killed 

at Shiloh. 
First Lieut. Moses R. Thompson, com. 2d lieut. Oct. 15, 

1861, prmtd. 1st lieut. April 7,1862, kid. bat. Hatchie. 
First Lieut. Robert Smi'h. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



329 



First Lieut. Thomas Allen, e. as private Oct. 8, 1861, 

prmtd. 2d lieut. Oct. 6. 1862, prmtd. 1st lieut. April 

12, 1863, res. Aug. 11, 1863. 
First Lieut. Michael J. Cooper, e. as private Oct. 8, 1861, 

prmtd. 2d lieut. April 12, 1863, prmtd. 1st lieut. Aug. 

11, 1863, res. June 24, 1864. 
First Lieut. Thomas C. Laird, e. as private Oct. 8, 1861. 

prmtd. 2d lieut. March 20. 1865, prmtd. 1st lieut. Sept, 

5, 1865. 
Second Lieut. Thomas E. Joiner, e. as private Oct. 8, 1861, 

prmtd. 2d lieut. Sept. 5, 1865. 
Sergt. W. Swauzry, e. Oct. S, 1861. 
Sergt. Joseph McKibben, e. Oct. 8, 1861. 
Sergt. Joseph Stamp, e. Oct. 8, 1861, died June 16, 1862. 
Sergt. James B. Smith, e. Oct. 8, 1861, disd. Aug. 22, 1862, 

private. 
Corp. S. E. Hershey, e. Oct. 8, 1861, trans, to Inv. Corps. 
Corp. Joseph S. Brown, e. Oct. 8,1861, died April 28, 1862, 

wds. 
Corp. Thomas Snyder, e. Oct. 8, 1861, disd. Dec. 11, 1862, 

disab. 
Corp. John W. Rowray, e. Oct, 8, 1861, disd. June 21, 1862, 

disab. 
Musician James Cole, e. Oct. 8, 1861, disd. Aug. 18, 1862, 

disab. 
Albright, William, e. Jan. 28, 1864. 
Aikev, Abram, e. Jan. 28, 1865. 
Angle, Luther, e. Jan. 31, 1865. 
Aikev, Robert, e. Feb. 1, 1862, kid. bat. Shiloh. 
Albright. Jacob, e. Feb. 1, 1862, vet. Jan. 5, 1864. 
Allison, D., e. Feb. 1, 1862, vet. Dec. 23, 1863, m. o. as sergt. 
Auman, John, e. Feb. 1, 1862, vet. Jan. 5, 1864, disd. 

March 12, 1865, for prmtn. 
Butler, E. M„ e. Jan. 9. 1865, trans, from 99th inf. 
Bush, William, e. Dec. 15, 1861, disd. Nov. 9, 1863, disab. 
Baker, John M., e. Jan. 24, 1865. 
Baker, Joseph, e. Jan. 25, 1865. 
Brubacker, William H., e. Feb. 26, 1864. 
Beedy, E. K., e. Feb. 27, 1861. 
Benton, George, e. Feb. 29, 1864. 
Barfoot, F. R,, e. Feb. 24, 1865. 
Bordner, Henry, e. Feb. 28, 1865. 
Bren. Ferdinand, e. Feb. 27, 1865. 
Bellman, John, e. Jan. 24, 1865. 
Boyer, Owen, e. Feb. 23, 1865. 
Baker, E. H., e. Aug. 30, 1862, m. o. June 19, 1865. 
Baker, Solomon S., e. Feb. 26, 1864, m. o. May 23, 1865. 
Brubacker, Reuben, e. Oct. 8, 1861, died May 9, 1862. 
Beeler, George D., e. Oct. 8, 1861, kldbat. Shiloh. 
Brown, Wm., e. Oct. 8, 1861, disd. June 30,1863. 
Benton, George, e. Oct. 8, 1861, disd. Dec. 11, 1862, disab. 
Bradshaw, B. H., e. Oct. 8, 1861, disd. Sept. 12, 1862, to 

accept promotion to asst. sergt. 
Baker, Elias, e. Oct. 8, 1861, vet. Dec. 24, 1863. 
Bates, B. L., e. Oct. 8, 1861, died July 12, 1862. 
Craig, E. W., e. Oct. 8, 1861, disd. June 21, 1862, disab. 
Cable Seth, e. Oct. 8, vet. Dec. 24, 1863. 
Cable, David, e. Oct. 8, 1861, m. o. Oct. 19, 1864. 
Clubiue,D., e. Oct. 8, 1861, disd. June 30, 1863. 
Clark, Ezekiel S., e. Dec. 7, 1863, m. o. as corp. 
Cable, Wm., e. Feb. 26. 1864. 
Cole, John, e. Jan. 28, 1864. 
Chambers, James S., e. Jan. 27, 1864. 
Campbell, Richard, e. Feb. 2, 1865. 

Curtis, H. H., e. Nov. 30, 1861, dis. Nov. 11, 1862, disab. 
Christman, F.. m. o. May 22, 1865. 
Correl, Daniel, e. March 9, 1865, m. o. June 9, 1865. 
Driesbach, Daniel, e. Sept. 4, 1862, died March 12, 1863. 
Drake, Edward, e. Oct. 8, 1861, m. o. Nov. 12, 1864. 
Daughenbaugh, S. A., e. Oct. 8, 1861, vet. Dec. 23, '63, 

disab. 
Dunn, Thomas, e. Oct. 8, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863. 
Davis, Alfred, e. Dec. 9, 1863. 
Fiscus, D. W., e. Feb. 29, 1864. 
Frisbie, C. G., e. Jan. 24, 1865. 
Frisbie, Wm. D., e. Jan. 24, 1865, dis. Dec. 31, 1866. 
Fehr. Aaron, e. Oct. 8. 1861, vet. Dec. '.3, 1863. 
Foster, Hanv. e. Oct. S, 1861. 
Gage, Isaac, e. Oct. 8, 1861, vet. Dec. 23, 1863. 
Groken, S. H., e. Oct. 8, 1861, died April 6, 1862. 
Groff, John, e. Feb. 1,1864. 
Garman, H. ('., e. Feb. 6, 1864. 
Garman, Wm. A., e. Feb. 1U. 1864. 
Gardner, John, e. Dec. 9. I 
Goodrich, Jerome, e. Jan. 24, 1865. 
Hathaway, Earl, e. Oct. 8, 1861, disd. Jan. 4, 1864. 
Hulet, Henry, e. Oct. 8, 1861, died May 30, 1862. 
Hickle, Elias, e. Oct. 8, 1861, vet. Dec. 24, 1863. 
Helm, Wm., e. Oct. 8, 1861, died June 26, 1863. 
Hood, Jos. R., e. Oct. 8, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863. 
Hood, Thomas J., e. Oct. 8, 1861. 



Haughey, Jas. H., e. Feb. 24, 1864. 

Hathaway, Robert, e. Feb. 27, 1864, m. o. July 1, 1865. 

Hains, John H., e. Dec. 7, 1863. 

Haughey, Samuel J., e. Feb. 22, 1864. 

Haines, Wm., e. Sept. 18, 1863, died Feb. 15, 1865. 

Hay, Jonathan, e. Feb. 29, 1864, dis. Match 30, 1865, for 

promotion in United States Army. 
Hall, Thomas W., m. o.Oct. 10, 1865. 
Howard, Wm., e. Dec. 7, 1861, trans, to Co. K. 
Kittner, George, e. Oct. 8, 1861, died April 12, 1862, wd. 
Klontz, George, e. Oct. 8, 1861, vet. Dec. 23, 1863, m. o 

July 15, 1865. 
Kancke, R., e. Oct. 8, 1861, vet Dec. 24, 1863. 
Klonez, Peter, e. Feb. 19, 1864, disd. May 5, 1865, disab. 
Krumme, Henry, e. Sept. 10, 1861, m. o. Sept, 13, 1804 
Lee, Ion, e. Oct. 8, 1861, vet. Dec 22, 1863. 
Lee, Isaac S., e. Oct. S, i861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863. 
Larne John, e. Oct. 8, 1861, died June 27, 1862. 
Linsley, Newton, e. Oct. 8, 1861, vet, Dec. 22, 1863, m. o. 

as corp. 
Long, Caspar, e. Oct, 8, 1861, disd. July 9, 1862, disab. 
LaBell, Peter, e. Oct. 8, 1861, died June 2, 1862. 
Law, Rolandus, e. Feb. 6, 1864. 
Lowe, Thomas A., e. Dec. 7, 1863. 
Lapp, Joseph, e. Feb. 1, 1866. 
Lahay, James, e. Dec. 25, 1861, trans, to Co. K. 
Loehle F., e. Jan. 1, 1862, vet. Jan. 1, 1864. 
Mayer, Isaac, e. Jan. 24, 1865. 
Moothart, P., e. Oct. 8, 1861, disd. May 9, 1862. 
Moothart John F., e. Oct. 8, 1861, died Feb. 9, 1864. 
McLeese, Robert, e. Jan. 21, 1805. 
Malter, J., e. Oct. 8, 1861, vet. Dec. 23, 1863, sick at m. o. 

of regt. 
McClintic. John, e. Aug. 14, '62, disd. March 17, '63disab. 
Meinert, C, e. Oct. 8, 1861, m. o. Nov. 12, 1861. 
McLaughlin, Thomas, e. Dec. 15, 1861, trans, to Co. K. 
McMurry, J., e. Oct. 8, 1861, disd. May 20, 1863, corpl. 
McMurry, Chambers, e. Oct. 8, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863, 

m. o. July 15, 1865. 
McMurray, George, e. Feb. 1, 1864. 
Preising, George, e. Oct. 8, 1861, vet. Jan. 5, 1864, kid. 

July 7, 1864. 
Petrick, Paul, e. Oct. 8, 1861, vet. Jan. 5, 1864. 
Paul, William, e. Feb. 1, 1865, m. o. Jan. 20, 1866. 
Redinger, Francis, e. Oct. 8, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863. 
Richards, William D., e. Oct. 8, 1861, m. o. Oct. 21, 1864. 
Richards, Uriah, e. Oct. 8. 1861, vet. Dec. 23, 1863, m. o. 

as corp. 
Richmond, Lewis B., e. Jan. 5, 1864. 
Rubold, Henry, e. Oct. 8, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863, disd. 

March 8, 1865. 
Reiter, W., e. Oct. 8, 1861, m. o. Nov. 12, 1864. 
Rutter, Jacob, e. Oct. 8, 1861. 
Riddle, Samuel, e. Feb. 29, 1864. 
Riddle, Wm., e. March 18, 1865, trans. 99th inf. 
Raymer, John A., e. Jan 27, 1865. 
Raymer, Wm. H., e. Feb. 27, 1865. 
Reirmeyer, Henry, e. Dec. 15, 1861, died July 10, 1864. 
Reatt, Ed., e. Sept. 13, 1862, m. o. Aug. 8, 1865. 
Risshell, Elias, e. Feb. 10, 1864, m. o. Aug. 8, 1865. 
Steel, James W., e. Oct. 8, 1861, prmtd. hospital steward. 
Shively, John, e. Oct. 8, 1861, died April 23, 1862. 
Smith, Wm., e. Oct. 8, 1861, vet. Jan. 5, 1864, m. o. Jan. 

20, 1866. 

Smith, Aug. L., e. Oct. 8, 1861, disd. Dec. 11, 1862. 
Sindlinger, Wm. M., e. Oct. 8, '61, disd. Julv 9, '62 disab. 
Schawb, Thomas, e. Oct. 8, 1861, disd, Nov. 26, '62, diBab. 
Smith, Martin, e. Oct. 8, 1861, vet. Jan. 5, 1864, died March 

21, 1864. 

Shelter, Jacob, Oct. 8, 1861, died July 17, 1862. 

Sausman. John L., e. Dec. 12, 1863. 

Springman, Adam, e. Feb. 27, 1864. 

Sherman, Leonard, e. March 4, 1865. 

Sindlinger, William M., e. Jan. 27, 1865. 

Sindlinger, Samuel, e. Jan. 28, 1865. 

Seely, Orin, e. Jan. 26, 1865. 

Shinkle, John T . e. Jan. 28, 1864, died Aug. 28, 1864. 

Stamm, William D., e. Dec. 1, 1863, died at Vicksburg, 

Sept. 24, 1864. 
Shippy, Joseph, e. Jan. 28, 1864, died Nov. 28, 1864. 
Shearer, John, e. Feb. 2!l, 1861. died Sept. 20, 1864. 
Shirk, Daniel F., e. Feb. 5, 1862, vet. Feb. 6, 1864. 
Stamm, Amos A., e. Oct. 4, 1864, m. o. July 1, 1865. 
Bpoonar, Charles, e. Nov. 1, 1861, vet. Dec. 24, 1863. 
Smith, E. 0. W., e. Feb. 29, 1864. 
Thomas, William H., e. Feb. 23, 180".. 
Tool, Eugene T., Oct. 11, 1864. 
Tool, A. 8., e. Oct. 11, 1864, m. o. Oct. 10, 1865. 
Tonibleson. Silas \\ '., e. Oct. 4, 1864, m. o. Oct. 5, 1865. 
Vore. John. e. Oct. 8, 1861, vet. Dec. 24, 1863. 



330 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



Ward, Sidney, e. Oct. 8, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863, died July 

8, 1864. 
Williams, Peter, e. Oct. 8, 1861, vet. Dec. 22, 1863, died 

March 5, 1865. 
Wilson, F. T., e. Oct. 8, 1861, vet. Dec. 23, 1863. 
Wyre, John, e. Oct. 8, 1861, disd. April 26, 1863, disab. 
Wilson, John, e. Oct. 8, 1861, vet. Dec. 23, 1863. 
Wentz, Philip, e. Oct. 8, 1861, vet. Dec. 24, 1863. 
Walters, Samuel, e. Jan. 24, 1865. 

Williams, William, e. Jan. 28, 1864, died Dec. 14, 1864. 
Wolfanger, Aaron, e. Jan. 24, 1865, died July 19, 1865. 
Wootan, James E., o. Feb. 1, 1862, vet. Feb. 6, '64, disd. 
Weaver, William, e. Dec. 15, 1861, m. o. Dec. 5, 1864. 
Wike, Peter, trans. Ind. Corps. 
Young, D. D., e. Feb. 1, 1864. 

Young, Robert C, e. Oct. 8, 1861, m. o. Nov. 12, 1864. 
Young, F. M., e. Oct, 8, 1861, m. o. Oct. 19, 1864. 

Company I. 

Carter, S. E., e. Oct. 16, 1861. 

Company K. 

Capt. Wm. Stewart, com. 1st lieut. Oct. 15, 1861, prmtd. 

capt. Oct. 11, 1862. term expired Dec. 28, 1864 
First Lieut. Jos. M. McKibben, e. as , prmtd. 2d 

lieut. July 16, 1862, prmtd 1st. lieut. Oct. 11, 1862, 

term expired Dec. 23, 1864. 
First Lieut. Louis E. Butler, e. as sergt. Nov. 7, 1861, 

vet. prmtd. 1st lieut. Dec. 23, 1864, died at Salubrity 

Springs, La., Oct. 5, 1865. 
First Lieut. John Wilson, e. as Corp. Nov. 7, 1861,' vet. 

prmtd. 2d lieut. March 20, 1865, prmtd. 1st. lieut. 

Oct. 26, 1865. 
First Sergt. James C. Mallory, e. Nov. 7, 1861, trans, to 

Co. F. 
Sergt. Oscar H. Osborne, e. Nov. 7, 1861, dis. July 27, 

1862, disab. 
Sergt. Geo. Barton, e. Nov. 7, '61, dis. Nov. 21, '63, disab. 
Corp. Walter G. Barnes, e. Nov. 7, 1861, dis. May 31, 

1862, disab. 
Corp. Benj. R. Frisbie, e. Nov. 7, 1861, m. o. Dec. 29, '64. 
Corp. T. S. Felton, e. Nov. 7, 1861, died March 17, 1862. 
Corp. R. C. Hardy, e. Oct. 4, 1861, dis. Nov. 7, '63, disab. 
Corp. E. H. Gardner, e. Nov. 7, 1861, died June 18, 1862. 
Corp. Thos. Woodcock, e. Dec. 26, vet. 
Musician Thos. Slade, e. Oct. 4, 1861, vet. 
Apker, John, e. Jan. 26, 1865, died May 8, 1865. 
Artley, A., e. Jan. 24, 1865. 
Artley, Charles, e. Jan. 28, 1865. 

Allen, Thomas H., e. Feb. 10,'64, prmtd. hospital steward. 
Butler, James A., e. Oct. 4, 1861, died July 13, 1862. 
Berns, Moses, e. Nov. 7, 1861, dis. May 25, 1862, disab. 
Brown, Geo. F., e. Nov. 7, 1861, died May 18, 1862. 
Brid, Geo. H., e. Feb. 2, 1865. 

Barker, Dudley, e. Feb. 7, 1865, died June 17, 1865. 
Brace, John, e. Jan. 13, 1862, died May 22, 1862, wds. 
Boyle, L., e. Jan. 21. 1862, trans, to inv. corps. 
Baker, John, e. Oct, 4, 1864, m. o. Oct. 3, 1865. 
Babb, A. W., e. Feb. 27, 1865. 
Butterneld, Chas. W., e. Feb. 26, 1865, absent sick at m. 

o. of regt. 
Cramton, Aaron, e. Oct. 4, 1861, dis. Sept. 9, 1862. 
Curran, John, e. Nov. 20, 1861, trans, to inv. corps. 
Carter, S. E., e. Dec. 26, trans, to. Co. A. 
Cantrill, J. T., e. Sept. 10, 1861. 
Cosier, Ammon, e, Jan. 25, 1865. 
Canvill, Calvin, e. Feb. 4, 1865. 

Coolidge, Nelson, e. Jan. 25, 1864, dis. Oct. 5, '64, wds. 
Carroll, Patrick, e. Feb. 23, 18G4. 
Cade, Alfred, e. Jan. 24, 1865. 
Daughenbaugh, Wm. J., e. Nov. 7, 1861, vet. 
Diemar, Josiah, e. Nov. 7, 1861, vet. 
Dodson, Thomas H., e. Nov. 15, 1861, died June 1, 1862. 
Dillon, Geo. W., e. Feb. 19, 1864. 
Dillon, Zachariah, e. Feb. 29, 1864. 
Decker, Z., e. Feb. 3, 1865. 

Devore, Espy, e. Jan. 16, 1864, dis. Aug. 23, 1865. 
Dinsruore Wm., e. March 27, 1865, sick at m.o. of regt. 
Diller, Michael, e. Dec. 25, 1861, trans, to Co. C. 
Doan, Jos., e. Feb. 1, 1864, died May 28, 1864. 
Dobson, Jacob, e. Feb. 1, 1864, died Oct. 30, 1864. 
Dolan, John, e. Feb. 4, 1864. 
Ely, Marion, e. Oct. 18, 1863. 
Flood, Bartholomew, e. Feb. 3, 1865. 
Farley, Thomas, e. Sept. 10, 1861, trans, to Inv. Corps. 
Fry, Conrad, e. Jan. 5. 1864, m. o. June 19, 1865. 
Gibler, H., e. Jan. 5, 1864. 
Gregsby, Uriah, e. Feb. 13, 1864. 



Garrison, 1. T., e. Dec. 5, 1863. 

Gillespie, P., e. Nov. 5, 1861, disd. May 22, 1865, disab. 

Gregsby, W. C, e. Feb. 13, 1864, m. o. June 12, 1865. 

Gregsby, Samuel, e. Jan. 27, 1865. 

Hays, Thomas J., e. Nov. 7, 1861, trans, to Inv. Corps. 

Hills, E. P., e. Dec. 26, 1861. 

Hiatt, John, e. Nov. 15, 1861, disd. Feb. 11, 1863, as sergt., 

disab. 
Heiter, Monroe, e. Feb. 7, 1865. 
Hartman, Anion, e. Jan. 31, 1865, m. o. July 17, 1865. 
Hand, Barney, e. Nov. 20, 1861, died Dec. 23, 1861. 
Kinney, Daniel, e. Nov. 7, 1861, vet. 
Kessling or Keeling, William, e. Nov. 7, 1861, vet. 
Kamrar, David, e. Jan. 24, 1865. 
Kraft, Jacob, e. Feb. 5, 1864. 
Kelly, Zebedee, e. Feb. 7, 1865. 
Keck, H. S., e. Feb. 4, 1865. 
Kamrar, Saul H., e. Jan. 13, 1862, vet. 
Lamb, Samuel F., e. Nov. 7, 1861, vet. 
Latour, Charles, e. Nov. 7, 1861, trans, to Co. 0. 
Lahay, James, e. Nov. 7, 1861, vet. 
Lamb, Samuel D., e. Jan. 22, 1865. 
Leibhart, Henry, e. Jan. 24, 1865. 
Lower, Reuben, e. Jan. 26. 1865. 
Linscott, Abrani, e. Feb. 29, 1864, m. o. May 31, 1865. 
Logan, William, e. Jan. 21, 1864. 
Mishler, Barton, e. Jan. 28, 1864. 
Miller, John H, e. Dec. 30, 1863. 
Mullin, D., e. Feb. 16, 1864. 
McCay, George, e. Feb. 6, 1865. 
Mufrly, Charles T., e. Jan. 28, 1865. 
McKibben, James H., e. Jan. 27, 1865. 
Myron, Thomas, e. Nov. 7, lt61, died June 12, 1862. 
Miller, Aaron, e. Dec. 26, 1861, died June 6, 1862. 
Martin, William H., e. Dec. 26, 1861. 
McLaughlin, Thomas, e. Dec. 6, 1861, vet. 
McKee, Robert, e. Nov. 7, 1861, trans, to Co. B. 
McKimsom, John S., e. Jan. 1, 1862, m. o. Dec. 31, 1864. 
Miller, A., e. Feb. 2, 1865, m. o. June 24, 1865. 
Mallory, D. C, e. Jan. 24, 1865, m. o. May 23, 1865. 
McGuirk, James, e. Jan. 1, 1862, vet. 
Needham, R. N., e. Nov. 7, 1861, vet. 
Nicholas, Charles H., e. Feb. 6, 1865. 
Owen, A. R.. e. Jan. 22, 1864. 
Osborn, 0. H., e. Jan. 30, 1864. 
Patten, Lawrence, e. Dec. 1, 1861, disd. March 7, 1862, 

disab. 
Plotner, Frank, e. Feb. 7, 1865. 
Quinn, William, e. Jan. 2, 1864. 

Reber, Levi M., e. Dec. 30, 1861, vet. 

Reber, M. V. B., e. Nov. 7, 1861. 

Reagle, Jacob, e. Nov. 7, 1861, died Oct. 26, 1862. 

Rutter, W. H. 

Rudel, L. 

Read, James H., e. Nov. 7, 1861, disd. Aug. 31, 1863 for 
promotion in U. S. C. T. 

Runner, Z. T. F., Jan. 25, 1865. 

Richards, William D., e. Jan. 30, 1865. 

Richards, Levi, e. Jan. 30, 1865. 

begin, Theo., e. Dec. 26, 1861, disd. Aug. 27, 1862, disab. 

Shook, Robert, e. Nov. 7, 1861, disd. Aug. 26, 1862, disab. 

Snow, A. L. F. M. e. Nov. 7, '61, disd. Aug. 29, '62, disab. 

Scott, George W., e. Feb 29, 1864. 

Star, F. H., e. Feb. 4, 1864. 

Scott, Isaac, e. Feb. 29, 1864. 

Sheffy, Levi W., e. Jan. 26, 1865. 

Sloan, Thomas, e. Feb. 7, 1865. 

Shane, Mathias, e. Feb. 7, 1865. 

Smith, Charles, e. Jan. 26, 1865. 

Shane, John W , e. Jan. 24, 1865. 

Sneely, Lewis Z., e. Feb. 7, 1865. 

Shaffer, Thomas J., e. Feb. 3, 1805. 

Sponage, William, e. Feb. 2, 1865. 

Train, L. R., e. Feb. 2, 1865. 

Winney, Daniel, e. Nov. 7, 1861, m. o. Dec. 29, 1864. 

Thomas, William, e. Jan. 5, 1864. 

Wagner, William N , e. Nov. 7, 1861, vet. 

Wood, Thomas, e. Nov. 7, 1861, vet. 

Wardwell, William G., e. Nov. 7, 1861, vet. 

Warner, D. J., e. Nov. 7, 1861, vet. 

Walbridge. Thomas, e. Dec. 26, 1861, vet. 

Woodruff, Isaac, e. Nov. 7, 1861, vet. 

Warner, William W., e. Jan. 25, 1865. 

Willy, Andrew, e Dec. 10, 1861, trans, to Co. A. 

Withneck, William, e. Feb. 7, 1862, died May 17,1862. 

Winne, Abraham, e. Jan. 26, 1865, died June 16, 1865. 

Watson, Henry, e. Feb. 3, 1865. 

Zweifel, Albert, e. Feb 19, 1864, m. o. as Corp. 

Zeigler, Miller, e. Feb. 2, 1864. 




FREEPORT 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



333 



UNASSIGNED RECRUITS. 

Barker, Jack. e. Feb. 27, 1865. 

Brown, Charles M., e. Jan. 25, 1864. 

Butler, B. F., e. Feb. 6, 1864. 

Cable, L. M., e. Feb. 22, 1864. 

Crossman, George W., e. March 9, 1865, m. o. June 29, '65. 

Cochran, D., e. March 29, 1865, m. o. May 21, 1865. 

Davis, Philip, e. Feb. 3, 1865. 

Driggs, John A., e. March 4, 1865, m. o. May 21, 1865. 

Frund, Julius L., e. March 11, 1865, in. o. May 23, 1865. 

Getlish, Addison. 

Harkell, William, e. Dec. 30, 1863. 

Helder, John W., e. Oct. 3, 1864. 

Mareau, Joseph, e. Feb. 6, 1865. 

Phillips, C. Y. 

Prain, L. R. 

Richardson, James, e. March 9, 1865, m. o. June 8, 1865. 

Richardson. Joshua, e. March 9, 1865. 

Rishel, Daniel L., e. Dec. 1, 1863. 

Sprader, Charles, e. Jan. 31, 1865. 

Tegar or Yeager, John, e. Jan. 24, 1865. 

Umphreys, A. R., e. Jan. 24, 1865. 

Van BureD, George E., e. Jan. 5, 1864. 

Weldon, Sidney, e. Dec. 7, 1863. 

Wendecker, William. 

William, Thomas, e. Jan. 5, 1864. 



SIXTY-SEVENTH INFANTRY. 

(Three Months.) 

Company H. 

Capt. James W. Crane, com. June 13, 1862. 

First Lieut. Stephen Allen, com. June 13, 1862. 

Second Lieut. Alonzo Hilliard, com. June 13, 1862. 

First Sergt. John Stine, e. June 2, 1862. 

Sergt. James R. Baker, e. June 2, 1862. 

Sergt. Charles A. Dodge, e. June 2, 1862. 

Sergt. John D. Lamb, e. June 2, 1862. 

Sergt. H. W. Sigworth, e. June 2, 1862. 

Corp. 0. T. P. Steinmetz, e. June 2, 1862. 

Corp. Ambrose Martin, e. June 2, 1862. 

Corp. Sidney Robins, e. June 2, 1862. 

Corp. Hazilas S. Ritz, e. June 2, 1862. 

Corp. William H. Hoyt, e. June 2, 1862. 

Corp. William H. Butler, e. June 2, 1862. 

Wagoner Jacob W. Pells, e. June 2, 1862. 

Armstrong, John T., e. June 2, 1862. 

Allen, T. M., e. June 2, 1862. 

Allen, N., e. June 2, 1862. 

Albright, Harrison, e. June 2, 1862. 

Adams, Taylor, e. June 2, 1862. 

Bitts, Jacob, e. June 2, 1862. 

Bollman, George. 

Clark, C. H., e. June 2, 1862. 

Cross, T. L. e. June 2, 1862. 

Carpenter, Horace, e. June 2, 1862. 

Denure, W., e. June 2, 1862. 

Dryer, Edward, e. June 2, 1862. 

Davenport, Lucius, e. June 2, 1862. 

Denton, Levi, e. June 2, 1862. 

Evans, L. A., e. June 2, 1862. 

Farley, James, e. June 2, 1862. 

Fain, John P., e. June 2, 1862. 

Friedman, V., e. June 2, 1862. 

Fye. Benjamin, e. June 2, 1862. 

Fye. Josiah. e. June 2, 1862. 

Griffing, D. J., e. June 2, 1862. 

Gilmore, George, e. June 2, 1862. 

Gafney, Michael. 

Gundy, A. M., e. June 2, 1862. 

Gates, H. H., e. June 2, 1862. 

George. John E., e. June 2, 1862. 

Grant, Smith H., e. June 2, 1862. 

Grant, R. C, e. June 2, 1862. 

Hagart, Sidney, e. June 2, 1862. 

Hagart, William, e. June 2, 1862. 

Hustin, William T., e. June 2, 1862. 

Hersey, Daniel, e. June 2, 1862. 

Jones, Robert, e. June 2, 1862. 

Kelly, Mathew, e. June 2, 1862. 

Layr, M., e. June 2, 1862. 

Lauver, George, e. June 2, 1862. 

Leverton, Isaac, e. June 2, 1862. 

Lee, Samuel, e. June 2, 1862. 

Lunt, A. M., e. June 2, 1862. 

Linderman, S., e. June 2, 1862. 

Martin, W. H., e. June 2, 1862. 

Martin, A. J., e. June 2, 1862. 



Maher, Ed. e. June 2, 1862. 
Mullen, John, e. June 2, 1862. 
Mock, Henrv, e. June 2, 1862. 
Miller, John H., e. June 2, 1862. 
McEathron, John S., e.June 2, 1862. 
Miller, J. C, e. June 2, 1862. 
Messinger, George, e. June 2, 1862. 
Miller, Zeri, e. June 2, 1862. 
Pickard, John S., e. June 2, 1862. 
Price, William, e. June 2, 1862. 
Phillips, Reuben, e. June 2, 1862. 
Rice, David E., e. June 2, 1862. 
Stout, Cyrus, e. June 2, 1862. 
Solace, Chester L., e. June 2, 1862. 
Stewart, Thomas M., e. June 2, 1862. 
Steckler, Daniel, e. June 2, 1862. 
Shoemaker, George, e. June 2, 1862. 
Van Sicklas, John, e. June 2, 1862. 
Walsh, F. A., e. June 2, 1862. 
Williams, George, e. June 2, 1862. 
Warner, Henry, e. June 2, 1862. 
Walton, A. D., e. June 2, 1862. 
Williams, L., e. June 2, 1862 



SEVENTY-FIRST REGIMENT. 

(Three Months.) 

Company B. 

Capt. Luther W. Black, com. July 22, 1862. 

Sergt. Wm. A. St. John, e. July 7, 1862. 

Sergt. John J. M. Brown, e. July 7, 1862. 

Corp. Jas. H. Cox, e. July 10, 1862. 

Andre, Geo. W., e. July 2, 1862. 

Bunce, Danforth, e. July 11, 1862. 

Barrott, Marion. 

DeFrain, Samuel, e. July 5, 1862. 

Durkee, D. M. 

Eells, Wm. A., e. July 15, 1862. 

Gettig, Aaron M., e. July 5, 1862. 

Hicks, James R. 

Hoflinger, Jacob, e. July 15, 1862. 

Klecker, John P., e. July 14, 1862. 

Klouts, John, e. July 7, 1862. 

Mitchell, Levi. 

Ritzman, Martin, e. July 8, 1862. 

Stites, Geo. W., e. July 10, 1862. 

Shippy, Chas., e. July 7, 1862. 

Shinkle, John, e. July 10, 1862. 

Snyder, Wm. H., e. July 14, 1862. 

Smith, Ellis, e. July 14, 1862. 

Snyder, John, e. July 12, 1862. 

Smith, James C, e. July 10, 1862. 

Stace, J. E. W , e. July 14, 1862. 

Sands, Jos. H., e. July 5, 1862. 

Soliday, Hy. 

Wilson, Henry, e. July 14, 1862. 

SEVENTY-FOURTH INFANTRY. 

Organized at Rockford and mustered into 
the United States service September 6, 1862. 
Companies G and I were from Ogle and Ste- 
phenson Counties ; all the rest were from Win- 
nebago County. Left Rockford September 27 
for Jeffersonville, Ind. Arrived there October 
1, and moved to Louisville, Ky., immediately. 
Assigned to Army of the Cumberland, First 
Brigade, Second Division, under Gen. Buell. 
Moved from Louisville October 7, and was in the 
battle of Chaplain Hills, Ky., October 13 ; from 
there to Crab Orchard, Ky., pursuing Bragg, 
participating in many skirmishes. Returned 
from Lebanon, Ky., October 25 ; from there it 
went to Nashville, Tenn., where a re-organiza- 
tion was effected, under Gen. Rosecrans. De- 
cember 25, received marching orders, with 
three days' rations. Participated in the battle 
of Stone River, December 30, 31, 1862, and Jan- 
uary 1, 1863, the regiment losing sixteen men 
killed and wounded. Went into winter quarters 
at Camp Little, south of Murfreesboro,and were 



334 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



engaged in numerous raids in the surrounding 
country. Moved from winter quarters July 
15; was in battle of Liberty Gap, July 20; 
one man killed ; was engaged at Tullahoma, 
Tenn. ; from here it was ordered to Winches- 
ter, Tenn., where it encamped. Moved August 
20, to Stevenson, Ala. Engaged at Chicka- 
mauga, September 18, 19 and 20; lost five 
men. The regiment on the latter date was in 
charge of hospital and supply trains, arriving 
at Chattanooga, Tenn., September 22. While 
here it had very short allowances until Novem- 
ber 22, when they participated in the fight of 
Mission Ridge, November 25, their colors being 
the first to pass over the rebel lines, capturing 
a battery of four pieces at Bragg' s headquar- 
ters ; loss to regiment, six privates. Col. Jason 
Marsh wounded, Lieut. Col. Kerr wounded in 
the arm. 

Returned to Chattanooga on the 26th, and 
marched to Knoxville, Tenn., to relieve Gen. 
Burnside, and then went into winter quarters 
about December 13. May 2, 1864, it joined the 
main army of the Cumberland at Chattanooga, 
where it arrived on the 3d ; on the 5th, marched 
under orders, and was in the battle of Rocky 
Face, or Buzzard Roost, Ga. ; was at Resaca, 
Ga., May 14 and 15; Calhoun, May 17; 
Adairsville, Ga., May 18; Dallas, Ga., May 
25 to June 5; Lost Mountain, Ga., June 16 ; 
was in the battle at Kenesaw Mountain, Ga., 
June 20 and June 27 ; lost fifty-two men and 
six commissioned officers, Lieut. Col. J. B. 
Kerr being among the number. Battle of 
Smyrna; Camp Ground, Ga., July 4, lost six- 
teen men ; was also at Peach Tree Creek, July 
20 ; Atlanta. July 22, and was continually 
engaged until the battle of Jonesboro, Ga., 
Sept. 1,1864, aud Lovejoy Station, Sept. 2; 
then returned to Chattanooga, Tenn., where it 
was assigned to the Army of the Tennessee. 
Engaged the enemy, November 28, at Colum- 
bia, Tenn. ; Spring Hill, November 29; Frank- 
lin, Tenn., November 30; Nashville, Tenn, 
December 15 and 16, following Hood to Hunts- 
ville, Ala., fighting him all the time until he 
crossed the Little Tennessee and then went 
into winter quarters. March 26, 1865. it 
marched to Bull's Gap, Tenn., to intercept 
Lee, leaving there April 17, for Nashville, 
Tenn., where the regiment was mustered out 
June 20, 1865. Returned to Rockford with 
157 enlisted men and thirteen officers. Col. 
Jason Marsh was at the head of the regiment 
until about Jan. 1, 1865, when Lieut. Col. 
Thomas J. Bryan took command. 

First Asst. Surg. Chesseldon Fisher, com. 2d asst. surg. 
Sept. 28, 1862, prmtd. March 24, 1863, surg. 75th regt. 

Company 1. 

C'apt. Wm, Irvin, com. Sept. 4, 1862, res. Jan. 28, 1863. 
Cap*. Frederick W. Stegner, com. 1st lieut. Sept. 4, 1862, 

prmtd. Capt. Jan. 28, 1863, kid. in battle June 27, '64. 
Capt. Daniel Cronemillur, com. 2d lieut. Sept. 4, 1862, 

prmtd 1st lieut. Jan. 28, 1863, prmtd. capt. June 27, 

1864. 
First Lieut. Edgar W Warner, e. as sergt. Aug. 11, 1862, 

prmtd 2d lieut. Jan. 28, 1863, prmtd. 1st lteut. June 

27, 1864, disd. Sept. 1, 1864. 
First Lieut. Robert P. Gift, e. as sergt. Aug. 14, 1862, 

prmtd. 1st lieut. June 27, 1864. 



Sergt. Johnson Porter, e. Aug. 14, 1862, disd. June 17, '63. 
Sergt. John A. Mullarkey, e. Aug. 14 1862, died June 28, 

1864, wd. 
Corp. James B. Rowray, e. Aug. 14, 1862, disd. for disab. 
I k>rp. J. Steward, e. Aug. 14, 1862, trans to V. R. ('. 
Corp. Charles Hunt, e. Aug. 14, 1862, m. o. June 10, 1865. 
Corp. Uriah Boyden, e. Aug. 14, 1862, disd. Dec. 20, 1862, 

dlsab. 
Corp. Jacob Kehm, e. Aug. 14, 1862, disd. for disab. 
Hi-nsey, John. e. Aug. 14, 1862, disd. June 16, 1864, wd. 
Wagoner Wm. Vore, e. Aug. 14, 1862, disd. March 4 '63, 

disab. 
Andrews, Jacob, e. Aug. 14, 1862, m. o. as corp. 
Anderson, Ole, e. Aug. 14, 1862, disd. March 31, '63, disab. 
Ashenfelter, Moses, e. Aug. 14, 1862. 
Ashenfelter, Franklin, e. Aug. 14. 1862, disd. Dec. 6, 1862, 

disab. 
Bellman, Wm., e. Aug. 14, 1862, died Dec. 4, 1862. 
Bener, Jos., e. Aug. 14, 1862, died March 11, 1865. 
Benning, Gottleib, e. Aug 14. 1862. 
Bingman, Robert, e. Aug. 14, 1862, died May 16, 1864. 
Boos, Wm , e. A tig. 14, 1862, missing in action. 
Bokhoff, Wm., e. Aug. 14, 1862. 

Boughton, George W., e. Aug. 14, 1862, trans, to V. R. O. 
Bough thampt, Jacob, e. Aug. 14, 1862, disd. March 11, 

1863, disab. 

Bramin. Edwin, e. Aug. 14, 1862, disd. June 27, '63, disab 

Burrell, Robert, e. Aug. 14, 1862. 

Clark, Orla, e. Aug. 14, 1862, missing in action. 

Cole, Sidney, e. Aug 14, 1862, died Nov. 5, 1862. 

Ebling, Peter, e. Aug. 14, 1862, trans, to V. R. C. 

Englot, Gregory, e. Aug. 14 1862, m. o. June 10, 1866 

Feeny, John, e. Aug. 14, 1862, trans, to V. R. C. 

Feeney, Henry. 

Ferico, John, e. Aug. 14, 1862 .died March 22, 1863. 

Flinn, Jos., e. Aug. 14, 1862. 

Fuoss, Daniel, e. Aug. 14, 1862, disd March 7, 1865, disab. 

Hensev, Fred., e. Aug. 14, 1862, died in battle June 27, 

1864, corp. 

Henderson, O. P., e. Aug. 14, '62, disd. July 18, '63, disab. 
Hultz, Benj., e. Aug. 14, '62, disd. December 27, '62, disab. 
Inman Austin, e. Aug. 15, 1862, died June 27, 1864. 
Jennewine, Thomas, e. Aug. 14, 1862, died Jan. 2, '63, wd. 
Keagle, Wm. H , e. Aug. 14, 1862, died Dec. 13, 1862. 
Keagle, James G., e. Aug. 14, 1862, disd. May 22, 1865. 
Keagle, F. B., e. Aug 14, 1862. trans, to U. S. EngB. 
Keller, Adam, e. Aug. 14, 1862. 
Knudson, Nels, e. Aug. 14, 1862, died Nov. 26, 1S62. 
Laber. Levi, e. Aug. 14, 1862, disd. March, 15, 1863, disab. 
Lapp, Samuel, e. Aug. 14, 1862, died Jan. 5, 1863. 
Masmin, Fred, e. Aug. 14, 1862, kid. June 18, 1864. 
McCarty, Thomas, e. Aug. 14, 1862, disd. Jan. 27, 1863, 

disab. 
Miller, Fredk., e. Sept. 25, 1862. 

McGrane, Peter, e. Aug. 14, 1862, disd. Dec. 18, '62, disab. 
Mullarkev, Chas., e. Aug. 14, 1862, disd. Nov. 5, 1862, disab. 
Mullarkey, John, e. Aug. 14, 1862,disd. Nov. 5, 1862, disab. 
Neidle, Rudolph, e. Aug. 14, 1862, m. o. as corp. 
Miller, Frederick. 

O'Mealy, Patrick, e. Aug. 14, 1862, m. o. as corp. 
Oleson, Talliff, e. Aug. 14, 1862, disd. March 22, '63, disab. 
Peterson, Elias E., e. Aug. 14, '62, disd. Feb. 2, '63, disab. 
Richardson, Henry, e. Aug. 9, 1862, disd. March 26, 1863. 
Schoolcraft, Whitney, e. Aug. 15. 1862, trans, to V. R. C. 
Seward, John, e. Aug. 14, 1862, prmtd. corp., then sergt. 

pris., m. o. June 27, 1866. 
Sheckler. James W., e. Aug. 21, 1862, disd. Feb. 12, 1863, 

disab. 
Sheckler. Thomas, e, Aug. 14, '62, disd. Jan. 27, '63, disab. 
Snyder, Perry, e. Aug. 14, 1862, m. o. as corp. 
Snyder, Jackson, e. Aug. 14, '62, disd. March 26, '63, disab. 
Stinson, E. H., e. Aug. 14, 1862, trans, to 36th inf. 
Spaulding, D. G., e. Aug. 9, 1862, trans, to V. R. C. 
Spaulding, A. C, e. Aug. 14, 1862, disd. Feb. 10, '65, disab. 
Tunks, Alfred, e. Aug. 14, 1862, disd July 6, 1863, disab. 
Van Valkenburg L. H., e. Aug. 14, 1862, kid. June 27,'64. 
Waggoner, Jacob, e. Aug. 15. 1862. m. o. as sergt. 
Webb, E. Boone, e. Aug. 14, 1862, trans, to. V. R. C. 
Winkle, Fredk., e. Aug. 15, 1862, m. o. June 10, 1865. 
Webster, 0. B., e. Sept. 30, 1864. 



NINETIETH INFANTRY. 

The Ninetieth Infantry, Illinois Volunteers, 
was organized at Chicago, 111., in August, Sep- 
tember and -October, 1862, by Col. Timothy 
O'Meara. Moved to Cairo November 27, and 
to Columbus, Ky., on the 30th. From thence, 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



385 



proceeded to La Grange. Tenn., where the reg- 
iment arrived December 2. On the 4th, or- 
dered to Cold Water, Miss., where it relieved 
the Twenty-ninth Wisconsin Infantry. On the 
morning of December 20, a detachment of Sec- 
ond Illinois Cavalry arrived at Cold Water, 
havingcut their way through Van Dorn's forces, 
out of Holly Springs. Soon after, four com- 
panies of the One Hundred and First Illinois 
came in. and were followed by the enemy to 
our lines. The demonstrations made by the 
Ninetieth deterred the enemy from making any 
severe attack, although he was 4,000 or 5,000 
strong, and after some skirmishing, he with- 
drew. The regiment was mustered out of 
service June 6, 18G5, at Washington, D. C, and 
arrived at Chicago. June 12, 1865, where it 
received final pay and discharge. 

Company A. 

Barrett, Patrick, Aug. 5, 1862. 

Barn, Michael, Sr., e. Aug. 5, 1862, disd. March 1, 1865, 

disab. 
Broderick, David, e. Aug. 5, 1862, kid. July 12, 1863, at 

Jackson, Miss. 
Carroll, John, e. Aug. 5, 1862. 
Caton, Wm., e. Aug. 5, 1862, kid. Nov. 25, 1863. 
Cranney, Patrick, e. Aug. 5,1862. died March 28, 1863. 
Crawley, John, e. Aug. 5, 1862, died May 18, 1863. 
Foley, James, e. Aug. 5, 1862. 
Kennelly, Edward, e. Aug. 5, 1862, absent at m. o. of 

regt. wd. 
McCormick, J., e. Aug. 5, 1862. 

Company C. 

McCarty, Dennis, e. Aug. 15, 1862, kid. Nov. 25, 1863. 

Company I. 

First Lieut. William Brice, com. April 7, 1865, m. o. June 

6, 1865. 
Second Lieut. John J. O'Leary, com. Oct. 31, 1862, res. 

Feb. 1,1863. 
Sergt. John Doogan, e. Aug. 16, 1862, died Sept. 2, '64, wd. 
Sergt. Willia m Brice, e. Aug. 14, 1862, prmtd. lieut. 
Sergt. Neil. O'Garrey, Aug. 16, 1862, died Jan. 21, 1863. 
Corp. William Con well, e. Aug. 16, 1862, m. o. as sergt. 
Coip. Thomas B. Eagan, e. Aug. 17, 1862. 
Corp. Elisha N. Strong, e. Aug. 14, 1862, disd. Sept. 4, '63. 
Brennan, Edw., e. Aug. 16, 1862. 
Burns, Cornelius, e. Aug. 14, 1862. 
Coughlin, John, e. Aug. 8, 1862. 
Cooney, Francis, e. Aug. 14, 1862. 
Crawford. John, e. Aug. 16, 1862, died June 18, 1864. 
Cane, James, e. Aug. 9, 1862. 
Chichester, Merit, e. Aug. 7, 1862, disd. March 13, 1864, 

disab. 
Enright, James, e. Aug. 9, 1862. 
Flannighan, M., e, Aug. 8, 1862, trans, to V. E. *'. 
Frost, H. 0., e. Aug. 15, 1862. 
Gallaher, Charles, e. Aug. 16, 1862. 
Griffin Patrick, e. Aug. 14, 1862. 

Laughran, James, e. Aug. 11, 1862, died Aug. 21, 1864. 
McAndrews, M., e. Aug. 12, 1862, disd. April 16, 1864, 

disab. 
McSweenev, E., e. Aug. 12, 1862. 
JVlcIntyre, Timothy, e. Aug. 14, 1862. 
Moynahan, Anthony, e. Aug. 10, 1862. 
Moonev, Thomas, e. Aug. 17, 1862. 
Meena'han, John. e. Aug. 18, 1862. 
Moynahan, John, e. Aug. 14, 1862. 
Mulligan, James, e. Aug. 17, 1S62, m. o. as musician. 
O'Connell, Daniel, e. Aug. 11, 1862. 
O'Connor, Charles, e. Aug. 18, 1862, died Sept. 16, 1863. 
O'Brien B-rnarrt, e. Aug 9, 1862. 
Powers, James, e. Aug. Hi. 1862. died Sept. 14, 1863. 
Ryan, John, e. Aug. 12, 1862. 
Wilkinson, John, e. Aug. 15, 1862. 
Whalen, M., e. Aug. 10, 1862, died Aug. 21, 1864. 



NINETY-SECOND INFANTRY. 

The Ninety-second Regiment Infantry Illi- 
nois Volunteers was organized at Rockford, 



[ 111., and mustered into the United States serv- 
| ice September 4, 1862. It was composed of five 
{ compares from Ogle County, three from Ste- 
phenson ' ounty, and two from Carroll County. 
j The regiment left Rockford, October 11, 1862, 
with orders to report to Gen. Wright, at Cin- 
! cinnati. where it was assigned to Gen. Baird's 
Division. Army of Kentucky. It inarched 
immediately into the interior of the State, and 
during the latter part of October was stationed 
at Mt. Sterling, to guard that place against 
rebel raids, and afterward at Danville, Ky. 
On the 26th of January, 1863, the regiment, 
with Gen. Baird's Division, was ordered to the 
Army of the Cumberland. Arriving at Nash- 
ville, the command moved to Franklin, Tenn., 
and was engaged in the pursuit of the rebel 
Gen. Van Dorn. Advanced to Murfreesboro, 
and occupied Shelbyville, June 27. On July 
5, the regiment was engaged in rebuilding a 
wagon-bridge over Duck River ; July 6, was 
ordered by Gen. Rosecrans to be mounted and 
armed with ^he Spencer rifle, and attached to 
Col. Wilder' s Brigade of Gen. Thomas' Corps, 
where it remained while Gen. Rosecrans had 
command. The regiment crossed the moun- 
tains at Dechard, Tenn., and took part in the 
movements opposite and above Chattanooga, 
when it recrossed the mountains and joined 
Gen. Thomas at Trenton, Ala. On the morning 
of the 9th of September, it was in the advance 
to Chattanooga, and participated in driving the 
rebels from Point Lookout, and entered the 
rebel stronghold, unfolding the Union banner 
on the Crutchfield House, and kept in pursuit 
of the rebels. At Ringgold, Ga., was attacked 
by a brigade of cavalry, under command of 
Gen. Forrest, and drove them from the town, 
killing and wounding a large number. During 
the Chickamauga battle, the regiment took 
part in Gen. Reynolds' Division of Gen. 
Thomas' Corps. In April, 1864, it was again 
at Ringgold, Ga., doing picket duty. April 
23, Capt. Scovil, with twenty-one men, was 
captured at Nickajack Gap, nine miles from 
Ringgold, and one man killed. Of the men 
thus taken prisoners, twelve were shot down, 
and six died of wounds, after being taken 
prisoners. The remainder were taken to 
Andersonville; and very few ever left that 
place, having died from the cruel treatment 
received there. From Ringgold, May 7, 1864, 
the regiment entered upon the Atlanta cam- 
paign, and was assigned to Gen. Kilpatrick's 
command, and participated in the battles of 
Resaca, raid around Atlanta. Bethesda, Fleet 
River Bridge, and Jouesboro. The regiment 
lost, at Jonesboro, one-fifth of the men 
engaged. From Mount Gilead Church, west of 
Atlanta, October 1, the regiment moved, and 
took an aciive part in the operations against 
Hood's army. At Powder Springs it had a 
severe engagement, losing a large number of 
men, killed and wounded. The regiment then 
returned to Marietta, and participated in the 
various engagements and skirmishes in Slier- 
man's march to the sea. At Swift Creek, N. 
ft, Capt. Hawk, of Co. C, was severely 



336 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



wounded, losing a ieg. The regiment, during 
its term of service, was in some forty battles 
and skirmishes. It was mustered out at Con- 
cord, N. C, and paid and discharged from the 
service, at Chicago, 111., July 10. 1865. 

Col. Smith D. Atkins, com. Sept. 4, 1862, prmtd. brvt. brig. 

gen. 
Lieut. Col. Christopher T. Dunham, com. capt. Co. F. 

Sept. 4, 18<)2, prmtd. maj. April 21,1804, com. declined. 
Adjt. Isan C. Lawver, com. Sept. 6, 1862, res. Oct. 1, 1864. 
Adjt. Charles C. Tret-guard, prmtd. 1st lieut. Co. G Feb. 

14, 1863, prmtd. nd.jt. Oct. 1, 1864. 
Quartermaster Phillip Sweeley, e. as private Sept. 3, 1861, 

prmtd. quartermaster June 4, 1864. 
Sergt. Maj. Noah Perrin, e. Aug. 9, 1862, disd. Feb. 25, 

1863. 
Hospital Steward David C. Grier, disd. Dec. 6, 1862. 

Company A. 

Capt. William J. Bollinger, com. Sept. 4, 1862, res. Dec. 

25, 1862. 
Capt. Harvey W. Timms, com. 1st lieut. Sept. 4. 1862, 

prmtd. capt. Dec. 25, 1862, trans, to Co. I, 65th inf. 
First Lieut. William Cox. com. 2d lieut. Sept. 4, 1862, 

prmtd. 1st lieut. Dec. 25, 1862, hon. disd. May 15, 1865. 
Second Lieut. William H. Frost, e. as 1st sergt. Aug. 

9, 1862, prmtd. 2d lieut. Dec. 25, 1862. 
Sergt. Legrand M. Cox, e. Aug. 9, 1862, disd. Jan. 27,1865, 

disab. 
Sergt. W. C. Goddard, e. Aug. 11, 1862, died Nov. 7, 1862. 
Sergt. Jesse R. Leigh, e. August 9, 1862. 
Corp. Charles S. Vincent, e. Aug. 13, 1862. 
Corp. M. P. Eldridge, e. Aug. 9, 1862, disd. April 12, 1863, 

disab. 
Corp. Henry Rudy, e. Aug. 11, 1862, died July 27, 1863. 
Corp. William W. Smith, e. Aug. 11, 1862, died Feb. 17, 

1863. 
Sergt. George Metcalf, e. August 12, 1862, died March 3, 

1863. 
Corp. H. Dusenbury, e. August 9, 1862, disd. April 3, 

1864, disab. 
Corp. Roswell Eldridge, e. Aug. 9, 1862. 
Corp. Daniel Deneere, e. Aug. 9, 1862. 
Musician George Boop, e. Aug. 7, 1862. 
Musician John J. Lower, e. Aug. 14, 1862. 
Wagoner George C. Mack, e. Aug. 13, 1862, kid. Feb. 11, 

1865. 
Armagast, Hugh S., e. Aug 15, 1862, died Nov. 20. 1862. 
Armagast, James C, e. Aug. 15, 1862, m. o. as corp. 
Butler, D. W., e. Aug 9, 1862, disd. April 8, 1865, disab. 
Beach, Jay A., e. Aug. 9, 1862. 
Boddy, William, e. Aug. 9, 1862. 
Baker, William H. H., e. Aug. 26, 1862, disd. April 13, 

1863, disab. 
Balliett, D. M., e. Oct. 17, 1864. trans, to 65th inf. 
Balliett, Henry, e. Oct. 7, 1864, trans, to 65th inf. 
Buchanan, Charles, e. Jan. 20, 1865, trans, to 65th inf. 
Baker, Lambert, e. Aug. 11, 1862, disd. April 13, 1863, disab. 
Basinger, W. H., e. Aug. 15, 1862, disd. Aug. 29, 1863, 

disab. 
Beverley, William H., e. Aug. 15, 1862. 
Babcock, John S., e. Aug. 14, 1862, disd. March 13, 1863, 

disab. 
Babbitt, C. W., e. Aug. 7, 1862. 

Baum, S. Y., e. Aug. 13, 1862, disd. March 23, 1865, as corp. 
Churchill, E. 8., e. March 22, 1864. 
Caldwell, J., e. Aug. 15, 1862, m. o. as corp. 
Churchill, George W., e. Sept. 20, 1862. 
Cheney, Chester, e. Aug. 14, 1862. 
Cheney, M., e. Aug. 15, 1862. 
Cole, W. D., e. Auk. 14, 1862, disd. Aug. 9, 1863. 
Denure, W. J , e. Feb. 8, 1864. 

Demons, John, Aug. 9, 1862, died Sept. 23, 1S64, wds. 
Dunn, Joseph I., e. Aug. 11, 1862, disd. Feb. 2, 1863, disab. 
Egleston, Charles W., e. Aug. 9, 1862, disd. May 26, 1865, 

disab. 
Erb, William, e. Aug. 9, 1862, kid. Dec. 4, 1864. 
Gaylord, D. C, e. Aug. 13, 1862, disd. Sept. 9, 1863, disab. 
Gaylord, F. H., e. Aug. 11, 1862. 
Gunsaul, Joseph, e. Aug. 9, 1862. 
Giddings, H. M., e. Aug. 14, 1862. 
Gossman, Charles, e. Aug. 13, 1862. 
Gelz, Leonard, e. Aug. 22, 1862. 

Haishbarger, Sam'l, e. Feb. 8, 1864, trans, to 65th inf. 
Hatch, Wellington, e. Aug. 11, 1862, died Dec. 23, 1862. 
Hoppe, Ernst, e. Aug. 14, 1862. 
Haynes, W. E., e. Aug. 15, 1862. 
Judson, Chas. 0., e. Aug. 11, 1862, dis. May 26, 1863, disab. 



Johnson, Geo., e. Aug. 11, 1862, died Feb. 27, 1863. 
Knox, H. B., e. Aug. 11, 1862. 
Mack, H. B. e. Aug- 11, 1862. 
Miller, M. R., e. Aug. 11, 1862, died Sept. 26, 1864. 
Moothart, Wm. P., e. Feb. 29, 1864, trans, to 65th inf. 
McCarty, Thomas, e. Jan. 20, 1865, trans, to 65th inf. 
Merrill, E. A., e. Aug. 13, 1862, disd. March 31, '63, disab. 
Miller, G. D., e. Feb. 8, 1864, disd. May 26, 1865. 
Marshall, Chas. F., e. Aug. 9, 1862, sick at m. o. 
McCracken, John H., e. Aug. 14, 1862, sick at m. o. 
Newman, R., e. Jan. 18, 1864, trans, to 65th inf. 
Pickard, Luther, e. Feb. 8, 1864, trans, to 65th inf. 
Prouty, Jas. N, e. Aug. 9, 1862, disd. March 30, 1863, to en- 
list in naval service. 
Place, R. R., e. Aug. 11, 1862, disd. March 1, 1863, disab. 
Pencil, Wm. L., e. Aug. 11, 1862, disd. Sept. 11, 1863. 
Rand, N. A., e. Aug. 9, 1862. 
Reeder, John P., e. Aug. 11, 1862. 

Robbins, Henry, e. Aug. 11, 1862, disd. April 28, '63, disab. 
Richardson, Geo. W., e. Aug. 12, 1862. 
Robins, S. L., e. Feb. 8, 1864. 
Stocks, H. W., e. Feb. 12, 1S64. 
Stover, S. G., Aug. 13, 1862, sick at in. o. 
Sweeley, Phillip. 
Stocks, H. W. 

Thompson, John R., e. Aug. 9, 1S62, trans, to inv. corps. 
Tyler, Dolphns, e. Aug. 9, 1862, disd. March 20, '63, disab. 
Tyler, N. (!., e. Aug. 21, 1862, m. o. June 4, 1866. 
Taylor, James, e. Aug. 11, 1862, sick at m. o. 
Tumbleson.John K., e. Aug. 11,1862. 
Welden, L. A., e. Aug. 13, 1862. 
Wright, W. W., e. Aug. 11, 1862, sick at ni. o. 
Wickwire, W. H, e. Aug. 11,1862. 
Wire, Valson, e. Aug. 13, 1862, dis. Feb. 5, 1863, disab. 
Wire, Jasper A., e. Aug. 15, 1862. 

Withey, Wm. F., e. Aug. 11, 1862, disd. Feb. 23, 1863, disab. 
Williams, A. R.,e. Aug. 15, 1862, died March 13, 1863. 
Wendling, M., e. Sept. 20, 1862, sick at m. o. 

Company F. 

Capt. William B. Mayer, e. as 1st sergt. Aug. 2, 1862, 

prmtd. 2d lieut. Dec. 24, 1862, prmtd. capt. April 21, 

1864, m. o. as 2d lieut. 
Second Lieut. William C. Dove, com. Sept. 4, 1862, res. 

Dec. 24, 1862. 
Second Lieut. Charles M. Knapp, e. as sergt. Aug. 10, 

1862, prmtd. to 2d lieut. April 21, 1864, commission 

canceled. 
Second Lieut. James M. Work, e. as sergt. Aug. 12, 1862, 

prmtd. 2d lieut. April 21, 1864, m. o. as sergt. June 

21, 1865. 
Sergt. Samuel G. Trine, e. Aug. 12, 1862, disd. 
bergt. George Acker, e. Aug. 6, 1862, disd. March 20,1863. 
Corp. Charles Purinton, e. Aug, 15, '62, died Feb. 10, '63. 
Corp. E. C. Winslow, e. Aug. 15, 1862. 
Corp. Harvev Ferrin, e. Aug. 7, 1862. 
Corp. J. C. Bigger, e. Aug. 10, 1862, disd. Dec. 29, 1863. 
Corp. A. Hemmenway, e. Aug. 13, 1862. 
Corp. A. H. Furman, e. Aug. 11, 1862, disd. April 27, '64. 
Corp. D. R. Voight, e. Aug. 10, 1862, died Feb. 6, 1863. 
Musician Jacob M. Turneaure, e. Aug. 10, 1862, 
Musician William H. H. Turneaure, e. Aug. 10, 1862. 
Aurand, Thomas J., e. Aug. 6, 1862, kid. Oct. 6, 1864. 
Aurand, Joel, e. Aug. 6, 1862, sick at m. o. 
Allen, Hiram, e. Aug. 11, 1862. 
Anderson, Charles A., e. Aug. 15, 1862, disd. March 23, 

1864, disab. 
Adams, B. F., e. Aug. 11, 1862, died Aug. 25, 1863. 
Allard, M., e. Aug. 22, 1862. 
Allan!, Stephen, e. Aug. 21,1862. 
Atkins, John C, e. Feb. 8, 1864, disd. March 30, 1865. 
Atkins, George G., disd. Feb. 3, 1863. 
Baker, P. G., e. Aug. 9, 1862, captd. June 22, 1864. 
Buckman, Z. S., e. Aug. 11, 1862. 
Burgess, D. R., e. Aug. 14, 1862, trans, to Ellet's Ram 

Fleet. 
Branenger, D., e. Aug. 15, 1862. 
Babb, D. P., e. Aug. 15, 1862. 
Berry, John, e. Aug. 19, 1862. 
Baker, Elmus, e. Feb. 3, 1864, trans, to 65th Inf. 
Bentley, N. S., e. Jan. 29, 1864, trans, to 65th Inf. 
Colby, A. H, e. Aug. 14, 1862, sick at m. o. 
Colton, John, e. Aug. 15, 18o2, disd. Feb. 14, 1864. 
Cuff, John, e. Aug. 15, 1862. 
Clark, Thomas, e. Aug. 14, 1S62, sick at m. o. 
Clark, S. J., e. Feb. 3, 1864, trans, to 65th Inf. 
Countryman, Adam, e. Feb. 29, 1864, kid. Oct. 26, 1864. 
Dummal, H, e. Aug. 14, 1862. 

Engleman, Solomon, e. Feb. 12, 1864, trans, to 65th inf. 
Engleman, Jacob, e. Feb. 12, 1864, trans, to 65th Inf. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



337 



Eaton, Unas H., e. Aug. 10, 1862, disd. March 29, 1863. 

Fox, James, e. Aug. 15, 1862. 

Friery, John, e. Aug. 15, 1862, died Dec. 29, 1863. 

Fox, Henry, e. Oct. 10, 1864, trans, to 65th Inf. 

Grier, David C. 

Giddings, Luther, e. Aug. 15, 1862. 

Gregory, John, e. Feb. 8, 1864, trans, to 65th Inf. 

Holmes, Spencer, e. Aug. 2, 1862, disd. Feb. 23, 1863. 

Hoy, Henry, e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Hetherton, James, e. Aug. 14, 1862. 

Haum, Valentine, e. Aug. 11, 18G2, died Jan. 10, 1863. 

Hodgess, James P., e. Jan. 5, 1864, m. o. Oct. 9, 1864, for 

promotion. 
Krotzer, Jacob, e. Aug. 2, 1862, sick at m. o. 
Kester, Asa, e. Aug. 13, 1802, died Feb. 28, 1863. 
Lambert, E., e. Aug. 14, 1862. died Nov. 13, 1863. 
Lambert, Jere, e. Aug. 14, 1862. 
Long, Benj. F., e. Aug. 14, 1862, died Jan. 30, 1863. 
Long, Jonathan, e. Aug. 6, 1862. 
Lamme, Jacob, e. Aug. 10, 1862. 
Mitchell, O. J., e. Aug. 9, 1862, died Feb. 17, 1863. 
Miller, A. W., e. Aug. 9, 1862. 
Mo wry, John, e. Feb. 3, 1864, trans, to 65 th inf. 
Morris, Willington, Feb. 3, 1864, trans, to 65th inf. 
Metz, L., e. Aug. 9, 1862. 
Marl, George E., e. Aug. 10, 1862. 
McNeal, Thomas, e. Oct. 10, 1 864, trans, to 65th inf. 
Owen, Henry, e. Aug. 15, 1862. 
Pope, Wm. W., Aug. 12, 1862. 
Preston, Charles A., e. Aug. 12, 1862. 
Penticoff, Daniel, e. Aug. 13, 1862. 
Penticoff, Samuel, e. Aug. 10, 1862, trans, to inv. 
Pope, Abraham, e. Aug. 11, 1862. 
Petermire, Fred, e. Aug. 21, 1862. 
Reese, A. G., e. Feb. 18, 1864, trans, to 65th inf. 
Reese, W. H. S., Feb. 24, 1865, trans, to 65th inf. 
Rodgers, Edw., e. Oct. 10, 1864, trans, to 65th inf. 
Rodgers, L. W., e. Aug. 10, 1862, died Feb. 28, 1863. 
Sanders, James, e. Aug. 30, 1862. 
Sager, Conrad, e. Aug. 15, 1862. 
Sedam, L. H., e. Aug. 14, 186.*. 
Srn^llwood, James, e. Aug. 12, 1862. 
Schlott, John H., e. Jan. 23, 1864, trans, to 05th inf. 
Sweet, Noah, e. Oct. 10, 1864, trans, to 65th inf. 
Sweet, M. A., e. Dec. 24, 1863, disd. 
Truckemiller, E. G., e. Aug. 19, 1862. 
Thompson, George, e. Aug. 14, 1862, died Oct. 11, 1863. 
Tarbert, Andrew, e. Aug. 15, 1862, disd. June 18, 1863. 
Thomas, E., e. Aug. 29, 1862, m. o. as sergt. 
Ventevier, George W., e. Feb. 26, 1864. 
Wilson, John A., e. Aug. 10,' 1862. 
Work, VV., e. Aug. 15, 1862. 

Wilcoxon, O. D., e. Feb. 12, 1864, died June 5, 1865. 
Williams, F. J., e. Feb. 3, 1864. 

Whiteside, Thomas F., e. Aug. 12, 1862, died Feb. 20, '63. 
Whiting, Warren, e. Aug. 12, 1862. 
Wright, William, e. Aug. 6, 1862, died Feb. 21, 1863. 
Young, Elias, e. Aug. 15, 1862. 

Company C. 

Capt. John M. Schermerhorne, com. Sept 4, 1862. 

First Lieut. John Gish wilier, com. Sept. 4, 1862, res. Feb. 

14, 1863. 
First Lieut. Harry G. Fowler, e.' as sergt. Aug. 9, 1862, 

prmtd. 1st lieut. May 10, 1865. 
Second Lieut. Justin N. Parker, com. Sept. 4, 1862, res. Feb. 

6, 1863. 
Second Lieut. Wm. McCammon, e. as sergt. Aug. 9, 1862, 

prmtd. 2d lieut. Feb. 6, 1863. 
Sergt. Noah Perrin. 

First Sergt. Chas. C. Fragard, e. Aug. 9, 1862, prmtd. lieut. 
Sergt. G. G. Manny, e. Aug. 9, 1862, m. o. as sergt. 
Corp. Geo. Byrum, e. Aug. 9, 1862, died April 22, 1863. 
Corp. J. L. Doxsee, e. Aug. 9, 1862, m. o. as sergt. 
Corp. Albert Van Epps, e. Aug. 9, 1862. 
Corp. Wallace R. Giddings, e. Aug. 9, 1862, died Aug. 30, 

1864. 
Corp. Joseph B. Train, e. Aug. 9, 1862, trans, to inv. corps. 
<V>rp. Wm. Back, e. Aug. 9, 1862, missing in action. 
Corp. Wm. E Stewart, e. Aug. 9, 1862. 
Wagoner Thomas Fleming, e. Aug. 8 1862, disd. March 1, 

1863, disab. 
Austin, H. M., e. Aug. 9, 1862. 
Andrews Silas, e. Oct. 10, 1864, trans, to 65th inf. 
Armagast, A., e. Aug. 9, 1862, disd. Feb. 13, 1865. 
Beine,Carl F.,e. Aug. 9, 1862, disd. Aug. 26, 1864, wds. 
Bunker. Hollis M., e. Aug. 9, 1862. 
Bennett, Thos. J., e. Aug. 9, lsi,j. 
Baysinger, Alex., e. Aug. 9, 1862. 
Bunker, Hiram, e. Jan. 29, 1864, trans, to 65th inf. 



Betz, Jacob, e. Feb. 29, 1864, kid. June 22, 1864. 

Burbridge, W. M., e. Feb. 3, 1864, trans, to 65th inf. 

Butler, Wm. H.. e. Feb. 12, 1864, trans, to 65th inf. 

Best, Jacob, e. Feb. 8, 1864, disd. Feb. 26, 1865. 

Bennett, M. L., e. Feb. 11, 1865, trans, to 65th inf. 

Bartholomew, W., e. Feb. 24, 1865, trans, to 65th inf. 

Best, Jacob S. 

Bartlett, Thomas H. 

Clark, Henry H., e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Cornforth, John, e. Aug. 9, 1862, died May 18, 1865, wds. 

Curtis, Wm. U., e. Aug. 9, 1862, sick at m. o. 

Clark. R. M., e. Aug. 9, 1862, trans, to inv. corps. 

Cox, H., e. Aug. 9, 1862, trans, to inv. corps. 

Corning, N, e. Aug. 9, 1862, kid. Sept. 19, 1863. 

Clair, Davis B., e. Aug. 9, 1862, disd. Feb. 18, 1863, disab. 

Crouch, J., e. Dec. 26, 1863, died Feb. 13, 1865. 

Cox, Jas. H., e. Dec. 21, 1863, trans, to 65th inf. 

Colton, John C, e. Dec. 19, 1863, trans, to 65th inf. 

Chambers, John B., trans, to 65th inf. 

Delong, A., e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Dalrymple, S. L., e. Aug. 9, 1862, dis. Nov. 8, 1864, disab. 

Dall, Chas. A., e. Aug. 9, 1862, dis. Feb. 3, 1863, disab. 

Drew, Jos., e. Aug. 9, 1862, m. o. as corp. 

Dickhomer, Wm., e. Aug. 9, 1862, died June 30, 1863. 

Empfleld, Wm. J., e. Aug. 9, 1862, died March 14, 1863. 

Feeley D. M., e. , trans, to 65th inf. 

FiBk, Amos, e. Aug. 9, 1862, died June 13, 1863. 

Ford, L. A., e. Aug. 9, 1862, died Jan. 2, 1863. 

Foreman, James, e. Aug. 9, 1862, sick at m. o. 

Fair, L. W., e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Foley, Patrick, e. Aug. 9, 1862, disd. June 24, 1863, disab. 

Fair, H. L., e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Gates, H. H., e. Dec. 19, 1863, trans, to 65th inf. 

Glanz, Chris, e. Dec. 26, 1863, trans, to 65th inf. 

Grinnel, P. L., e. Oct. 7, 1864, trans, to 65th inf. 

Giltner, James W., e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Grossman, D., e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Graves, C. S., e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Galbraith, Joseph, e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Galbraith, William, e. Aug. 9, 1862, disd. Dec. 28, 1864. 

Honser, Chris, e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Hilliard, William J., e. Aug. 9, 1862, sick at m. o. 

Hawkins, William, e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Hawkins, George S., e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Houser, Samuel, e. Aug. 9, 1862, m. o. as corp. 

Haggart, Darius, e. Aug. 9, 1862, corp. sick at m. o. 

Houser, Abram, e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Haggart, William H., e. Dec. 30, 1863, trans, to 65th inf. 

Huston, William T., e. Dec. 30, 1863, trans, to 65th inf. 

Hays, S. E., e. Dec. 19, 1863, trans, to 65th inf. 

Henderson, Joseph, e. Feb. 12, 1864, trans, to 65th inf. 

Harrington, John, e. Feb. 5, 1864, trans, to 65th inf. 

Hampugh, Gustav, e. . 

Isaacson, Isaac, e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Keeler, N. F., e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Kena, Charles, e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Roller, Earnest, e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Klaas, August, e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Kiplinger, James E., e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Reiser, Charles N., e. Aug. 9, 1862, died Oct. 14, 1863. 

Ladd, John, e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Lawver, George, e. Jan. 29, 1864, trans, to 65th inf. 

Moor, Emanuel, e. Aug., 1862, sick at m. o. 

Mahony, D. L., e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

McCausland, A. L., e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

McStay, Edward, e. Aug. 9, 1862, disd. Sept. 8, 1864, disab. 

Maliany, William G., e. Aug. 9, 1862, disd. June 2, 1863, 

disab. 
Mathews, John G., e. Dec. 23, 1863, trans, to 65th inf. 
McEathron, M.. e. Dec. 30, 1863, trans, to 65th inf. 
Mathews, S. R,, e. Feb. 12, 1864, trans, to 65th inf. 
Nunn, Thomas, e. Aug. 9, 1862. 
Phillips, Jas. M., e. Aug. 9, 1862, m. o. as corp. 
Playford, H. R., e. Feb. 8, 1864, trans, to 65th inf. 
Phillips, P. A., e. Feb. 13, 1865, trans, to 65th inf. 
Rees, Geo. W., e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Reber, Jacob A., e. Aug. 9, 1862, disd. Jan. 31, '63, to re-e. 
Rathbun, Parris, e. Aug. 9, 1862. 
Richardson, L., e. Dec. 19, 1863, trans, to 65th inf. 
Royer, Isaac, e. Jan. 29, 1864, trans, to 65th inf. 
Rea, Geo. W., e. Feb. 13, 1865, trans, to 65th inf. 
Rea, John W., e. Feb. 13, 1865, died April 13,1865. 
Shligel, Julius, e. Aug. 9, 1862. 
Smith, Thomas A., e. Aug. 9, 1862. 
Smith, John I., e. Aug. 9, 1862, died April 22, 1865. 
Selzhorn, H, e. Aug. 9, 1862. 
Siason, Wm., e. Aug. 9, 1862, sick at m. o. 
Smith, Robt. D., e. Aug. 9, 1862. 
Seabury, Jerome, e. Aug. 9, 1862, m. o. as corp. 
Stout, Thomas U.. e. Aug. 9, 1862. 
Shearer, Edw., e. Aug. 9, 1862, died Jan. 23, 1863. 



338 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



Simpson, John M., e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Skeels, A. S., e. Feb. 8, 1864, trans, to 65th inf. 

Sindliogc-r, Geo. W., e. Oct. 28, 1864, trans, to 65th inf. 

Tonilinson,Geo. H., e. Aug. 0, 1862, dis<l. April l,'63,disab. 

Train, Samuel S., e. Aug. 0, 1862, diad. Feb. 3, 1863, diaab. 

Vanalstine, D. W.,e. Aug. 9, 1862, sick at m. o. 

Verbee, Benj. E., e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Wales, Thomas, e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

West, Philip, e. Aug. 9, 1862, disd. Sept. 30, 1863, disab. 

West, Ezra, e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Werkheiser, Wni., e. Aug. 9, 1862, died Oct. 6, 1864. 

Werkheiser, E., e. Aug. 2, 1862, diad. Aug. 5, 1865, disab. 

Walter, A. B., e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Wyckoff, E., e. Aug. 9, 1862, died April 14, 1863. 

Wf stcott, John, e. Feb. 3, 1864. trans, to 65th inf. 



NINETY-THIRD INFANTRY. 

The Ninety-third Infantry, Illinois Volun- 
teers, was organized at Chicago, 111., in Sep- 
tember, 1862, by Col. Holden Putnam, and 
mustered in October 13, 998 strong. Was 
ordered to Memphis, Tenn., November 9, and, 
arriving on the 14th, moved with Gen. Grant's 
army, in the Northern Mississippi campaign, 
to Yocona Creek, and thence, via Lumpkin's 
Mills, to Memphis, arriving December 30. 
Marched again, immediately, to La Fayette, 
Tenn., and returned to Ridgew:»y, where the 
regiment remained during January and Febru- 
ary, 1863. Embarked for Lake Providence, 
March 3, and from there moved to Helena on 
the 10th. From there, moved down the river 
on the Yazoo Pass expedition. Entered Moon 
Lake on the 22d, and landed near Greenwood. 
After reconnoitering the enemy's position, re- 
embarked and returned to Helena. April 13, 
moved to Milliken's Bend, and on the 25th, 
commenced the Vicksburg campaign. Marched, 
via Bruinsburg, Port Gibson, Raymond and 
Clinton, and arrived at Jackson, May 14. The 
Ninety-third was first under fire here. Par- 
ticipated in the advance, losing three killed 
and four wounded. Remained at Jackson until 
the 15th, and then moved toward Vicksburg. 
On the 16th, was engaged in the battle of 
Champion Hills. The Ninety-third was in the 
Third Brigade, Seventh Division, Seventeenth 
Army Corps. At 2 P. M., Brig. Gen. Hovey's 
Division being severely pressed, the brigade 
was ordered forward and placed on the extreme 
left. After twenty minutes' fighting, it was 
flanked on the left, and, retiring steadily, 
changed front to the left. Being again flanked, 
it again retired, and in this position held its 
ground against a most furious attack, after 
which the enemy retreated to Black River 
Bridge. The loss of the regiment was one offi- 
cer and thirty-seven men killed, six officers 
and one hundred and seven men wounded, and 
one officer and ten men missing. On the 17th, 
again moved toward Vicksburg. At noon of 
the 19th, came on the enemy's line, about three 
miles from the city. May 22, was engaged in 
the assault on the enemy's works, on the left 
of Fort Fisher, losing ten or twelve men killed 
and wounded. In the afternoon, was ordered 
to re-enforce Gen. McClernand's command, 
near the railroad. At 4 o'clock P. M., charged 
the enemy. Loss in this charge, five enlisted 
men killed, and one officer and forty-nine en- 
listed men wounded. June 22, moved to the 



rear, and on July 4, was stationed at McCali's 
plantation. July 13, 1863, started for Jackson. 
Arrived on the 15th. and immediately moved 
to Vicksburg arriving on the 25th. September 
12, moved to Helena, Ark., and on the 30th, 
to Memphis. Moved to Glendale, October 3. 
Marched to Burnsville, Miss.. October 8. On 
the 19th, marched toward Chattanooga, via 
Iuka, Florence, Ala., Winchester, Tenn., and 
Bridgeport, Ala., arriving November 19. No- 
vember 24, the regiment crossed the Tennessee 
River, and threw up a tete de pont, occupying 
the works until the ponton bridge was built. 
November 25, was heavily engaged at Mission 
Ridge, losing Col. Holden Putnam and nineteen 
men killed one officer and forty-four enlisted 
men wounded, and two officers and twenty-five 
men missing. Pursued the enemy, November 
26 and 27, to Grayson, and returned to Chatta- 
nooga. Moved toward Bridgeport, Ala., De- 
cember 3. On the 22d, moved to Larkinsville, 
Ala., and January 17th, 1864, to Huntsville. 
February 12, participated in the reconnaissance 
to Dalton. On the 24th and 25th, lay in line 
of battle all day, near Dalton. Returned to 
Huntsville, March 6. Moved by rail to Deca- 
tur, Ala., and, June 14, marched, via Huntsville 
and Larkinsville, to Stephenson, Ala., arriving 
on the 25th. On the 27th, moved by rail to 
Chattanooga, and 28th, to Kingston. One mile 
north of Dalton, the train collided with an up- 
train, and one officer and thirty men were 
wounded. July 2, moved to Etowah to guard 
crossings until the 11th, when the regiment re- 
turned to Kingston. August 2 and 3, marched 
to Allatoona. On the evening of the 15th, 
moved by rail to Resaca, and on the 17th, 
marched to Spring Place ; but, Wheeler's cav- 
alry having retreated, the command returned 
to Resaca and to Allatoona. On September 3, 
ten men were captured while out foraging. On 
October 5, the Ninety-third was a part of the 
force, 2,100 strong, which so signally defeated 
Gen. French's rebel division of 7,000 men. At 
1 o'clock A. M., the picket firing commenced. 
At 7 A. M., the artillery on both sides opened, 
and at 9 A. M., the enemy made his first charge, 
and after desperate fighting succeeded in press- 
ing the Union forces back, from the outer line 
of works, into the forts. Until 3 P. M., the 
battle raged with intense fury, when the enemy 
hastily withdrew in the direction of Dallas. 
The Ninety-third lost twenty-one killed, three 
officers and forty-nine men wounded, and ten 
missing. November 12, 1864, the regiment 
started on "the inarch to the sea," and marched, 
via Atlanta, McDonough, Jackson, Planter's 
Factory, Hillsboro, Clinton, Gordon, Irwinton, 
Summerville and Eden, reaching the enemy's 
lines around Savannah, December 10. On the 
11th, skirmished with the enemy at Ogeechee 
Canal, losing one killed and two wounded. On 
the 12th, moved to "Station 1" on the Gulf 
Railroad, and remained till the 21st, when it 
marched into the city, and there remained until 
January 19, 1865. Commenced the campaign 
of the Carolinas on January 19. Marched 
across the Savannah River, and two miles into 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



339 



the swamp. On the 20th, returned to Savan- 
nah, and on the 23d, embarked for Beaufort. S. 
C. Landed on the 24th, and on the 29th, 
marched northward, via Mcl'hersonville, Hick- 
ory Hill, Owens' Cross Roads. Baneburg, Gra- 
ham (destroying one and a half miles of rail- 
road), Binnaker's Bridge, Orangeburg, Bates' 
Ferry, on the Congaree (where skirmished with 
the enemy, February 15), and to Columbia, 
arriving on the 17th. While here, one man 
was mortally wounded by the accidental explo- 
sion of shells. From Columbia, marched, via 
Muddy Springs, Peay's Ferry on the Wateree, 
Liberty Hill, West's Corner (here had one man 
wounded by enemy's cavalry), to Cheraw, S. C ; 
thence, via Laurel Hill. Big Raft Swamp, Fay- 
etteville, Jackson's Cross Roads, Cox's Bridge 
and Bentonville, arriving at Goldsboro, March 
24. April 10, moved to Raleigh, arriving on 
the 14th. After the surrender of Johnston's 
army, marched, via Petersburg and Richmond, 
Va., to Washington City. Participated in the 
grand review May 24, and on the 31st, moved 
to Louisville, Ky. June 23, 1865, was mustered 
out of service, and on the 25th, arrived at Chi- 
cago, 111. Received final payment and dis- 
charge, July 7, 1865. During two years and 
seven months' service, the casualties in battle of 
the Ninety-third were 446, and one officer and 
thirty-one men accidentally wounded. The 
regiment has marched 2,554 miles, traveled by 
water 2,296 miles, and by railroad 1,237 miles. 
Total, 6,087 miles. 

Col. Holden Putnam, com. Oct. 13, 1862, kid. Nov. 25, 1863. 
Adjt. Henry G. Hicks, com. Nov. 15, 1862, hon. disd. Feb. 
26, 1864. 

Company D. 

Capt. Charles F. Taggart, com. Oct. 13, 1862, hon. disd. 

Jan. 10, 1865. 
Capt. George S. Kleckner, com. 2d lieut. Oct. 13, 18G2, 

prmtd. 1st lieut. Feb. 9, 1864, prnitd. capt. April 11, 

1865. 
First Lieut. Alpheus P. Goddard, com. Oct. 13, 1862, res. 

Feb. 9, 1864. 
First Lieut. James W. Newcomer, e. as private Aug. 7, 

1862, prmtd. 1st lieut. June 6, 1865, m.o. as Q. M.Sergt. 
Sergt. Lansing Ells, e. July 28, 1862, disd. May 31, 1803, 

disab. 
Sergt. Edward P. Renolds, e. Aug. 7. 1862, died March 12, 

1863. 
Sergt. John B. Newcomer, e. Aug. 2, 1862, died June 21, 

1862, wds. 
Sergt. Benjamin E. Goddard, e. Aug. 12, 1862, trans, to 

40th inf. 
Corp. Samuel Shriver, e. Aug. 6, 1S62, disd. Aug. 11, 1865, 

disab. 
Corp. James Hickey, e. Aug. 5, 1862, kid. May 16, 1803. 
Corp. George Lills, e. Aug. 0. 1862, died May 22. 1803. 
Corp. John Rima, e. Aug. 5, 1862, kid. Nov. 25, 1863. 
Corp. Walker Templeton, e. Aug. 15, 1862. 
Musician M. W. Lyman, e. Aug. 7, 1862, trans, to brigade 

band. 
Musician George B. Turneaure, e. Aug. 6, 1862, prmtd. 

principal musician. 
Wagoner Silas Andrews, e. Aug. 7, 1862, disd. Aug. 5, 1863, 

disab. 
Andrews, Charles J., e. Aug. 6, 1862, trans, to 40th inf. 
Brandt, Benjamin F., e. Aug. 5, 1862. 
Brillhart, William F., e. Aug. 9, 1862, trans, to inv. corps. 
Bender, Charles, e. Aug. 9, 1862, died Feb. 27, 1863. 
Brown, M. S., e. Aug. 6, 1862, disd. Aug. 5, 1803, disab. 
Brewer, E. B., e. Aug. 6, 1802, died April 17, 1863. 
Brillhart, Henry, e. Aug. 9, 1802, disd. Aug. 5, 1863, disab. 
Bergstresser, James, e. Aug. 9, 1862, m. o. as corp. 
Birtlin, Balser, e. Aug, 5, 1862. 
Bender, Chris, e. Aug. 14, 1862, trans, to V. R. C. 
Bogenreif, David, e. Aug. 7, 1S62, disd. Feb. 1, 1864, disab. 
Cornville, M. L., e. Aug. 7, 1862, disd. May 25, 1804, disab. 



Davis, George, e. Aug. 5, 1862. 

Devore, Samuel F., e. Aug. 8, 1862, died July 27, 1803. 

Erwin, Rudy, e. Aug. 10, 1862, kid. May 16, 1863. 

Frey, George W., e. Aug. 5, 1862. 

Fry, Isaac, e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Garrett, James, e. Oct. 3, 1864, trans. 

Giddings, Calvin, e. Aug. 5, 1862. 

Goodwill, Frederick, e. July 26, 1862, disd. Jan. 10, 1863, 

disab. 
Gable, Jacob, e. Aug. 7, 1862. 
Hopkins, H. L., e. Aug. 7, 1862. 
Hahn, Isaac, e. Aug. 7, 1862. 
Hahn, Jacob, e. Aug. 7.1802. 
High, H. W., e. Aug. lo, 1862. 
Hood, E. E., e. Aug. 14, 1862, disd., term expired. 
Jewell, John G, e. Aug. 13, 1862, died July 12, 1863. 
Kiester, David, e. Aug. 9, 1862, sick at m. o. 
Klotz, John, e. Oct. 3, 1864, trans. 
Kaufman, Adam E., e. Aug. 14, 1862, sick at m. o. 
Knedle, Samuel, e. Aug. 6, 1862, died Sept. 1, 1863. 
Kleuhner, Geo. W., e. Aug. 5, 1862, died Oct. 13, 1864. 
Lansing, Ezra, e. Aug. 8, 1S62, disd. for disab. 
Liscomb, N., e. Aug. 10, 1862, died Aug. 3, 1863. 
Lenhart, George C, e. Aug. 14, 1862, disd. Jan. 5, 1863, 

disab. 
Lusk, George F., e. Aug. 5, 1862, trans to the 40th inf. 
LuBk, Franklin. 

Lahr, Paul, Aug. 7, 1S62, m. o. as corp. 
Metz, Henry, e. Aug. 9, 1862, disd. Feb. 23, 1863, disab. 
McKibben, Foster D., e. Aug. 7, 1862. 
McKibben, R., e. Aug. 15, 1802, m. o. as sergt. 
Plush, Thomas, e. Aug. 6, 1802, sick at m. o. 
Patton, T. M. C, e. Aug. 5, 1862, m. o. as corp. 
Phillips, Thomas, e. Aug. 7, 1802, kid. May 16, 1863. 
Pittinger, William, e. Aug. 15, 1862. 
Robert, Cyrus A., e. Aug. 5, 1862, disd. June 8, 1865, disab. 
Reeder, Peter, Oct. 3, 1804, trans. 
Rotzler, John, e. Aug. 6, 1862, trans, to brigade band. 
Solace, C. S., e. Aug. 5, 1862, disd. Feb. 5, 1865, disab. 
Sprague, Carson, e. Aug. 9, 1862, disd. Aug. 15, '63, disab. 
Shearer, Peter, e. Aug. 5, 1862. 
Shearer, David, e. Aug. 5, 1862, died April 18, 1865. 
Shearer, Andrew, e. Aug. 7, 1862, absent at m. o. 
Shippey, Hiram, e. Aug. 10, 1862, sick at m. o. 
Templeton, D. H, e. Aug. 15, 1862, died Oct. 30, 1862. 
Thomas, George, e. Aug. 9, 1862, captd. at Champion Hills. 
Unaugust, Franklin, e. Aug 6, 1862. 
Whitehorn, John, e. July 28, '62, disd. March 7, '65, disab. 
Washburn, C, e. Aug. 11, 1862. 
Ward, Wm. B., e. Aug. 14, 1862, died June 29, 1863. 
White, John D., e. Aug. 8, 1862, disd. May 28, 1864, disab. 
Tordy, Chris, e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Young, John, e. Aug. 1, 1862, m. o. March 11, 1863. 
Young, Henry, e. Aug. 5, 1862. 
Young, Simon, e. Aug. 5, 1862. 

Company C. 

Capt. Jos. P. Reel, com. Oct. 13, 1862, res. July 20, 1864. 
Capt. Samuel M. Daughenbaugh, e. as sergt. Aug. 11,1862, 

prmtd. 2d lieut. Jan. 24, 1864, prmtd. 1st lieut. Jan. 5, 

1864, prmtd capt. July 20, 1864. 
First Lieut. George W. Hartsough, com. Oct. 13, 1862, res. 

Jan. 24, 1863. 
First Lieut. Jeremiah J. Piersol, com. 2d lieut. Oct. 13, 

1862, prmtd 1st lieut. Jan 24, 1863, hon. disd. Jan. 5. 

1864. 
First Lieut. George L. Pi'-rsol, e. as private, Aug. 11, 

1862, prmtd. 1st lieut. July 20, 1864. 
Sergt. Abnei H. Howe, e. Aug. 10, 1862. 
Sergt. Elias Castenbader, e. Aug. 11, 1862. 
Sergt. Hugh Moser, e. Aug. 2, 1S62, absent at m. o. 
Sergt. Charles Yunt, e. Aug. 14, 1862. 
Corp. Daniel I. Cobb, e. Aug. 12, 1862, disd. Aug. 11. 1863, 

disab. 
Corp. N. Wertman, e. Aug. 6, 1862, disd. Aug. 16, '63, wd. 
Corp. Daniel Keiser, e. Aug. 11, 1802. 
Corp. Henry Shoemaker, e. Aug. 11, 1862. 
Corp. John B. Bollman, e. Aug. 2, 1862, kid. at Champion 

Hills. 
Corp. D. W. Jones. 
Corp. Luther Hays. 
Corp. O. M. Broughter. 

Musician Wm. Ware, e. Aug. 12, '62, trans, to inv. corps. 
Musician Edward Owen, e. Aug. 6, 1862, disd, March 2. 

1863. 
Wag. John Templeton, e. Aug. 4, 1862, died Feb. 25, 1865, 

wd. 
Addams, Alvin, e. Aug. 11, 1802, died Mav 24, 1803. wd. 
Andre, John J., e. Aug. 14, 1862. 
Brown, John, e. Aug. 11, 1862, 



340 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



Bordner, D. M., e. Aug. 14, 1862, 

Bennethine, John G., e. Aug. 11, 1862. 

Cade Levi, e. Aug. 7, 1862. 

Clams, Jos., e. Aug. 11, 1862. 

Carl, H. C, e. Aug. 14, 1862, died Oct. 22, 1864, wd. 

Collier, Wm. H., e. Aug. 15, 1862. died March 3o, 1864. 

Diemar, Ames, e. Aug. 15, 1862, disd. Sept. 11, 1863, disab. 

Dinges, Adam K., e. Aug. 12, 1862. 

Duhart, Henry, e. Aug. 14, 1862. 

Danber, Daniel, e. Aug. 22, 1862. 

Eastman, H. C, e. Aug. 14, 1862. 

Erb, Isaac, e. Aug. 11, 1862, kid. May 16, 1863. 

Erb, Henry, e. Aug. 14, 1862. 

Eisenhour, Wm. H., Aug. 11, 1862, died May 19, 1863, wd. 

Frank, Wm., e. Aug. 9, 1862, sick at m. o. 

Forney, David, e. Aug. 14, 1862, died June 27, 1864. 

Fogel, Robert, e. Aug. 14, 1862, died Dec. 26, 1862. 

Fogel, Jos. W., Aug. 14, 1862. 

Folgate Thomas, e. Aug. 11, 1862. 

Graham, George W., e. Aug. 11, 1862. 

Garman, J. P., e. Oct. 14, 1862. 

Garman, Wm., e. Oct. 15, 1864. 

Grane Jos. F., e. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Greenwalt Benj., e. Aug. 11, 1862, sick at m. o. 

Grissinger, F. B., Aug. 12, 1862. 

Granzo, Aug., e. Aug. 11, 1862, sick at m. o. 

Hockman, Henry, e. Aug. 11, 1862. 

Humphrey, Charles, e. Aug. 11, 1862. 

Humphrey, John M., e. Aug. 11, 1863. 

Hulbert, Lyman e. Aug. 10, 1862, kid. Oct. 5, 1864. 

Helm, Tobias, e. Aug. 14, 1862, died May 1, 1863. 

Hartsell, Samuel, e. Aug. 20, 1862. 

Haas, W. G., e. Aug. 19, 1862, kid. May 23, 1865. 

Ilgen, Dan'l G., e. Aug. 11, 1862. 

Ilgen, David M., e. Aug. 11,1862. 

Kostenbader, S. S., e. Aug. 11, 1862. 

Kahli, Henry, e. Aug. 11,1862. 

Kryder, John J., e. Aug. 14, 1862, disd. Feb. 22, 1864, wds. 

Kahli, Emanuel, e. Aug. 11, '62, disd. March 28,'65, disab. 

Klapp, Chas. B., e. Aug. 14, 1862. 

Knock, Jas. E., e. Aug. 7, 1862. 

Krise, Wm., e. Aug. 14, 1862, died Sept. 27, 1863. 

Logan, Jas. N., e. Aug. 14, 1862. 

Logan, S. W. 

Lott, Geo. W., e. Aug. 14, 1862, disd. March 31, '65, disab. 

Law, Henrv, e. Aug. 14, 18G2, died May 29, 1864. 

Lattig, Geo" M., e. Aug. 14, 1862. 

Leibe, D., e. Aug. 14, 1862. 

Myers, Reuben, e. Aug. 15, 1862. 

Matteo, Moses, e. Aug. 14, 1862, trans, to inv. corps. 

McHolt, Oliver, e. Aug. 11, 1862, died Nov. 30, 1863. 

Morse, Jefferson, e. Aug. 12, 1862. 

McConnell, John P., e. Aug. 12, 1862, died Oct. 4, 1863. 

Nickles, Lester, e. Aug. 11,1862. 

Nickles, A. M.,e. Aug. 11, 1862, disd. April 2, 1863, disab. 

Nickles, Geo W.,e. Aug. 14, 1862, trans, to inv. corps. 

Reiser, Conrad, e. Aug. 11. 1862, died March 28, 1863. 

Rosweiler, Henry, e. Aug. 14, 1862, kid. May 16, 1863. 

Reubendall, R. R., e. Aug. 11, 1862, trans, to inv. corps. 

Sindlinger, John W., e. Aug. 12, 1862, dis. July 23, 1863, 
disab. 

Stewart, Jas. C, e. Aug. 11, 1862. 

Shockley, Benj., e. Aug. 12, 1862, died May 19, 1863. 

St. John, Thomas K, e. Aug. 14, 1862, died Oct. 22, 1862. 

Seigley, D. Y., e. Aug. 15, 1862, trans, to inv. corps. 

Smith, Sanford, e. Aug. 15, 1S62, sick at m. o. 

Sands, Wm., e. Aug. 15, 1862. 

Shekler, Levi, e. Aug. 10, 1862. 

Vantilburg, T., e. Aug. 14, 1862, died Aug. 14, 1862. 

Vantilburg, N. H., e. Aug. 14, 1862, disd. Feb. 15, '63, disab. 

Werkheiser, John H , e. Aug. 14, 1862. 

Wolf, Daniel, e. Aug. 10, 1862. kid. May 16, 1863. 

Wetzel, Peter, e. Aug. 11, 1862. 

Wilson, Wm. J., e. Aug. 12, 18C2,died May 25, 1863, wds. 

Wertman, Jos., e. Aug. 12, 1862. 

Wickwire, F. M., e. Aug. 12, 1862, died Aug. 17, 1863. 

Wagner, J. R., Aug. 12, 1861, m. o. as corp. 

Wagner, Joel, e. Aug. 14, 1862, died Nov. 29, 1863, wds. 

Wardlow, Robt., e. Aug. 21, 1862, dis. for wds. 

Zerle, Geo., e. Aug. 14, 1862, trans, to V. R. C. 

Zerle,Wm., e. Aug. 10, 1862. 

Youndt, Albert, e. Dec. 29, 1863, trans, to 40th inf. 

THE ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY- 
SECOND INFANTRY. 

(One Hundred Days). 
The One Hundred and Forty-second Infantry 
Illinois Volunteers was organized at Freeport, 



111., by Col. Rollin V. Ankeney, as a battalion 
of eight companies, and ordered to Camp But- 
ler, Illinois, where two companies were added 
and the regiment mustered, June 18, 1864, for 
one hundred days. 

On June 21, the regiment moved for Mem- 
phis, via Cairo and the Mississippi River, and 
arrived on the 24th. On the 26th, moved to 
White's Station, eleven miles from Memphis, 
on the Memphis & Charleston Railroad, where 
it was assigned to guarding railroad. 

Mustered out of the United States service 
October 27, 1864, at Chicago. 

Col. Rollin V. Ankeney, com. June 18, 1864. 
Adjt. Albert W. Brewster, com. June 9, 1864. 
Sergt. Asa E. Shephard, com. June 18, 1864. 

Company A. 

First Lieut. Denison C. Frisbie, com. June 18, 1864. 

Sergt. John McEathron, e. May 1, 1864, m. o. as 1st sergt . 

Corp. Herbert W. Allen, e. May 2, 1864, m. o. as sergt. 

Corp. Dennis H. Reynolds, e. May 1, 1864. 

Corp. Lewis P. Clingman, e. May 10, 1864. 

Corp. Ira Peckard, e. May 4, 1864. 

Boyer, John, e. May 1, 1864. 

Baum, Samuel, e. June 1, 1864. 

Bailey, Horace, e. May 1, 1864. 

Barklow, Frederick, e. May 5, 1864. 

Biehl, Frank, e. June 16, 1864, died Sept. 11, 1864. 

Cosier, Amnion, May 16, 1864. 

Clingman, W. 

Draws, George, e. June 1, 1864. 

Hill, Eugene O., e. May 25, 1864. 

Ludeke, Charles, e. May 21, 1864, died Sept. 26, 1864. 

McGloughlin, Joseph, e. May 10, 1864. 

Williams, John, e. May 10, 1864. 

Company E. 

Second Lieut. James R. Baker, com. June 18, 1864. 

First Sergt. William Trude, e. May 1, 1864. 

Musician William H. Baker, e. May 10, 1864. 

Buisman, John, e. May 14, 1864, died Sept. 9, 1864. 

Cobie, John, e. May 12, 1864. 

Dean, Israel, e. May 30, 1864, died Sept. 12, 1864. 

Gifford, Henry. 

Heddens, Roelf, e. May 14, 1864. 

Higgins, Frank, e. May 28, 1864. 

Kohl, George, e. May 1, 1864. 

Lizer, Andrew, e. May 30, 1864. 

Long, David, e. May 2, 1864. 

Seibels, D. B., e. May 16, 1864, died Aug. 12, 1864. 

Turbett, Thomas M., e. May 25, 1864. 

Wepel, Bertus, e. May 14, 1864. 

Wepel, H., e. Aug. 14, 1864. 

Company F. 

Capt. Henry Burrell, com. June 18, 1864. 

First Lieut. Francis A. Darling, com. June 18, 1864. 

Second Lieut. Josiah D. Fye, com. Jan. 18, 1864. 

First. Sergt. Graham M. Woods, e. May 5, 1864. 

Sergt. George H. Tandy, e. May 5, 1864. 

Sergt. Dolphus Tyler, e. May 9, 1864. 

Sergt. Thomas M. Bradshaw, e. May 5, 1864. 

Corp. Charles F. Bulkley, e. May 6, 1864. 

Corp. Henry Brillhart, e. May 12, 1864. 

Corp. William Liebhart, e. May 12, 1864. 

Corp. Josiah F. May, e. May 9, 1864. 

Corp. George B. Stephens, e. May 5, 1864. 

Corp. Edward T. Johnson, e. May 5, 1864. 

Corp. Thomas C. Strunk, e. May 13, 1864. 

Corp. John L. French, e. May 12, 1864. 

Wagoner Daniel W. Jennings, e. May 24, 1864. 

Adair, George, e. May 25,1864, died Sept. 1, 1864. 

Ballinger, Aquilla, e. May 25, 1864. 

Brownley, H., e. May 6, 1864. 

Brown, George W., e. May 25, 1864. 

Buchanan, John H., e. May 9, 1864. 

Burrell, Daniel, e. May 5, 1864. 

Dilly, Jacob, e. May 11, 1864. 

Ells, William A., e. May 9, 1864. 

Eyre, John H., e. May 24, 1864. 

Freese, I. T., e. May 24, 1864. 

Frisbie, William D., e. May 9, 1864. 

Fuller, Lorenzo, e. May 9, 1864. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



341 



Galpin, William C, e. May 10, 1864. 

Gates, Norman, e. May 20, 1864. 

Getteg, Aaron, e. May 19, 1864. 

Goldin, John A., e. Mav 9, 1864. 

Hall, Archer, e. May 9, 1864. 

Hawkins, Wesley, e. May 29, 1864. 

Hazen, Gustavus E., e. May 9, 1864. 

Heinsler, Frederick, e. May 17, 1864, died Aug. 26, 1864. 

Hitchcock, F., e. May 23, 1864. 

Jones, August D., e. May 5, 1864. 

Kanawell, William, e. May 11, 1864. 

Kuley, William, e. May 11, 1864. 

Lapp, Isaac, e. May 24, 1864. 

Madden, William, e. May 5, 1864. 

Martin, William A., e. May 24, 1864. 

McAffe, Torrance, e. May 18, 1864. 

McLees, William, e. May 5, 1864. 

Morely, Robert, e. May 15, 1864. 

Murdaugh, Thomas, e. May 1, 1864, died Oct. 9, 1864. 

Nesbit, Alexander, e. May 31, 1864. 

Ochk, Alpha, e. May 10, 1864. 

Ochk, Omega, e. May 14, 1864. 

Otto Charles, e. May 17, 1864. 

Packard Eleroy, e. May 6 1864. 

Pender, Thomas, e. May 4, 1864. 

Raudecker, James C. e. May 9, 1864. 

Rippbarger, JohD, e. May 8, 1864. 

Shane, William, e. May 12, 1864. 

Sheldon, C. D., e. May 9, 1864. 

Stunk, Peter, May 16, 1864. 

Sterling, Robert, e. May 10, 1864. 

Sullivan, Patrick, e. May 11, 1864. 

Turneaure, Charles H., e. May 12, 1864. 

Thomas, William H., e. May 20, 1864. 

Townes, Edw., e. May 6, 1864. 

Vanalst, Martin, e. May 4, 1864. 

Wagner, William H., e. May 24. 1864. 

Wallace, William, e. May 13, 1864. 

Warner, A. J., e. May 14, 1864. 

Warner, C. F., e. May 12, 1864. 

Warner, John, e. May 28, 1864. 

White Wallace, e. May 10, 1864. 

Willson, Charles M., e. May 20, 1864. 

Winters, John C, e. May 14.1864. 

Winters, William, e. May 25, 1864. 

Toung, Thomas B., e. May 18, 1864. 

Zimmerman, H. 0., e. May 7, 1864. 

Company C. 

Sergt. John F. Whitley, e. June 1, 1864. 

Brownley, S., e. June 2, 1864. 

Bessinger, John, e. May 27, 1864. 

Barry, John, e. May 16, 1864. 

Davidson, Joseph, e. May 21, 1864. 

George, Lawson E., e. June 1, 1864. 

Kenneson, T. E., e. March 9, 1864. 

Kanrai, David, e. May 10, 1864. 

Mooney, Edw., e. June 1, 1864. 

McGlaughlin, James, e. May 10, 1864. 

Wood, Cyrus A., e. June 2, 1864, m. o. for re-enlistment. 

Wilson, Charles, e. May 16, 1864. 



THE ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY- 
SIXTH INFANTRY. 

(One Year.) 
The One Hundred and Forty-sixth Illinois 
Volunteers was organized at Camp Butler, Illi- 
nois, September 18, 1864, for one year, and 
Henry H. Dean appointed Colonel. Companies 
C and B were ordered to Brighton, 111.; Com- 
panies D and H to Quincy, 111 , and Company 
F to Jacksonville, 111., and were assigned to 
duty guarding drafted men and substitutes. 
The remaining companies were assigned to sim- 
ilar duty at Camp Butler, Illinois. On the 5th 
of July, 1865, the regiment was mustered out 
of service at Camp Butler, Illinois. 
Adjt. James P. Hodges, com. Oct. 10, 1864. 

Company E. 

Capt. John R. Jones, com. Sept. 19, 1864, res. April 7, '65- 
Capt. Russell A. Hays, com. 1st lieut. Sept. 19, 1864> 
prmtd. capt. May 10, 1865. 



Second Lieut. John L. Kamrar, com. Sept. 19, 1864, disd. 
March 9, 1865. 

Second Lieut. Lewis D. Brigham, e. as 1st sergt. Sept. 2, 
1864, prmtd. 2d lieut. May 10, 1865. 

Sergt. James Frost, e. Sept. 2, 1864, disd. 

Sergt. Samuel Hayes, e. Sept. 3, 1864. 

Sergt. David Schreiak, e. Sept. 3, 1864. 

Sergt. Ed. L. Bruce, e. Sept. 2, 1864. 

Corp. Jerome A. Butts, e. Sept. 2, 1864. 

Corp. Samuel Whitemeyer, e. Sept. 2, 1864. 

Corp. Stephen Clingman, e. Sept. 2, 1864. 

Corp. John Boyer, e. Sept. 2, 1864. 

Corp. Lewis Lawver, e. Sept. 2, 1864. 

Corp. Thomas McGhee, e. Sept. 2, 1864. 

Musician Edw. Owen, e. Sept 5, 1864. 

Wagoner, Andrew Harnish, e. Sept. 2, 1864. 

Andrews, Isaac F., e. Sept. 2, 1864. 

Auman, Edw., e. Sept. 3, 1864. 

Burd, Benjamin F., e. Sept. 3, 1864, m. o. as corp. 

Burd, George W., e. Sept. 2, 1864. 

Bogenreif, Samuel, e. Sept. 3, 1864. 

Briel, Reuben C, e. Sept. 5, 1864, disd. May 12, '65, disab. 

Bowen, Samuel, e. Sept. 5, 1864. 

Bortzfield, John, e. Sept. 5, 1864, died Dec. 13, 1864. 

Bollman, Georse, e. Sept. 2, 1864. 

Childs, Lewis C, e. Sept. 2, 1864. 

Cornville, M. L., e. Sept. 3, 1864, died Oct. 7, 1864. 

Clingman, H. C, e. Sept. 3, 1864. 

Foster, Robert, e. Sept. 3, 1864. 

Graham, E. W., e. Sept. 3, 1864. 

Haggart Sydney, e. Sept. 3, 1864. 

Hutchison, Samuel, e. Sept. 3, 1864. 

Ingraham, Orlin, e. Sept. 3, 1864. 

Keagan, Nicholas, e. Sept. 3, 1864. 

Kleckner, William, e. Sept. 2, 1864. 

Knoll, Thomas, e. Sept. 2, 1864. 

Kryder, William H, e. Sept. 2, 1864. 

Kuns, N., e.'Sept. 2, 1864. 

Kailey, George W., e. Sept. 2, 1864. 

Kenison, Thomas J., e. Sept. 3, 1864, disd. May 20, 1865, 
disab. 

Kearn, Richard, e. Sept. 2, 1864. 

Larkins, M., e. Sept. 3, 1864. 

Mendenhall, William A., e,Sept. 3, 1864. 

Murray, James S., e. Sept. 3, 1864, died Feb. 1, 1865. 

McDowell, E. R., e. Sept. 5, 1864, promtd. principal musi- 
cian. 

Patten, Lawrence, e. Sept. 5, 1864, disd. April 4,^1865, 
disab. 

Rath, A. B., e. Sept. 3,1864. 

Rees, John, e. Sept. 3, 1864. 

Springer, Nathan, e. Sept. 3, 1864, died Oct. 19, 1864. 

Schroeder, H., e. Sept. 3, 1864. 

Stoeger, Adam, e. Sept. 3, 1864. 

Stiles, R. A., e. Sept. 2, 1864. 

Sheckler, O. P., e. Sept. 5, 1864. 

Twogood, Daniel, e. Sept. 2, 1864. 

Vocht, John L., e. Sept. 5, 1864. 

Williams, F. E.. e. Sept. 2, 1864. 

Wells, Orson, e. Sept. 3, 1864. 

Teaman, Thomas J., e. Sept. 3, 1864. 

Yeager, Peter, e. Sept. 5, 1864. 

Targer, William A., e. Sept. 3, 1864. 



ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY-SEV- 
ENTH INFANTRY. 

(One Tear.) 

The One Hundred and Forty-seventh Infan- 
try, Illinois Volunteers, was organized at Camp 
Fry, Illinois, by Col. Hiram F. Sickles, and mus- 
tered in for one year, on the 18th and 19th of 
February, 1865. On the 21st of February, 
moved, via Louisville, Ky., to Nashville, 
Tenn., arriving on the 25th. On the 28th, 
moved to Chattanooga, and thence to Dalton, 
6a., Col. Sickles commanding post. On March 
13, went on an expedition to Mill Creek, on 
Cleveland road, and broke up a nest of guer- 
rillas. On the 20th, under command of Maj. 
Bush, went on an expedition to Spring Place. 
March 15, the regiment was assigned to First 
Brigade, Second Division, Army of the Cum- 



342 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



berland, Brig. Gen. II. M. Judah commanding. 
On March 28, went on an expedition to Ring- 
gold. On April 23, moved to Pullen's Ferry, 
on Coosawatchie River, and had several skir- 
mishes with the enemy, killing Maj. Edmeston, 
their commander, and several officers and men. 
On May 2, the regiment moved to Resaca, Ga., 
and were engaged in repairing the railroad. 
On May 12, Wofford, commanding rebel forces 
in Northern Georgia, surrendered his forces to 
Gen. Judah. May. 14, Col. Sickles took com- 
mand of the brigade. Marched to Calhoun, 
June 26, and July 27, moved to Marietta. 
From there, ordered to Macon, Ga., and to 
Albany, Ga., arriving July 31. October 16, 
brigade organization dissolved. October 28, 
ordered to Hawkinsville, Ga. November 25, 
the regiment was ordered to Savannah, Ga., via 
Macon, Atlanta and Augusta, where it remained 
December 31, 1865. Mustered out January 
20, 1866, at Savannah, Ga., and ordered to 
Springfield, 111., where it received final pay 
and discharge. 

Company E. 

Oapt. Francis A. Darling, com. Feb. 18, 1865. 

First Lieut. Denison C. Frisbie, com. Feb. 18, 1865, res. 

Sept. 2, 1865. 
First Lieut. Jacob M. Martin, com. 2d lieut. Feb. 18, 1865, 

prmtd. 1st lieut. Oct. 4, 1865. 
Second Lieut. Daniel J. Keeley, e. as 1st sergt. Feb. 9, 

1865, prmtd. 2d lieut. Oct. 4, 1865. 
Sergt. Richard M. Hockey, e. Feb. 10, 1865, m. o. as 1st 

sergt. 
Sergt. John J. Thomas, e. Feb. 6, 1865. 
Sergt. C. B. White, e. Feb. 4, 1865, dis. Dec. 16, 1865, disab. 
Sergt. Jonathan Small, e. Feb. 7, 1865. 
Corp. N. M. Ferguson, e. Feb. 1(J, 1865. 
Corp. Peter Slear, e. Feb. 4, 1865. 
Corp. John L. Rockey, e. Feb. 10, 1865. 
Corp. Henry Phelps, e. Feb. 6, 1865. 
Corp. A. W. Kamp, e. Feb. 8, 1865. 
Corp. Alfred F. Miller, e. Feb. 6, 1865. 
Corp. Charles Wilson, e. Feb. 9, 1865. 
Musician William H. Baker, e. Feb. 7, 1865. 
Wagoner D. W. Jennings, e. Feb. 3, 1865. 
Allen, John S., e. Feb. 4, 1865. 
Allen, T. M., e. Feb. 8, 1865. 
Boyer, Isaac, e. Feb. 17, 1865. 
Buss, Thankful, e. Feb. 15, 1865. 
Buss, Isaac, e. Feb. 13, 1865. 
Bnffington, C. H., e. Feb. 13, 1865. 
Beegle, A. H., e. Feb. 11, 1865, m. o. Sept. 21, 1865. 
Baker, Lewis, e. Feb. 9, 1865. 
Boyer, Joseph L., e. Feb. 8, 1865. 
Baniger, Peter, e. Feb. 9, 1S65. 
Burnham, N. S., e. Feb. 4, 1865. 
Bangs, M., e. Feb. 6, 1 865. 
Bobb, Cyrus, e. Feb. lo, 1865. 
Blake, William, e. Feb. 6, 1865. 
Bolinger, D., e. Feb. 8, 1865. 
Carpenter, H„ e. Feb. 9, 1865. 
Cox, Abel, e. Feb. 6, 1865. 
Caffee, James L., e. Feb. 6, 1865. 
Carter, L. H., e. Feb. 4, 1865. 
Cooper, B. G., e. Feb. 8, 1864. 
Carpenter, D., e. Feb. 9, 1864. 
Davenport, Lucius, e. Feb. 7, 1864. 
Durfee, R. S. e. Feb. 6, 1864. 
Darling, Francis S. 
Frisbie, D. C. 

Farrell, Charles, e. Feb. 17,1864, disd. Aug. 30, 1865, disab. 
Folgate, Daniel, e. Feb. 10, 1864, disd. Dec. 26, 1865, disab. 
French, George, e. Feb. 9, 1864. 
Frank, John W., e. Feb. 7, 1864. 
Fisher, George, e. Feb. 6, 1864. 
Fischer, Charles, e. Feb. 6, 1864. 
Flickinger, Wm., e. Aug. 10, 1864. 
Foster, Fred, e. Feb. 8, 1864. 
Gall.raith, Benj., e. Feb. 17, 1864. 
Gearry, John, e. Feb. 4, 1864. 
Hallensleben, H. W., e. Feb. 4, 1864. 
Harwood, Wm. N., e. Feb. 6, 1864, died Aug. 5, 1865. 



Hick, H. V., e. Feb. 4, 1864 

Harris, Charles B., e. Feb. 4, 1864. 

Inman, John, e. Feb. 17. 1864. 

Kibner, Wm., e. Feb. 4, 1S64. 

Keyser, John E., e. Feb. 6, 1864. 

Kelly, John, e. Feb. 10, 1864, died May 2, 1865. 

Kahl, Thomas J., e. Feb. 7, 1864. 

Lims, Jos., e. Feb. 10, 1864. 

Lashell, H. F., e. Feb. 6, 1864. 

Leigh, Wm. H., e. Feb. 9, 1864. 

Lower, Solomon, e. Feb. 15, 1864. 

McLain, Isaac, e. Feb. 9, 1864. 

Moore, John T.. e. Feb. 10, 1864. 

Price, David, e. Feb. 4, 1S64. 

Patterson, Arthur, e. Feb. 8, 1864. 

Rhoades, I. P., e. Feb. 17, 1864. 

Reed, Hugh, e. Feb. 6, 1864. 

Smith, Charles A., e. Feb. 7, 1864. 

Stickney, H. J., e. Feb. 6, 1864. 

Sisson, James R., e. Feb. 8, 1864. 

Snyder, John S., e. Feb. 8, 1864. 

Small, Samuel, e. Feb. 8, 1864. 

Taylor, Andrew, e. Feb. 17, 1864. 

Van Epps, James W., e. Feb. 7,1864. 

Wood, Wm. H., e. Feb. 4, 1864. 



SEVENTH CAVALRY. 

Lieut. Col. Henry C. Forbes, com. 1st lieut. Co. B. Aug. 
11, 1861, prmtd. capt. Nov. 18, 1861, prmtd. maj. Feb. 
10, 1863, prmtd. lieut. col. March 1, 1865. 

Company B. 

Capt. Henry C. Forbes. 

Capt. William McCausland, e. as (?) sergt. Sept. 5, 1861, 

prmtd. 1st lieut. Nov. 18, 1861, prmtd. capt, Feb. 10, 

1863, died Dec. 25, 1864. 
Capt. Stephen A. Forbes, e. as (?) private Sept. 5, 1861, 

prmtd. 2d lieut. Feb. 10, 1863, prmtd. capt. March 28, 

1865. 
First Sergt. Josiah T. Noyes, e. Sept. 5, 1861, prmtd. bat. 

Q. M. 
Addler, Charles, e. Sept. 5, 1861, disd. Oct. 23, 1864. 
Barnes, George H., e. Sept. 5, 1861, died June 15, 1862. 
Clark, John W., e. March 4, 1865, m. o. Nov. 4, 1865. 
Combs, H. D., e. Sept. 5, 1861, m. o. April 21, 1865. 
Cuff, Thomas, e. Feb. 10, 1864. 

Davis, T. H., e. Sept. 5,1861, m. o. Oct. 15, 1864 as corp. 
Goddard, S. N., e. Sept. 5, 1861, disd. April 9, 1862, disab 
Hill, Thomas, e. Sept. 5, 1861, died Nov. 15, 1863. 
Jenkins, George I., e. Sept. 5, 1861, disd. April 25, 1863, 

disab. 
McCausland, S. A., e. Sept. 5, 1861, m. o. Oct. 15, 1864. 
Myers, Charles, e. Sept. 5, 1861, vet. Feb. 10, 1864, m. 

Nov. 4, 1865. 
Noyes, Lucius A., e. Sept. 5, 1861, disd. Oct. 28, 1862, 

1st sergt. 

(Unassigned.) 

Kleckner, Aaron, e. Jan. 25, 1865. 

Long, Casper, e. Oct. 11, 1864, disd. May 23, 1865. 

Massler, David D., e. March 2, 1865. 

Nolan, Thomas, e. Feb. 20, 1865. 

Sherman, Leonard. 



EIGHTH CAVALRY. 
Company C. 

Sergt. Chalmers Ingersoll, e. Sept. 14, 1861, vet. 
Coppersmith, A. e. Sep. 14, 1861, kid. in action Sept. 

1863. 
Chambers, James S., e. Sept. 14, 1861, prmtd. regt. comsy 

sergt. 
Daniel, Joseph, e. Sept. 14, 1861, vet. 
Diffenbaugh, David, e. Sept 14, 1861, kid. July 1, 1863. 
Hollenbeck, A., e. Sept. 14, 1861, vet. Jan. 1, 1864, m. 

June 19, 1865. 
Langdon, D. L., e. Sept. 14, 1861, vet. Jan. 1, 1864, trans. 

to Co. K., m. o.Jul v 17, 1865. 
Miller, S. H., e. Sept. 14, 1861, m. o. Sept. 28, 1864. 

Company I. 

High, Samuel, e. Sept. 30, 1864, m. o. July 17, 1865. 

Company K. 

Langdon, Dauid. 

Margritz, George O., e. Oct. 3, 1864, m. o. July 17, 1865. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



343 



Company M. 

Woodcock, D. E., e. Dec. 5, 1863, m. o. July 17. 1865. 

TWELFTH CAVALRY. 

(Uuassigned.) 
Brooks, Ii. H., e. Jan. 5, 1864. 
Bronauui, John H., e. Dec. 11, 1863. 
Calvin. Francis M., e. Jan. 5, 1864. 
Comstock, George R., e. Dec. 17, 1863. 
Erlewine, Samuel, e. Dec. 22, 1863. 
Fitzpatrick, William, e. Dec. 31, 1863. 
Fuller, Eli C, Jan. 5, 1864. 
Green, Charles, e. Jan. 5, 1864. 
Gardner, Ed, e. Dec. 31, 1863. 
Giltner, R. D., e. Dec. 24, 1863. 
Hyde, D., e. Jan. 15, 1864. 
Martzall, S., e. Jan. 5, 1864. 
McLaughlin, R., e. Jan. 15, 1864. 
McGill, William, e. Dec. 31, 1863. 
Mullarkey, John, e. Dec. 31, 1863. 
Peterson, John, e. Dec. 11, 1863. 
Ryan, Henry, e. Dec. 24, 1863. 
Shaffer, George J., e. Dec. 11, 1863. 



THIRTEENTH CAVALRY. 
Company E. 

Gardner, Brayton, e. Oct. 7, 1861, disd. in 1862. 
Smallwood, Jr., Charles, e. Sept. 25, 1861. 

Company I. 

High, Henry A., e. Dec. 21, 1863, died Oct. 13,1864. 

Johnson, R. W. 

Kleckner, H. C, e. Dec. 21, 1863, m. o. Aug 31, 1865. 

Kleckner, J. M. 

Lamb, 0. F., e. March 17, 1864. 

Lamb, J. D. 

Lamb, D. C. 

Miller, H. G., e. Dec. 21, 1863, disd. June 13, 1865. 

Smith, John G., e. Dec. 21, 1S63, sick at m. o. 

Shrove, Daniel, e. Dec. 21, 1863, sick at m. o. 

Sindlingr, John, e. Jan. 29, 1864, died July 8, 1864. 

Sheldon, 0. D., e. Feb. 2, 1864. 

Studebaker, Henry. 

Strange, W. 



FOURTEENTH CAVALRY. 
Company I. 

Capt. Francis M. Hagaman, com. Jan. 7, 1863, res. May 25, 

1864. 
Capt. Francis Boeke, com. 1st lieut. Jan. 7, 1863, prmtd. 

capt'. May 25, 1864. 
First lieut. Wm. H. Puckett, e. as private Oct. 14, 1862, 

prmtd. 2d lieut. Oct. 19, 1864, prmtd. 1st lieut. March 

28, 1865. 
Addis, Mattenly, e. Aug. 6, 1S62, disd. Oct. 3, 1864, disab. 
Allen, Nelson, e. Oct. 22, 1862. 
Bardin, John, e. Oct. 4, 1862, m. o. July 13, 1865. 
Butterfield, Wm. D., e. Nov. 4, 1862, disd. July 21, 1863. 
Brininger, B., e. Dec. 1, 1862, missing in action. 
Clare, David S., e. Oct. 14, '62, m. o. July 31, '65, as sergt. 
Clair, Wm., e. Oct. 4, 1862, m. o. July 31, 1865. 
Chapin, K. W., e. Nov. 18, 1862, missing in action. 
Donahoo, Wm. J., e. Feb. 18, 1864, m. o. July 31, 1865. 
Donahoo, Robert, e. March 31, 1864, m. o. July 31, 1865. 
Eby, Richard R., e. Oct. 20, 1862, m. o. July 31, 1865. 
Elliott, D. M., e. Nov. 7, 1862, died Dec. 8, 1863. 
Fouke, R. R., e. Jan. 16. 1863, m. o. July 31, 1865. 
Gogan, John, e. Oct. 18, 1862, missing in action. 
Gregsby, James M., e. Nov. 5, 1862,. 
Gaudy, Alex. M., e. Nov. 10, 1862, died Oct. 9, 1864. 
Glass, Henry, e. Nov. 25, 1862, m. o. July 31, 1865. 
Ginther, John, e. Nov. 22, 1862, m. o. June 21, 1865. 
Humphrey, A., e. Sept. 27, 1862, trans, to Co. E. 
Haggart, Charles, e. Nov. 5, 1862, m. o. July 31, 1865. 
Hollenbeck, H. W., e. Oct. 1, 1862, m. o. July 31, 1865, as 

corp. 
Lenan, M., e. Sept. 15, 1862, died Jan. 12, 1863. 
Martin, Robert L., e. Feb. 18, 1864, m. o. July 31, 1865. 
Miller, A. C, e. Oct. 14, 1862. 
Martin, A. W., e. Feb. 18, 1864, m. o. Aug. 4, 1865. 



Miller, Anton, e. Oct. 4, 1862, disd. April 5, 1865. 
Morris, Wm. F., e. Oct. 17, 1862, disd. May 18, 1865. 
M.ii, >is, John, e. Sept. 15, 1862, missing in action. 
Miller, John H, e. Oct. 14, 1862, disd. June 21, 1865. 
McNichols, James, e. Dec. 2, 1862, missing in action. 
O'Brien, James, e. Oct. 17, '62, m. o. July 31, '65, as sergt. 
Pardee, A. W., e. Feb. 18, 1862, disd. June 23, 1865. 
Pickard, John S., e. Nov. 6, 1862, died March 29, 1863. 
Bollinson, M. D., e. Oct. 14, 1862, missing in action. 
Stewart, Wm. H., e. Sept. 24, 1862, died Aug. 10, 1863. 
Strange, John W., e. Nov. 24, 1862, disd. Sept. 17, 1863. 
Schlimmer, K., e. Dec. 13, 1862, died May 23, 1863. 
Strange, Wm., e. Dec 24, 1864, disd. 
Scott, Alfred M., e. Feb. 18, 1864, disd. March 28, 1865. 
Thompson, Alex., e. Dec. 1, 1864. 
Vandelmrg, H., e. Oct. 1, 1864, missing in action. 



FIFTEENTH CAVALRY. 
Company L. 

Newcomer, A. C, e. Feb. 14, 1862, disd. March 16, 1863, 

disab. 
Sinclair, George S., e. Feb. 15, 1862. 

SEVENTEENTH CAVALRY. 
Company F. 

Black, E. O., e. Feb. 5, 1864, in. o. Dec. 18, 1865. 
Bowden, Hiram, e. Dec. 10, 1863, drowned July 3, 1864. 
Clark, H. R., e. Jan. 25, 1864. 

Delate, L. W., e. Dec. 25, 1863, died July 26, 1864. 
Davis, E. H., e. Dec. 15, 1864, m. o. Dec. 18, 1865. 
Delate, William D., e. Dec. 15, 1864, m. o. June 12, 1865, 

disab. 
Horton, George E., e. Jan. 23, 1864, m. o. Dec. 18, 1865. 
Hall, James H., e. Jan. 4, 1864, trans, to Inv. Corps. 
Justice, Charles T., e. Jan. 23,1864. 
Luke, Moses H., e. Jan. 25, 1864, m. o. Dec. 18. 1865. 
Mapes, William E., e. Jan. 4, 1864, m. o. Dec. 18, 1865. 
Phifer, John W., e. Dec. 15, 1S63, m. o. Dec. 18, 1865. 

Company H. 

Redder, Bernard, e. Jan. 5, 1864, m. o. May 23, 1865. 

Company M. 

Bolster, William A., e. Feb. 5, 1864, m. o. Nov. 23, 1865. 

Brooks, R. H., e. Jan. 5, 1864, m. o. Nov. 23, 1865. 

Carver, Mellen. 

Calvin, F. M., e. Jan. 5, 1864. 

Fitzpatrick, William, e. Dec. 31, 1863, m. o. Nov. 23, 1865. 

Fuller, E. C, e. Jan. 5, 1864, m. o. May 25, 1864. 

Green, Charles, e. Jan. 5, 1864, disd. July 14, 1864. 

Gardner, Edw., e. Dec. 31, 1863, m. o. Nov. 23, 1865. 

Giltner, R. D., e. Dec. 24, 1863. 

Hyde, Daniel, e. Jan. 15, 1864. 

Harmon, William, e. Jan. 5, 1864, m. o. Nov. 23, 1865. 

Harvey, Albert. 

McLaughlin, Richard, e. Jan. 15, 1864. 

Martzall, Solomon, e. Jan. 5, 1864, m. o. July 18, 1865. 

McGill, William, e. Dec. 31, 1863, m. o. Nov. 23, 1865. 

Randall, R. R., e. Jan. 5, 1864, m. o. Nov. 23, 1865. 

FIRST ARTILLERY. 

(Unassigned.) 
Adams, John H, e. Dec. 29, 1863. 
Lynds, H., e. Sept. 28, 1864. 
Reuter, Peter, e. Aug. 24, 1864. 



SECOND ARTILLERY. 
Company E. 



Burkhard, Casper, e 
Shilling, Frederick, 



Aug. 31,1862. 
e. Aug. 31, 1862. died March 20, '63. 



MISCELLANEOUS. 
Eighth Infantry. 

Adjt. Leauder A. Sheetz, com. March 20, 1865, m. o. May 

4, 1866. 
Second Lieut. Daniel A. Sheetz, com. Sept., 1861, kid. in 

bat. 



344 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



Eighteenth Infantry. 

(Consolidated.) 
Capt. Urias H. Eaton, com. 1st lieut. March 18, 1865, 
prmtd. capt. July 17, 1865, res. Oct. 12, 1865. 

Fifty-seventh Infantry. 

Forbes, Edwin, e. Dec. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 27, 1863, m. o. 

July 7, 1865. 
Rodmire, Joseph, e. Dec. 10, 1861, vet. Dec. 27, 1863, m. o. 

July 7, 1865. 

Fifty-eighth Infantry. 

Bauer, Peter, e. Nov. 30, 1861, supposed to be dead. 
James, Phillip, e. Nov. 20, 1861, died Feb., 1862, wds. 
Koll.-r, Jacob, e. Nov. 28, 1861. 

Sixty-fourth Infantry. 

Reisch, Chris, e. Dec. 1, 1861. 



Seventy-second Infantry. 

Stoddart, Farrell, e. , died Sept. 4, 1864. 

Seventy-fifth Infantry, 

Surg. Chesseldon, Fisher, com. July 28, 1863, res. Nov. 22. 
1864. 

Eighty-ninth Infantry. 

Ayers, John, e. Nov. 28, 1863, trans, to 39th inf. 
Koym, William, e. Oct. 26, 1863, kid. June 22, 1864. 
Creschance, Case, e. Aug. 7, 1862, m. o. June 10, 1865. 
Connor, Michael, e. July 31, 1862, disd. Jan. 29, 1865. 

disab. 
Roe, Charles E., e. Aug. 14, 1862, prmtd. Q. M. Sergt. 
Snyder, Chris., e.'Aug. 7, 1862. 

Wadsworth, O. T., e. July 31, 1862, m. o. June 10, 1865. 
Stitle, Henry, e. — — . 



STEPHENSON COUNTY SOLDIERS' MONUMENT. 

Immediately after the close of the great war for the Union, there was con- 
siderable discussion among the leading citizens of Stephenson County, without 
regard to party affiliations, as to the propriety of erecting a suitable monument 
to commemorate the heroism of the noble sons of Stephenson County who had 
voluntarily laid down their lives upon the altar of their country, and the opinion 
was universal that the living owed such a lasting memento to the memory of 
their gallant dead. No practical steps were taken, however, until the winter 
of 1868, when a mass meeting was called on Saturday, February 19, 1868, 
at the hall of the Grand Army of the Republic, in Freeport. The meeting 
was well attended. Gen. Smith D. Atkins was elected Chairman, and C. C. 
Shuler, Esq., Secretary. A constitution for forming the Stephenson County 
Soldiers' Monument Association was reported, and unanimously adopted, of 
which Articles I and II read as follows : 

ARTICLE I. NAME. 

Section 1. This Association shall be known as "The Stephenson County Soldiers' Monu- 
ment Association." 

ARTICLE II. — OBJECT. 

Skction 1. The object of this Association shall be the erection of a suitable monument, or 
memorial, to the memory of the gallant dead of Stephenson County, who have laid down their 
lives while serving in the armies of the United States during the rebellion, in order to rescue 
their names from forgetfulness. and suitably honor their heroic devotion to country and liberty, 
when country and liberty were in peril. 

Articles III. and IV. provided for the proper officers of the association, and 
minutely defined their duties ; which were those usual to such associations, and 
we omit them here. 

On motion, the following officers were elected as provided for by the con- 
stitution : President, Hon. John. H. Addams, of Cedarville ; Vice Presidents, 
Gen. J. Wilson Shaffer, of Freeport ; Ross Babcock, of Ridott ; Major J. W. 
McKim, of Freeport, and Capt. J. P. Reel, of Buckeye ; Recording Secretary, 
Gen. Smith D. Atkins, of Freeport ; Corresponding Secretary, James S. Mc- 
Call, of Freeport ; Treasurer, Capt. William Young, of Silver Creek. Execu- 
tive Committee, C. C. Shuler, Freeport ; Capt. William Cox, Winslow ; B. P. 
Belknap, Oneco ; Daniel Bellman, Rock Grove ; Capt. J. M. Schermerhorn, 
West Point ; Levi Robey, Waddams ; Capt. William Stewart, Buckeye ; Capt. 
Robert T. Cooper, Rock Run ; Capt. George S. Kleckner, Kent; Capt. F. A. 
Darling, Erin ; Perez A. Tisdell, Harlem ; Capt. W. J. Reitzell. Lancaster ; 
Hon. James S. Taggart, Ridott ; Frederic Baker, Silver Creek ; Conrad Van 
Brocklin, Florence ; Maj. H. M. Timms, Loran ; John R. Hayes, Jefferson, 
and Harrison Diemer, Dakota. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 345 

Immediately thereafter, a meeting of the Executive Committee was called 
in the parlors of the Second National Bank in Freeport, which was fully- 
attended, and an address was prepared and published to the citizens of the 
county inviting them to subscribe to the fund for building the monument. It 
was decided to have a membership certificate engraved, with correct likenesses 
of Col. Holden Putnam, Ninety-third Illinois Volunteers, Col. John A. Davis, 
Forty-sixth Illinois Volunteers, and Maj. William R. Goddard, Fifteenth Illi- 
nois Volunteers, engraved thereon, they being the only field officers from 
Stephenson County who had given their lives in the war ; such membership cer- 
tificate to be issued to each subscriber of $1 or more. A meeting was appointed 
for each township in the county to urge the citizens to take hold of the work, all of 
which meetings were addressed by the Secretary of the Association, Gen. S. D. 
Atkins, and at many of the meetings he was accompanied by Hon. J. M. Bailey 
and Maj. I. C. Lawver. In the newspaper report of one of these meetings held 
at Ridott, we find the following pleasant reference : " At Ridott, a small audi- 
ence subscribed a little upward of $100. The meeting was addressed by 
Gen. Atkins and Maj. Lawver. The Major referred to the fact that before the 
war, he was a Democrat in sentiment, while Gen. Atkins was a Republican. 
They went to the war in the same regiment, and fought side by side ; neither 
has changed his political sentiments, and now they are side by side in honoring 
their dead comrades. So it should be with Democrats and Republicans. The 
soldiers lost their lives for their country, and all parties should join in erecting 
a monument to their heroism." The meetings held in the townships resulted 
in a very thorough organization in all parts of the county, but, after pretty 
thorough canvassing, only $3,500 had been pledged on the various township 
subscriptions. The officers of the association therefore resolved to ask the 
Board of Supervisors to make an appropriation to be added to the voluntary 
subscriptions that altogether would be sufficient for the completion of a suitable 
soldiers' monument in commemoration of the heroic dead of the entire county. 
On Tuesday, June 29, 1869, the Board of Supervisors being in special session. 
Hon. John H. Addams, the President of the Association, Capt. William Young. 
Treasurer, and Gen. S. D. Atkins, Secretary, as a committee on the part of the 
Soldiers' Monument Association, waited upon the Board of Supervisors and 
requested from them permission to erect the monument on the Court House 
Square in the city of Freeport, and, also, a suitable donation toaid in its erection. 
Permission was granted by the board to erect the monument on the public 
square as requested, and the sum of $6,000 voted to aid in the erection of the 
monument by an almost unanimous vote, only one dissenting, and from that 
hour the completion of the Stephenson County Soldiers' Monument was 
assured. The following members of the Board of Supervisors were added to the 
Executive Committee of the Monument Association : S. K. Fisher, of Waddams ; 
James McFatrich, of West Point, and James A. Grimes, of Lancaster. 

The funds for erecting the monument having been provided, the Secretary 
was instructed to advertise in the New York, Philadelphia, Cincinnati and Chi- 
cago papers for designs and plans for a monument, to be submitted at a meeting 
of the association on July 28, 1869, at which time there were artists present 
with plans from all the cities named. Gen. Atkins also submitted a plan 
designed by himself, for a monument of Joliet marble. 12x12 at base, eighty- 
three feet high, to be surmounted on the top with a statue of " Victory," in 
bronze, thirteen feet high, making the monument ninety-six feet from the base 
to the top of the statue of " Victory," with life-size soldiers on the four corners 
of the lower base of the monument, in bronze, representing the four arms of the 



346 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

service — Infantry, Cavalry, Artillery and Navy. After full discussion of th t 
various plans submitted, on motion of Daniel Bellman, of Rock Grove, th* 
design prepared and submitted by Gen. S. D. Atkins was adopted. H. H. Upp 
was appointed superintendent of the building of the monument, with authority 
to make all contracts. Hon. John H. Addams, James A. Grimes, Samuel K. 
Fisher, Dr. W. J. McKim, Capt. William Young and Gen. Smith D. Atkins 
were appointed a Sub-building Committee, to approve all contracts before they 
should be in force. 

The contracts were immediately let and the erection of the monument 
proceeded with. Under the superintendence of Mr. H. H. Upp, Mr. Adolph 
Beodiker prepared the foundation ; Elias Perkins contracted to lay up the Jol- 
iet stone, and the Chicago Terra Cotta Company contracted to furnish the 
statue of '"Victory," and the four soldiers, which were especially prepared by 
the celebrated artist Sig. Giovanni Meli. The Terra Cotta Company contracted 
to furnish the statuary in bronze, but, hoping to do better, covered them with 
copper by an electric bath, and failed to make the deposit of copper sufficiently 
heavy, so that the copper cracked and scaled off, and the statuary was after- 
ward painted by Mr. Daniel Adamson in imitation of Joliet marble, the ma- 
terial out of which the monument was constructed. The colossal statue of 
"Victory " surmounting the monument, designed by the celebrated artist Sig. 
Giovanni Meli, is an original conception of the artist, and is a work of very 
great artistic merit. The Chicago Republican of Friday, December 17, 1869, 
thus refers to it : " But the last great work of this artist is the colossal statue 
of 'Victory,' which he has made from an original design, and which it is in- 
tended to render in terra cotta for the soldiers' monument at Freeport. The 
' Victory ' is the largest sculptural work ever composed in America, being thir- 
teen feet high. It is, even to the minutest detail, finished as perfectly as the 
finest marble statue. While the imposing dignity and majestic pose of the 
figure at once impress the beholder, yet the proportions are so nicely observed 
and such is the careful and artistic handling of the drapery, which sweeps in 
broad, massive folds to the feet of the figure, that its colossal height and great 
size do not at once appear. The figure stands in a strong and confident, 
though not bold, posture, with its right foot slightly advanced, and a portion of 
the weight of the body thrown upon the right hand, which rests on the staff of 
a large flag. The flag is gathered up in large folds by the sweep of the right 
arm, while, as if caught by some passing breeze, the fluttering ends swell out 
behind in broad waves of graceful drapery, so light and silken that they seem 
almost to ripple in the air. The left hand hangs by the side with an easy grace 
and holds the symbolic olive. The head — ah ! there is the secret of the impos- 
ing dignity which, like an atmosphere, is rather felt than seen in the figure. 
Set on a neck which suggests rather than expresses power, is the grand head 
which crowns the statue, and which in its benignant dignity blends the imperial 
justice of the conqueror with the melting mercy of an injured though pardon- 
ing ruler. The head is thrown back as if a glorious sense of triumph thrilled 
it through with joy ; and, though the eyes are raised as if a gleam of the battle 
fire still lit them with a glorious passion, yet the lips are parted with a smile of 
calm and satisfied peace that softens the sternness of the upper face. There is a 
curious interblending of the ancient and modern in the face, which, though at 
first sight incongruous, has been made by the artist to secure an effect that 
could not otherwise have been produced. The eyes and forehead are purely 
Grecian, and have an imperious, almost a hard, boldness of expression — while 
the cheek, chin and mouth are rounded with a sweet and tender grace that re- 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 347 

lieves the face from that otherwise strong and stern look, and gives to it a mod- 
ern type or cast of countenance seldom before introduced in sculpture. Thus 
while the full face view gives to the beholder the impression of an imperious 
and proud Queen, calm in her self-poised dignity, and strong in her self-reliant 
nature, the profile — contrary to all precedent — seems melted with the sunshine 
of a happy spirit, which suffuses the whole face with a smile. Usually the 
character is shown by the profile, which is more pronounce than the open face, 
but. the artist says that the subject demanded the blending of Grecian features 
with American, and the happy effect produced by this combination has united 
dignity with grace, and sweetness with strength." 

On Tuesday, October 19, 1869, the corner-stone was laid with great cere- 
mony, under the auspices of the Masonic bodies of Freeport, participated in by 
the Odd Fellows, Turnvereins, Fire Department and citizens. Dr. W. J. 
McKim was Grand Marshal. After the Masonic ceremonies were concluded, 
the Freeport Journal says : " The Senior Grand Warden introduced Sir Knight 
Gen. Smith D. Atkins, who, owing to the absence of Sir Knight Col. Thomas 
J. Turner, orator of the day, was invited, and delivered an effective and elo- 
quent address of some twenty minutes' duration." The lower base of the monu- 
ment is 12x12 feet and twelve feet high. On each of the four sides are two 
niches, in which a panel of white marble in inserted, on which are cut the names 
of those soldiers of Stephenson County who are known to have given their lives 
for their country, as follows : 

Eighth Regiment I. V. I. — F. Benglesdorff, Co. E, A. A. Berryhill, Co. 
F, killed at Vicksburg, May 22, 1863; Joseph Berger, Co. I, died at Marshall, 
Texas, Sept. 12, 1865; Lieut. H. A. Sheets, Co. — , killed at Fort Donelson, 
Feb. 15, 1862. 

Eleventh Regiment I. V. I. — J. Alexander, Co. A, died Aug. 31, 1861 ; 
F. R. Bellman, Co. A, killed at Fort Donelson, Feb. 15, 1862 ; John Brad- 
ford, Co. A, died of disease contracted in service, ; John Cronemiller, Co. 

A, killed at Fort Donelson, Feb. 15, 1862; William Clingman, Co. A, killed 
at Fort Donelson, Feb. 15, 1862 ; Louis Clement, Co. D, died of wounds, July 

27, 1864 ; Thomas Chattaway, Co. A, drowned at Bird's Point, Mo., ; 

William Eddy, Co. A, died at Camp Hardin ; Captain Silas W. Field, Co. A, 
died of wounds, May 9, 1862; John W. Fry, Co. A, died, Oct. 17. 1862; 
Franklin T. Goodrich, Co. A, killed at Shiloh, April 6, 1862 ; David F. Gra- 
ham, Co. A, killed at Fort Donelson, Feb. 15, 1862 ; Henry Groenwold, Co. 
A, killed at Fort Donelson, Feb. 15, 1862 ; John M. Hauman, Co. A, killed 
at Shiloh, April 6, 1862 ; Franklin D. Hartman, Co. A, killed at Shiloh, April 
6, 1862 ; B. N. Kramer, Co. A, Joseph Kailey, Co. A, killed at Fort Donelson, 
Feb. 15, 1862 ; Franklin D. Lambert, Co. A, killed at Vicksburg, May 22, 
1863 ; S. McGinnis, Co. A, R. Clothin, Co. A, David McCormick, Co. A, 

died of wounds, ; Isaac N. Ross, Co. A, killed at Fort Donelson, Feb. 

15, 1862: Hial B. Springer, Co. A, died of wounds, July 14, 1862; John 
A. Thompson, Co. A, killed at Fort Donelson, Feb. 15, 1862; John Trim- 
per, Co. A, killed at Fort Donelson, Feb. 15, 1862; Milton S. Weaver, 
Co. A, died Sept. 2, 1861 : George Wohlford, Co. A, died Aug. 28, 1863; 
James Wentz, Co. A, died of wounds, May 19, 1862. 

Tivelfth Regiment. — G. Smith. 

Fifteenth Regiment I. V. 1. — B. W. Ballenger, Co. G, George A.Barton, 
Co. A, died Feb. 27, 1862 ; A. V. S. Butler, Co. G, died, Jan. 4, 1864 ; 
R. B. Bailey, Co. G, killed at Shiloh, April 6, 1862 : A. Brahm, Co. G, died 
Dec. 15, 1862; J. H. Bowker, Co. G, died Aug. 17, 1861 ; W. J. Buswell, 



348 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

Co. G, died Oct. 14, 1863 ; E. S. Denton, Co. G, J. Clingman, Co. G, E. 
A. V. S. Butler, Co. G; R. B. Baily, Co. G; A. Brahm, Co. G; J. 

H. Bowker, Co. G ; N. J. Burwel, Co. G ; J. Clingman, Co. G : 

Deye, Co. E, died of wounds, May 5, 1862 ; M. Doyle, Co. G, killed at 
Shiloh, April 6, 1862; Maj. William R. Goddard, killed at Shiloh, April 6, 
1862 ; W. Eells, Co. G, J. H. Hawkins, Co. E, J. Illingworth, Co. G, M. V. 
Kline, Co. G, died Nov= 8, 1861 ; F. Kline, Co. E, died at Andersonville, 
Sept. 10, 1864 ; E. W. Ling, Co. G, died Aug. 15, 1863 ; C. Lashell. Co. 
H, died July 12, 1865 ; J. Mook, Co. G, S. Mook, Co. G, J. Murphy,' Co. 
G, D. Milholin, Co. G, died of wounds, June 24, 1862 ; John Niemeyer, Co. 
G, killed at Shiloh, April 6, 1862 ; Hugh Phillips, Co. G, died June 6, 1862 ; 
H. Stamm, Co. G, J. H. Ross, Co. I, Charles Smith, Co. E, died April 
22, 1862; David Stocks, Co. I, died of wounds, June 24, 1869; E. D. 
Solace, Co. I, died of wounds, April 8, 1862 ; D. R. P. Stites, Co. G, killed 
at Shiloh, April 6, 1862 ; 0. Tenant, Co. G, died of wounds, April 6, 1862 ; 
J. S. Wheeler, Co. G, killed at Shiloh, April 6, 1862 ; J. W. Van Valzah, 
Assistant Surgeon, died Aug. 9, 1863 ; J. Wier, Co. B. 

Eighteenth Regiment I. V. I. — Cyrus Paden, Co. G, died at Camp But- 
ler, April 6, 1865 ; J. Maxwell, Co. I. 

Twenty-sixth Regiment I. V. I. — Philip Baker, Co. B, killed at Farm- 
ington, May 9, 1862 ; Jans Butcher, Co. B, died at Chattanooga, Oct. 13, 
1864 : John F. Black, Co. H, died of wounds at Marietta, Sept. 11, 1864 ; 
Aaron Clay, Co. B, died at Danville, Miss., July 11, 1862 ; Charles Choppy, 
Co. B, died of wounds at Chattanooga, May 3, 1864 ; J. P. Dittv, Co. B, died 
at Keokuk, Aug. 17, 1863 ; William Eshelman, Co. B, died July 27, 1862 ; 
William A. Eggert, Co. B, died June 14, 1862 ; A. J. Eastland, Co. I, died at 
Camp Sherman, Aug. 18, 1863 ; Julius Frisbee, Co. B, died at Point Pleasant, 
April 2, 1862 ; Charles Gold, Co. B, died of wounds, Jan. 9, 1864 ; Simon 
Gates, Co. B, died Sept. 17, 1863 ; John Geiser, Co. B, died of wounds at 
Chattanooga, Jan. 2, 1864 ; Aaron Heise, Sr., Co. B, died at Scottsboro, March 
24, 1864 ; John Heise, Co. B, died of wounds at Marietta, Aug. 9, 1864 ; 
Moses Heise, Co. B, died at Scottsboro, March 22, 1864 ; George H. Hettle, 
Co. B, killed at Scottsboro, May 1, 1864 ; Lieut. John Irwin, Co. G, died Oct. 
6, 1863 ; C. D. Jinks, Co. B, died at Scottsboro, March 20, 1864; W. Knauss, 
Co. G, died at Resaca, Aug. 13, 1864 ; J. Kinney, Co. B, died at Atlanta, July 
22, 1864 ; J. Keigan, Co. I, Wm. Long, Co. B, died at Iuka, Aug. 28, 1862; D. 
Morris, Co. B, died of wounds at Dallas, May 29, 1864 ; P. F. Montague, Co. B, 
killed at Scottsboro, April 30, 1864 ; L. McCoy, Co. B, died of wounds at Chatta- 
nooga, July 22, 1864; Thomas Nicholas, Co. B, died at Corinth, Oct. 4, 1862; 
John J. Nigg, Co. B, died of wounds at Danville, July 7, 1862 ; William 

Quinn, Co. B, died ; S. J. Robinold, Co. B, died at Farmington, May 

22, 1862 ; A. L. Rice, Co. H, died of wounds at Marietta, Oct. 14, 1864 ; P. 
E. Smith, Co. B, killed at Resaca, May 13, 1864; John Schmidt, Co. B, killed 
at Mission Ridge, Nov. 25, 1863 ; Egbert Snyder, Co. B, died at Scottsboro, 
March 17, 1864; J. P. Winters, Co. B, died at Corinth, Oct. 10, 1862; 
Thomas Wishart, Co. B, died at Memphis, Nov. 27, 1863 ; J. Walkey, Co. B, 
died at New Madrid, March 22, 1862 ; John Walton, Co. B, killed March 7, 
1865. 

Thirty-second Regiment I. V. I. — J. P. Walker, Co. C, died at Annap- 
olis, March 10, 1865; F. J. Erickson, Co. A. 

TJiirty-fourth Regiment I. V. I. — J. H. Brown, Co. H, died of wounds, 
May 11, 1862. 




FREE PORT. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 351 

Thirty- seventh Regiment I. V. I. — N. G. Wire, Co. D, killed at Pea 
Ridge, March 7, 1862 ; A. W. Tarbert, Co. — . 

Thirty-ninth Regiment I. V. I. — W. Agnej, Co. G, killed in Virginia, 
Oct. 13, 1864. 

Forty-second Regiment I. V. I. — Samuel Kohl, Co. G, died of wounds, 
Dec. — , 1864 ; L. Mossman, Co. G, died at Andersonville, March 1, 1865 ; 
L. Warner, Co. G, died of wounds, Jan. 11, 1865. W. Bunte, Jr. 

Forty-fifth Regiment I. V. I. — J. Jordan, Co. C, Andrew Mourn, Co. 
C, killed - — - ; W. T. McClothlin, Co. B ; J. Watterson, Co. G, killed at 
Shiloh, April 6, 1862. 

Forty-sixth Regiment I. V. I. — A. F. Arnold, Co. A, killed at Shiloh, 
April 6, 1862 ; William Andre, Co. A, died at Duval's Bluff, Dec. 10, 1864 ; 
William W. Allison, Co. A, died at Memphis, March 16, 1863 ; A. E. Arnold, 

Co. A, died at ; Cyrus Ashenfelter, Co. B, died at Camp Butler, Dec. 6, 

1861 ; F. Ashenfelter, Co. D, Robert G. Aikey, Co. G, killed at Shiloh, April 
6, 1862 ; John Apker, Co. K, died at Mobile, May 8, 1865 ; Robert T. Best, 
Co. A, died at Camp Butler, Nov. 7, 1861 ; Wesley J. Best, Co. A, died of 
wounds at Vicksburg, Aug. 19, 1864 ; R. D. Bruner, Co. A, died at Cairo, 
Oct. 6, 1864 ; Edward Barrett, Co. A, died at Vicksburg, Aug. 12, 1864 ; 
Charles F. Bower, Co. B, died of wounds, April 23, 1862 ; A. Bauer, Co. C, 

died ; H. Bagger, Co. C, died at Bolivar, Oct. 15, 1862 ; A. Buckhardt, 

Co. C, died at Salubriety Springs, July 24, 1865 ; J. S. Brown, Co. G, died 
of wounds, April 28, 1862 ; R. Brubuker, Co. G, died of wounds, Aug. 9, 
1862; George D. Beeler, Co. G, killed at Shiloh, April 6, 1862 ; B. L. Bates, 

Co. G, died at LaGrange, July 12, 1862 ; L. C. Butler, Co. K, died ; 

James A. Butler, Co. K, died at LaGrange, July 12, 1862: George F. Brown, 
Co. K, died at St. Louis, May 18, 1862 ; Dudley Barker, Co. K, died in 
Shreveport, June 17, 1865 ; A. Barker, Co. B, John Brace, Co. K, died of 
wounds, May 22, 1862; Lieut. Louis E. Butler, Co. K, died at Salubriety 
Springs, Oct. 5, 1865 ; J. Backus, Co. K, Hiram Clingman, Co. A, killed at 
Shiloh, April 6, 1862 ; Charles Clouse, Co. A, died at Mound City, Sept. 7, 1862 ; 
George Cox, Co. B, died of wounds, Oct. 9, 1862 ; Henry Cruger, Co. B, 
died at Big Black, April 11, 1864 ; Thomas A. Clingman, Co. F, died of 

wounds, ; W. Cramer, Co. K, J. Chambers, Co. B, Col. John A. Davis, 

died of wounds, Bolivar, Oct. 10, 1862 ; D. P. DeHaven, Co. A, died at 
Memphis, Sept. 22, 1862 ; Daniel Dreisbach, Co. G, died at Memphis, May 
12, 1863; Thomas H. Dodson, Co. K, died June 1, 1862; Joseph Doan, 
Co. K, died at Vicksburg, Mav 28, 1864; Jacob Dobson. Co. K, died Oct. 30, 
1864 ; J. E. Derrick, Co. A, John Elliott, Co. A, killed at Shiloh, April 6. 
1862 ; B. W. Eghusen, Co. C, died at St. Louis, May 19, 1864 ; Lansing 
Ells, Co. D, died of wounds. May 14, 1864 ; Marion Elv, Co. K, died at 
Vicksburg, Aug. 8, 1864 ; Johurm J. Esh, Co. C, died — ; W. Elliott, Co. 
A ; A. M. Fellows, Co. A, died of wounds, Quincy, May 2, 1862 ; R. A. 
Fawver, Co. A, drowned Aug. 20, 1864 ; Henry Frize, Co. B, died May 31, 
1862 ; C. Frewart, Co. C, died at Duval's Bluff, Dec. 19, 1864 ; T. S. Felton, 
'Co. K, died at Freeport, March 17, 1862; J. D. Fogle, Co. D, Charles H. 

Gramp, Co. C, died ; Hiram C. Galpin, Co. A, died July 8, 1862; 

William A. George, Co. B, died at New Orleans, Sept. 10, 1864 : H. Giboni, 
Co. C, killed at Shiloh, April 6, 1862 ; Gotlieb Greetzley, Co. C, died of wounds 
at Louisville. April 26, 1862 ; Samuel H. Groken, Co. G, died about April 6, 
1862 ; E. H. Gardener, Co. K, died at Corinth, June 18, 1862 : John Hoot, 
Co. A, killed at Shiloh, April 6, 1862 ; H. W. Hollenbeck, Co. A, died of 



352 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

wounds, Mav 3, 1862 ; W. H. Holsinger, Co. A, died at Pittsburg Landing, 

April 1, 1862; Sergt. Maj. J. E. Hershey, died ; Langford Hill, Co. 

B, died ; Lieut H. Harbert, Co. C, died ; Andrew Hess, Co. B, 

died of wounds at New Orleans, April 24, 1865 ; F. Hasselman, Co. C, killed 
at Shiloh, April 6, 1862; F. Heine, Co. C, killed near Jackson, July 8, 1864; 
0. Husinga, Co. C, died at Pittsburg Landing, May 5, 1862 ; H. H. Hayden, 
Co. D, died at Memphis, Jan. 6, 1865 ; Henry H. Hulet, Co. G, died at 
Hamburg, May 30, 1862 ; William Helm, Co. G, died at Vicksburg, June 26, 
1863; William Haines, Co. G, died in Stephenson County, Feb. 16, 1863 ; 
Barney Hand. Co. K, died at Camp Butler, Dec. 26, 1861 ; Lieut. Thomas 
M. Hood, Co. G, killed at Shiloh, April 6, 1862 ; Samuel E. Hershey, Co. B, 
died ; 0. Kittleson, Co. K, W. T. Johnson and J. Y. Haughney, Co. 

B, Eugene V. Kellogg, Co. B, killed at Shiloh, April 6, 1862; Albert 
Kocher, Co. C, died at Louisville, May 15, 1862 ; C. Kahn. Co. C, 
died at St. Louis, May 15, 1862 ; Jacob Kramer, Co. C, died at St. 
Louis, July 19, 1862; H. Klock, Co. C, died in Kentucky, July 4, 1862 ; F. 
Kraemer, Co. C, died at Corinth, May 26, 1862 ; A. Knock, Co. C, killed at Shi- 
loh, April 6, 1862 ; John Katlerer, Co. C, died at New Orleans, Sept. 18, 
1864 ; Carl Krueger, Co. C, died at Duval's Bluff, Nov. 29, 1864 ; Hiram R. 
Knight, Co. D, died at Vicksburg, June 3, 1864 ; George Kettner, Co. G, 
died of wounds, April 12, 1862; F. J. LeFevre, Co. C, died of wounds, April 

9, 1862 ; Daniel Lobdell, Co. B, died at Cairo, Oct. 3, 1864 ; Aaron Lapp, Co. 

C, died at Fort Henry, May 4, 1862 ; John Larve, Co. G, died at Vicksburg, 
June 27, 1863 ; Peter LaBell, Co. G, died at Louisville, June 2, 1862 ; James 
La Hay, Co. K, died at New Orleans, Feb. 19, 1865 ; Capt. John Musser, 
Co. A, died of wounds, April 24, 1862 ; Charles F. More, Co. A, died of 
wounds at Memphis, April 2, 1863 ; J. C. McCarthy, Co. A, died at Freeport, 

March 9, 1865 ; D. J. Mingle, Co. B, died ; J. H. Mingle, Co. B, died 

; Willard F. May, Co. A, died at Vicksburg, May 18, 1864 ; Harry A. 

Mack, Co. B, died at Winslow, June 15, 1862 ; John W. Mallory, Co. B, died 
in Corinth, May 17, 1862 ; Joseph McGinnis, Co. B, died at Camp Butler, 
Oct. 9, 1861 ; Leons Marbeth, Co. C, killed at Shiloh, April 6, 1862 ; J. F. 
Marks, Co. C, killed at Shiloh, April 6, 1862; C. Meise, Co. C; J. W. Max- 
well, Co. D, died at Morganzia, Aug. 23, 1864 ; G. W. Mudy, Co. D, died at 
Mound City, Sept. 9, 1864 ; James C. Mallory, Co. F, died at St. Louis, Aug. 

10, 1862 ; John F. Moothart, Co. G, died in Stephenson Co., Feb. 9, 1864 ; 
Thomas Myron, Co. K, died at Corinth, June 12, 1862 ; Aaron Miller, Co. K, 
died at Corinth, June 12, 1862 ; E. Mueller, Co. C, Peter O'Konas, Co. C, 
died at Shreveport, June 12, 1865 ; Q. E. Pollock, Co. A, died Jan. 6, 1862 ; 
Theodore Peck, Co. A, died at Camp Butler, Jan. 8, 1862; John Patten, Co. 

A, killed at Shiloh, April 6, 1862 ; Levi Penticoff, Co. B, died at Evansville, 
Oct. 19, 1862 ; Julius Potter, Co. B, died at Camp Butler, Feb. 6, 1861 ; W. 
Penning, Co. C, died at Camp Butler, Dec. 31, 1861 ; George Preising, Co. 
G, killed near Jackson, July 7, 1864 ; W. Quinn Co. K, W. H. Rodimer, 
Co. A, killed at Shiloh, April 6, 1862 ; E. W. Rollins, Co. A, died at 
Corinth, June 29, 1862 ; James Riem, Co. A, died at home, March 22, 
1864; D. E. Rogers, Co. A, died at Bailevville, Dec. 12, 1864; H. G. 
Rogers, Co. A, killed at Shiloh, April 6, 1862 ; Charles W. Rockwell, Co. 

B, died at Quincy, May 14, 1862 ; Henry Roush, Co. B. died at Freeport, 
May 10, 1864; J. Rebel, Co. C, killed at Shiloh, April 6, 1862; C. 
Reismayer, Co. C, died of wounds at Savannah, Jan. 1, 1862 ; Jacob 
Rudel, Co. D, died ; H. Reismayer, Co. G, died of wounds, July 10, 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 353 

1864 ; Jacob Reagel, Co. K, died at Bolivar, Oct. 22, 1862; R. P. Ritzman, 
Co. A, Nelson A. Scoville. Co. A, died of wounds at Savannah, April 18, 
1862 ; J. M. Stephens, Co. A, died at Corinth, May 9, 1862 ; Charles H. Seidle, 
Co. A, died at Mound City, Nov. 20, 1864 ; A. J. Steele, Co. A; died at St. 
Louis, July 24,1863 ; Jacob Stottler, Co. B, died at St. Louis, May — , 1862 ; 
Charles N. Shane, Co. B, died at St. Louis, July 26, 1863; Edwin L. Stone, 
Co. B, died at New Madrid, Nov. 27, 1864 ; H. Schmeitzhaf, Co. C, died of 
wounds at St. Louis, April 24, 1862 ; M. Steinhofer, Co. C, died at Corinth, 
Jan. 25, 1862 ; Peter Steinmetz, Co. C, died at White River, Oct. 15, 1864 ; 
Jacob Spies, Co. C, killed near Hatchie, Oct. 5, 1862 ; H. Schlieker, Co. C, 
drowned in Mississippi, Aug. 26, 1864 ; A. R. Simcox, Co. D, died at Sa- 
lubriety Springs, Aug. 6, 1865 ; Joseph Stamp, Co. G, died in Stephenson 
Co., June 15, 1862: John Shiveley, Co. G, died of wounds, April 23, 1863; 
Jacob Sheffer, Co. G, died at Jacksonville, July 7, 1862 ; Martin Smith, Co. 
G, died at Vicksburg, March 21, 1864; John T. Shinkle, Co. G, died at Mor- 
ganzia, Aug. 28, 1864 ; William G. Stamm, Co. G, died at Vicksburg, Sept. 
24, 1864; Joseph Shippy, Co. G, died in Stephenson Co., Nov. 28, 1864; 
John Shearer, Co. G, died in Chicago, Sept. 26, 1864 ; T. Shaub, Co. 
G, J. M. Thompson, Co. A, died at Pittsburg Landing, April 1, 1862 ; 
George W. Trotter, Co. A, died Oct. — , 1865 ; Friederich Trei, Co. C, 
died at Monterey, May 9, 1862; Lieut. M. R. Thompson, Co. G, killed at 
Hatchie, Oct. 10, 1862 ; Neil Thompson, Co. K, died May 13, 1862 ; John 
Vinson, Co. B, died at Morganzia, Aug. 12, 1864; N. H. Van DJurken, 
Co. C, died at Pittsburg Landing, April 25, 1862 ; Philip Van Copp, Co. 
C, died at Camp Hebron, May 21, 1864 ; B. F. Wilson, Co. A. died at 
Camp Butler, Dec. 30, 1861 ; J. Weiland, Co. A, S. Ward, Co. — , W. 
Weaver, Co. G, John B. Wishler, Co. A, killed at Shiloh, April 6, 
1862 ; George Wilson, Co. B, died at Pittsburg Landing, April 30, 1862 ; 
Martin Wales, Co. D, killed at Shiloh, April 6, 1862 ; Peter Williams, Co. Gr, 
died at Dauphin Island, March 5, 1865 ; William Williams, Co. G, died at 
Duval's Bluff ; Dec. 14, 1864 ; A. Wolfanger, Co. G, died at Shreveport, 
July 19, 1865 ; Thomas Walbridge, Co. K, drowned Nov. 28, 1864 ; William 
Withneck, Co. K, died at St. Louis, May 17, 1862 ; Abram E. Winnie, Co. 
K, died at Shreveport, June 13, 1865. 

Fifty-first Regiment I. V. 1. — Dennis Cook, Co. K, died at . 

Fifty-third Regiment I. V. I. — W. H. H. Shean, Co. E, died at Chicago, 
March 31, 1862. 

Fifty-fifth Regiment I. V. I. — George W. Crocker, Co. I, died of wounds 
at Marietta, Sept. 20, 1864. 

Fifty-seventh Regiment I. V. I. — Thos. Millerky, Co. E, died at Free- 
port, March 13, 1864. 

Fifty-eighth Regiment I. V. I. — Peter Bauer, Co. D, died of wounds at 
Shiloh, ; P. Janus. 

Sixty-fourth Regiment I. V. I. — Josiah Capps, Co. C, died at Chatta- 
nooga, May 10, 1864. 

Seventy-first Regiment I. V. I. — E. Sherbondy, Co. D, J. Snyder, Co. D. 

Seventy-fourth Regiment I. V. I. — F. Ashenfelter, Co. I, William Bell- 
man, Co. I, died at Bowling Green, Dec. 4, 1864; Joseph Biehner, Co. 
I, died at Annapolis, March 11, 1865; T. T. Borden, Co. I, Robert 
Bingham, Co. I, died of wounds, May 16, 1864 ; Orla Clark, Co. I, 

died ; Sidney Cole, Co. I, died at Bowling Green, Nov. 5, 1862 ; 

John Ferico, Co. I, died at Murfreesboro, March 24, 1863 ; Amos Has- 



354 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

kins, Co. A, died at Huntsville, March 27, 1865 ; John Henze, Co. I, 
died of wounds, June 16, 1864; Frederick Henze, Co. [, killed at Ken- 
esaw, June 27, 1864; Austin Innman, Co. I, killed at Kenesaw, June 27, 
1864 ; Thos. Jennewine, Co. I, died of wounds, Jan. 2, 1863 ; Wm. H. Keagle, 
Co. I, died at Nashville, Dec. 13, 1862 ; Ells Knudson. Co. I, died at Nash- 
ville, Nov. 26, 1862 ; Samuel Lapp, Co. I, died at Nashville, Jan. 5, 1863 ; 
John A. Mullarkey, Co. I, died of wounds, June 28, 1864; Fred Masmin, Co. 
I, killed at Lost Mountain, June 18, 1864; M. G. McCue, Co. I, killed at 
Kenesaw, June 27, 1864 ; Capt. F. W. Stegner, Co. I, killed in battle at 
Kenesaw, June 27, 1864 ; L. H. Van Valkenburg, Co. I, killed in battle at 
Kenesaw, June 27, 1864. 

Eightieth Regiment, I. V. 1. — J. Frantz, Co. F. 

Eighty-Ninth Regiment, I. V. I. — W. Koym and W. W. Snyder, both 
of Co. I. 

Ninetieth Regiment I. V. I. — D. A.. Broderick, Co. A, killed at Jack- 
son, July 20, 1863 ; Wm. Caston, Co. A, killed at Chattanooga, Nov. 25, 1863 ; 
Patrick Cranney, Co. A, died at La Fayette, Tenn., March 28, 1863 ; John 
Crawley, Co. A, died at La Fayette, Tenn., May 18, 1863 ; John Crawford, 
Co. I, died at Nashville, June 18, 1864 ; John Doogan, Co. I, died of wounds 
at Atlanta, Sep. 23, 1864 ; B. Donahue, Co. A ; James Laughran, Co. I, died 
at Marietta, Aug. 23, 1864 ; Dennis McCarty, Co. G, killed Nov. 25, 1863 ; 
Neil 0' Garry, Co. I, died at La Grange, Jan. 21, 1863; Charles O'Connor, 
Co. I, died at Camp Sherman, Sept. 16, 1863 ; John Powers, Co. 1, died of 
wounds, Feb. — , 1862; G. Van Valkenbury, Co. I ; Michael Whalen, Co. I, 
died of wounds at Camp Sherman, Aug. 21, 1864. 

Ninety-second Regiment 1. V. I. — H. S. Armagost, Co. A, died at Mount 
Sterling, Nov. 20, 1862 ; Thomas J. Aurand, Co. F, killed at Powder Springs, 
Oct. 6, 1864; Benjamin F. Adams, Co. F, died at New Albany, Aug. 25, 
1863 ; Robert Best, Co. E, died at Danville, June 24, 1863 ; Caston C. Best, 
Co. E, died at Florence, S. C, Feb. 14, 1865 ; George Byrum, Co. F, died at 
Nashville, April 21, 1863 ; William Back, Co. G, killed, Feb. 11, 1865 ; 
Jacob Bits, Co. G, killed at Kingston, June 22, 1864 ; W. Boeke, Co. 
G, A. Baysinger, Co. G. Adam Countryman, Co. F, killed at Steels- 
boro, Oct. 26, 1864 ; John Cornforth, Co. G, died of wounds, May 18, 
1865 ; Nathan Corning, Co. G. killed at Chickamauga, September 19, 
1863; J. Crouch, Co. G, died of wounds at Davis Mills, S. C, Feb. 13, 
1865 ; John Denious, Co. A, died of wounds at Atlanta, Sep. 23, 1864 ; Will- 
iam Dickhorner, Co. G, died at Danville, Ky., Jan. 30, 1863 ; William Erb, 
Co. A, killed at Waynesboro, Ga., Dec. 4, 1864 ; William Empfield, Co. G, 
died at Danville, March 14, 1863 ; William M. Flack, Co. A, died at Lexing- 
ton, Ky., Nov. 22, 1862; John Friery, Co. F, died at Danville, Ky., Dec. 29, 
1862 ; Amos Fisk, Co. G, died at Nashville, June 30, 1863 ; Lyman A. Ford, 
Co. G. died at Danville, Jan. 2, 1863; Warren C. Goddard, Co. A, died at 
Lexington, Nov. 7, 1862 ; Charles H. Giles, Co. E, killed at Catlett's Gap, 
Ga., Sep. 17, 1863 ; W. R. Giddings, Co. G, died at Sand Lowe, -n-ug. 30, 
1864 ; C. S. Graves, Co. G, W. A. Hatch, Co. A, died at Nicholasville, Dec. 
23, 1862 ; Valentine Haum, Co. A, died at Danville, Jan. 10, 1863 ; G. 
Hicks, Co. A, W. H. Haggart, Co. G, George Johnson, Co. A, died 
at Nashville, Feb. 22, 1863 ; Charles M, Knapp, Co. F, died at Baileyville, 
Jan. 31, 1864 ; Asa Kaster, Co. F, died at Nashville, Feb. 25, 1863; G. N. 
Keiser, Co. G, died at Louisville, Oct. 14, 1863 ; Ephraim Lambert. Co. 
F, died at Nashville, Nov. 13, 1863; Benjamin F. Long, Co. F, died at Dan- 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 355 

ville, Jan. 30, 1863; Orin J. Mitchell, Co. F, died at Nashville, Feb. 17, 
1863; George Metcall, Co. A, died at Danville, May 3, 1863; George C. 
Mack, Co. A, killed at Aiken, S. C, Feb. 11, 1865; M. Miller, Co. A, 
died at Andersonville, Sep. 26, 1864 ; Emmet A. Merrill, Co. A, killed at 
Waynesboro, Ga., Dec. 4, 1864 ; Henry Miller, Co. F, died at Andersonville, 
July 10, 1864 ; Charles H. Purinton, Co. F, died at Danville, Feb. 11, 1863 ; 
J. A. Reber, Co. F, E. R. Rogers, Co. F, L. W. Rogers, Co. F, Henry 
Rudy, Co. A, died at Murfreesboro, July 21, 1863 ; John W. Rea, Co. 
G., died of wounds, April 13, 1865 ; W. W. Smith, Co. A, died at Nashville, 
Feb. 17, 1863 ; Edward Shearer, Co. G, died at Danville, Jan. 23, 1863 ; 
George Thompson, Co. F, died at Danville, Oct. 11, 1863 ; J. R. Thompson, 
Co. A, Daniel R. Vought, Co. F, died at Danville, Feb. 6, 1863 ; Albert R. 
Williams, Co. A, died at Nashville, March 13, 1863 ; Coates L. Wilson, Co. 
E, died at Chattanooga, Oct 19, 1863 ; Thomas F. Whiteside, Co. F, died 
at Danville, Feb. 20, 1863 ; William Wright, Co. F, died at Danville, Feb. 
21, 1863 ; Oscar D. Wilcoxon, Co. F, died at Concord, N. C, June 5, 1865 ; 
William Werkheiser, Co. G, died of wounds, Oct. 6, 1864 ; Ephraim Wyckoff, 
Co. G, died at Nashville, April 14, 1863 ; David C. Wingart, Co. K, died at 
Nashville, Oct. 9, 1864 ; E. Werkheiser, Co. G. 

Ninety-third Regiment I. V. I. — Alvin Addams, Co. G, died of wounds 
at Vicksburg, May 24, 1863 ; James Blue, Co. D, died at Ridgeway, Jan. 17, 
1863 ; Isaac Brandt, Co. D, killed at Altoona, Oct. 5, 1864 ; Charles Bender, 
Co. D, died at Memphis, Feb. 27, 1863; E. B. Brewer, Co. D, died at 
Memphis, April 17, 1863 ; J. B. Bollman, Co. G, killed at Champion Hills, 
May 16, 1863 ; A. M. Broughler, Co. G, killed at Champion Hills, May 16, 
1863; Henry C. Carl, Co. G, died of wounds, Oct. 22, 1864; William H. Col- 
lier, Co. G, died at Andersonville, March 30, 1864 ; D. S. Coble, Co. G, 
Samuel F. Devore, Co. D, died at Nashville, July 27, 1863; E. W. Der- 
rick, Co. D, Rudy Erwin, Co. D, killed at Champion Hills, May 16, 1863 ; 
Isaac Erb, Co. G, killed at Champion Hills, May 16, 1863; H. Erb, Co. 
G, W. H. Eisenhour, Co. G, died of wounds, May 19, 1863 ; David Forney, 
Co. G, died at Andersonville, Jan. 27, 1864; W. Frank, Co. G, Robert Fogle, 
Co. G, died at Memphis. Dec. 26, 1862 ; James Hickey, Co. D, killed at 
Champion Hills, May 13, 1863 ; Lyman Hulbert, Co. G, killed at Altoona, 
Oct. 5, 1864 ; Tobias Helm, Co. G, died at Milliken's Bend, May 16, 1863 ; 
Willis G. Haas, Co. G, killed at Vicksburg, May 2, 1863 ; S. R. Hutchin- 
son, Co. G, W. Irvin, Co. D, John J. Jewell, Co. D, died at Mem- 
phis, July 12, 1863; Daniel W. Jones. Co. G, died at Cairo. Sept. 7, 
1863; Samuel Knodle, Co. D, died at Vicksburg, Sept. 1, 1863; G. W. 
Kleckner, Co D, died of wounds at Rome, Ga., Oct. 3, 1864 ; William Krise, 
Co. G, died at St. Louis, Sept. 7, 1863; J. Leonard, Co. D, died of wounds at 
Vicksburg, May 23, 1863 ; Nathan Liscom, Co. D, died at Vicksburg, Aug. 
3, 1863; S. W. Logan, Co. G, killed at Mission Ridge, Nov. 25, 1863; 
Henry Law, Co. G, died May 29. 1863 ; D. Leible, Co. G, died at Memphis. 
Feb. 22, 1863 ; Oliver McHoes, Co. G. died at St. Louis, Nov. 30, 1863 ; 
J. P. McConnell, Co. G, died at Chicago, Oct. 9, 1864 ; J. B. Newcomer, Co. 
D, died of wounds, June 21, 1862 ; Thomas Phillips. Co. D, killed at Champion 
Hills, May 16, 1863 ; Holden Putnam ( Colonel), killed at Mission Ridge, Nov. 25, 
1863 ; T. Plush, Co. D ; E. P. Reynolds, Co. D, died at Memphis, March 12, 
1863 ; John Rima, Co. D, killed at Mission Ridge, Nov. 25, 1863 ; C. Reiser, 
Co. G, died at Jacksonville, March 28, 1863 ; H. Rossweller, Co. G. killed at 
Cham pion Hills, May 16, 1863 ; George Sills, Co. D, died of wounds at 



356 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

Champion Hills, May 22. 1863 ; J. W. Sidlinger, Co. G ; David Shearer, Co. 

D, died at New York Harbor, April 18, 1865; Benjamin F. Shockley, Co. G, 
died of wounds, May 19, 1863 ; G. Sprague, Co. D ; Thomas R. St. John, 
Co. G, died at Camp Douglas, Oct. 22, 1862 ; D. H. Terapleton, Co. D, died 
at home, Oct 3, 1862 ; George Thomas, Co. D, killed at Champion Hills, May 
16, 1863 ; John Templeton, Co. G, died of wounds at South Carolina, Feb. 
25, 1865 ; T. K. Vantilburg, Co. G, died at St. Louis, Aug. 4, 1863 ; Wil- 
liam B. Ward. Co. D, died at Vicksburg, June 29, 1863 ; Daniel Wolf, Co. 
G, killed at Champion Hills, May 19, 1863 ; William J. Wilson, Co. G, died 
of wounds, May 25, 1863; F. M. Wickwire, Co. G, died at Vicksburg, Aug 17, 
1863 ; Joel Wagner, Co. G, died of wounds at Chattanooga, Nov. 29, 1863 ; 
G. Zerbe, Co. G. 

One Hundred and Eighteenth Regiment I. V. I. — William H. Wallace, 
Co. C, died at New Orleans, Dec. 6, 1863. 

One Hundred and Forty-second Regiment I. V. I. — George Adair, Co. 
F, died at White Station, Sept. 1, 1864 ; Frank Biehl, Co. A, died at Memphis, 
Sept. 11, 1864 ; John Buisman, Co. G, died at White Station, Sept. 9, 1864 ; 
Israel Dean, Co. G, died at Memphis, Sept. 12, 1864 ; C. H. French, Co. F ; 

F. Haeuss, Co. F, died at White Station, Aug. 26, 1864 ; Charles Ludeke, 
Co. A, died Sept. 26, 1864 ; T. Murdaugh, Co. F, died at Chicago, Oct. 9, 
1864 ; D. B. Seibels, Co. E, died at Memphis, Aug. 12, 1864. 

One Hundred and Forty-sixth Regiynent I. V. I. — John Bortsfield, Co. 

E, died at Camp Butler, Dec. 13, 1864; M. L. Cornville, Co. E, died at 
Chicago, Oct. 7, 1864; S. Haggart, Co. E ; J. S. Murray, Co. E, died at 
Camp Butler, Feb. 1, 1865 ; Nathan Springer, Co. E, died at Chicago, Oct. 
9, 1864. 

One Hundred and Forty-seventh Regiment I. V. I. — John Kelly, Co. E, 
died at Dalton, Ga., May 7, 1865 ; W. N. Harwood, Co. E ; W.L. Seyler, Co.E. 

One Hundred and Fifty-third Regiment I. V. I. — A. Shaffer, Co. D. 

Fourth Regiment I. V. C. — W. Hurlburt, Co. . 

First Regiment Colored Cavalry — Capt. J. R. Shaffer, Co. A. 

Twelfth Iowa V. I.—D. D. Warner, Co. G. 

Third Missouri Cavalry. — J. W. Shively, Co. G; M. Shotts, Co. G; 
W. D. Thompson, Co. I. 

Seventh. Iowa Cavalry. — J. Barron, J. Antes, A. W. Lucas, N. Kohl, D. 
M. Mage. 

Fifth United States Cavalry. — Lieut. J. *J. Sweet, Co. E. 

Seventh Regiment, I. V. C. — George H. Barnes, Co. B, died at Savan- 
nah, Tenn., June 6, 1862 ; Thomas Hill, Co. B, died at Memphis, Nov. 15, 
1863; J. T. Noyes, Co. B; Capt. W. McCausland, Co. B; D. C. Stone, Co. 

G, died at Iuka, July 20, 1865. 

Eight Regiment, I. V. C. — Anthony Coppersmith, Co. G, killed Sept. 
12, 1863 ; Samuel Crane, Co. I, prisoner of war, dead ; D. Dieffenbaugh, Co. 
G, killed at Gettysburg, July 1, 1863 : Charles Mularkey, Co. M, killed at 
Manassas, Nov. 11, 1864. 

Thirteenth Regiment, I. V. C. — Samuel B. Deitzler, Co. I, died, March 

29, 1864 ; Henry A. High, Co. I, died at Memphis, Tenn. ; Henry Stude- 

baker, Co. I, died at Pine Bluff, Ark., Oct. 23, 1864 ; William Strange, Co. 
I, died at Pine Bluff, Ark., Sept. 3, 1864. John Sendlinger, Co. I, died at 
Pine Bluff, Ark., July 8, 1864. 

Fourteenth Regiment, I. V. C. — B. Breninger, Co. I, missing in action 
July 13, 1864; K. W. Chapin, Co. I, missing in action, Aug. 3, 1864; D. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 357 

M. Elliott Co. I, died at Gallipolis, Dec. 8, 1863 ; John Gogan, Co. I, missing 
in action, July 31, 1864; A. M. Gandy, Co. I, died at Bowling Green, Ky., 
Oct. 9, 1864 ; Michael Lenan, Co. I, died at Peoria, Jan. 12, 1863 ; J. 
McNichols, Co. I, missing in action, July 31, 1864 ; John S. Pickard, Co. I, 
died at Peoria, March 29, 1863 ; M. D. Rollison, Co I, missing in action, 
July 31, 1864; William H. Stewart, Co. I, died at Louisville, Aug. 10, 1863 ; 
H. Vandeberg, Co. I, missing action, July 31, 1864. 

Seventeenth Regiment, I. V. 0. — H. Bowden, Co. F, drowned at Alton, 
July 3, 1864 ; George R. Comstock, Co. M, died at Lena, July 19, 1864 ; J. 
Peterson, Co. I, accidentally killed, Dec. 12, 1864. 

Second Regiment, I. V. A. — F. Shilling, Co. E, died at Memphis, March 
20, 1863 ; Henry Williams, Co. K, died at Memphis, April 26, 1865. 

Company and Regiment Unknown. — Jasper Clingman, died — — ; Capt. 
James R. Shaffer, died at Freeport, . 

The second, or upper base, is 9x9 feet and nine feet high, and on each side 
is a niche in which is inserted a massive slab of white marble. On the south 
side, facing Stephenson street, in engraved the following, in large raised letters : 

TO THE 

HEROIC DEAD 

OF 

STEPHENSON COUNTY. 
1861-1865. 

On each of the three remaining slabs in the upper base, are engraved in 
raised letters some of the battles in which it is known that some of the soldiers of 
Stephenson County laid down their lives, as follows : Fort Donelson, Pittsburg 
Landing, Siege of Corinth, Jackson, Siege of Vicksburg, Chickamauga, Mission- 
ary Ridge, Altoona Pass, Resaca, Pea Ridge, Nashville, Kenesaw Mountain, 
Stone River, Waynesboro, Cattlet's Gap, Iuka, Aiken, Franklin, Nickajack 
Gap, Siege of Knoxville, Champion Hills, Farmington, Bentonville, Hatchie, 
Mobile. 

The shaft, 7x7 feet at base, rises 62 feet gracefully from the second base, 
tapering to three feet at the top, surmounted by a molded cap-stone, four feet 
six inches by four feet six inches, on which is poised the statue of " Victory " 
above described, thirteen feet high, making the top of the statue ninety-six feet 
from the ground. 

Early in June, 1871, the last finishing touches were given, and the Ste- 
phenson County Soldiers' Monument, beautiful in its proportions, and as endur- 
ing as the solid marble of which it is constructed, stood forth completed, an 
enduring evidence of the patriotism of the entire population of Stephenson 
County, by whom it was erected. It was resolved to dedicate the monument 
on July 4, 1871, and great preparations were made for the event. Gen. John 
M. Palmer, Governor of Illinois, agreed to deliver the dedicatory address, but, 
at the last hour, he sent a telegram that he could not come, and Gen. Smith 
D. Atkins, of Freeport, reluctantly consented to supply his place. Gen. 
Atkins spoke as follows : 

Fellow-Citizens : I have been admonished by friends, and the conflicting emotions of my 
heart, to which I cannot give utterance, admonish me now, that it is no easy task, under the 
peculiar circumstances which have induced me to appear before you, to address such an assem- 
blage on such an occasion. But I have come, not because I had any hope of doing justice to 
my subject, but because I know that you will do more than justice to me — you will be generous. 
Kneeling this day around the altar of American liberty, your hearts will throb responsive to 
the lightest touch. 



358 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

We do well to come here to-day on this anniversary of our national independence, remem- 
bering the fathers who have " gone before." We are indebted for all the liberties that we enjoy 
to those who have long since entered the " dark valley and shadow of death;" those who shall 
come after us, in the sure flight of years, will be indebted to us for the civil and religious liber- 
ties which they will enjoy. 

If we were to seek the fountain whence our liberties flow, we should be compelled to go far 
back of 1776; the Declaration of American Independence was the result of a prior moving 
cause ; on the Mayflower came the germ of liberty ; not alone to the Continental Congress, 
but to the Pilgrim Fathers are we indebted for the glories of the day we celebrate. Ideas are 
the moving causes of revolutions ; the clash of arms, the sullen roar of artillery, are but the 
means employed to an end ; deeper than that, below all that, like disembodied spirits, lie the 
ideas for which revolutions are fought. The idea, the great underlying thought upon which the 
American Revolutionary war was fought was embodied in the Declaration of American Inde- 
pendence, in these words: " We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created 
equal ; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights ; that among 
these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness ; that to secure these rights governments 
are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed." 

No grander enunciation of the rights of man had ever been put forth by any people, and 
around it crystallized the hopes of the threejnillions and a half of people composing the thirteen 
American Colonies. I wish it was in my power to draw a picture of the American Continental 
Congress, convened in the plain little red-brick building in Philadelphia, called at that time the 
State House, on the morning of July 4, 1776, when Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin 
Franklin, Roger Sherman and Robert R. Livingston, the Committee on the Declaration of Inde- 
pendence, brought in their report. With what breathless attention did the members of the 
Continental Congress listen to the reading of it. With what emotion must that Congress have 
swayed, every one of them knowing, that, if they failed in their unequal struggle with England, 
the most powerful nation on the globe, then that declaration would prove the death-warrant of 
every one* of them upon the scaffold. But they faltered not. John Hancock wrote his name 

" Dashing and bold, as if the writer meant, 
A double daring in his mind's intent." 

Stephen Hopkins, with a palsied hand, but with a fearless and patriotic heart, wrote his 
name plain enough for the minions of King George to read it ; and Charles Carroll of Carroll- 
ton, and Franklin, and Adams, and Gerry, and Rutledge, and Jefferson, and Sherman, and 
Morris, and Witherspoon — " there were giants in those days" — and, relying upon the intrinsic 
justice of their cause, and the self-evident truths of the rights of human nature that they were 
declaring, to their maintenance they mutually pledged " their lives, their fortunes, and their 
sacred honor." Well might the old bellman who sat anxiously in the steeple of the old State 
House, waiting for the word joyfully ring out the glad tidings when the Declaration of Independ- 
ence passed, on the old bell cast many years before in England, and bearing, as if by inspiration, 
this inscription, in solid metal letters : Proclaim Liberty to all the land, and to all the inhab- 
itants thereof. Aye, Liberty ! That old bell is ringing yet, and millions hear it. The last of 
all those who were there have long since been "gathered to their fathers," but their work lives 
after them and yet shall live. Time shall not dim it. The glories of the Cross of Calvary shall 
pale away and fade from the remembrance of men as soon as the moral grandeur and sublimity 
of that declaration shall be dimmed. While the memories of Washington and Warren survive, 
while there is one man to honor the memories of John Hampden and Algernon Sydney, while 
there is one human heart groaning beneath oppression, and throbbing with the love of freedom, 
the Declaration of American Independence will stand a beacon light to beckon on to liberty. 

In February, 1861, Abraham Lincoln, after his election by the people as President of the 
Republic, stood upon the steps of the old State House in Philadelphia, on the very spot where 
Liberty was proclaimed by our Revolutionary Fathers in 1776, and uttered these memorable 
words : 

" I have often inquired of myself what idea or principle it was that kept the Confederacy 
so long together. It was something in the Declaration of Independence giving liberty, not 
only to the people of this country, but hope to the world for all future time. It was that which 
gave promise, that, in due time, the weight should be lifted from the shoulders of all men, and 
that all should have an equal chance. Now, my friends, can this country be saved upon this 
basis ? If it can, I will consider myself one of the happiest men in the world if I can help to 
save it. But if this country cannot be saved without giving up that principle, I was about to 
say, I would rather be assassinated upon the spot than to surrender it." 

They are memorable words. Great, noble Lincoln, how tenaciously he clung to the idea of 
liberty — which inspired the Pilgrim Fathers on the Mayflower ; to which our fathers clung through- 
out all their colonial history ; the one idea and siugie thought of the Continental Congress of 
d776 ; the heart, the soul, the life, of the Declaration of American Independence, looking forward 
to the future, the clouds of civil war gathering in the South, as if inspired with a foresight to see 
the bloody ending of his self-sacrificing devotion to the cause of liberty, Abraham Lincoln pro- 
claimed himself the willing sacrifice ! But could the nation have seen the bitter dregs of the cup 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 359 

that he was destined to quaff, with what agony would every face have been turned heavenward, 
and millions of supplications gone to the great throne on high : "Father, if it be possible, let this 
cup pass." But — and thank God — before the idol of the nation was called upon to drink that 
bitter cup, before the foreshadowed prophesy was fulfilled, the idea of liberty had triumphed 
over slavery, and the blood of the martyred Lincoln sealed the deed of freedom forever. Toll, 
solemn bells; weep, ye worshipers around Liberty's altar; the disciple, the prophet, Abraham 
Lincoln, of the people and by the people best beloved, amid the nation's tears, even on the top 
wave of the nation's victory, has gone from earth, called by the Great Jehovah to " come up 
higher." 

In that terrible struggle, foreshadowed by Abraham Lincoln as he stood upon the steps of 
the old State House in Philadelphia, have gone down into the " dark valley and shadow of death" 
the immortal heroes in whose honor the grateful patriotism of the people of Stephenson County 
has erected that marble column. Honoring, as we ought and do, the Revolutionary heroes, never 
can we forget those brave men who, in the late war, have died that their country might live. At 
the story of their heroism, our hearts swell with pride, and, at the story of their sufferings, our 
hearts melt into tears. Sometimes I wonder if the American people will ever forget what they 
felt when the news was flashed over the wires that the South Carolinians had fired upon Fort 
Sumter. I wonder if all the people of the good old Northland will forget that great uprising, 
party ties broken, party sunk in patriotism, when President Lincoln called for troops, and the 
voice of the mighty Douglas rang through the land, declaring that he who was not for his country 
in such an hour was against his country, and all the people resolved that the stars and stripes 
should again float over Sumter — aye, should "greet the morning sunlight and kiss the last rays 
of the setting sun," not alone above the brick and mortar of that old fort, but everywhere 
throughout all this broad land, should unfold its bright stripes and gleaming stars — the symbol of 
liberty, and the shield and protection of American citizenship. Have the citizens of Freeport 
forgotten the Sabbath-day meeting for enlisting soldiers, held here on our public square? Have 
you forgotten the meetings held in all your schoolhouses, when the prairies were all alive with 
patriotic ardor, and the fife and drum were beating up recruits ? Have you forgotten how a free 
people, living in a government "of the people, and by the people, and for the people," with a 
common impulse, rallied to the defense of their imperiled country? How grand it was — some- 
thing to be remembered always, and to be proud of always. How like a mighty dream it all 
appears to us now, as we look back upon the past. And afterward, when the three-years troops 
were called for, how the heroes of the Republic came pouring into the camps — the farmer from 
his plow, the mechanic from his shop, the merchant from his store, the lawyer from his office — 
by ones, by dozens, by fifties and by hundreds, until companies, and regiments, and brigades, 
and divisions, and corps, with banners flying, and bugles blaring, and drums beating, were march- 
ing to the front, singing as they went, 

" We are springing to the call of our brothers gone before, 
Shouting the battle-cry of Freedom; 
And we'll fill the vacant ranks with a million freemen more, 
Shouting the battle-cry of Freedom." 

Grand and glorious as was the great uprising of the North in the early summer of 1861 , grander still 
was the swelling and growing volume of the nation's patriotism, as it swelled and rose higher 
and higher with the nation's need. Our good President called for three hundred thousand 
soldiers, and the people answered his call; then he called for three hundred thousand more, and 
the patriotic people answered back to the President, 

" We are coming, Father Abraham, 
Six hundred thousand strong." 

It is an accepted doctrine of the Christian Church that "God gives strength according to its 
need," and in His wise providence battalion after battalion poured into the camps, until the 
maxim of Napoleon, "God is on the side of the heaviest battalions," did not seem so irreverent 
as it is usually regarded ; and the apothegm of the ancients, " Whom God would destroy he first 
makes mad," appeared to be exemplified in the mad-cap South. I believe that it is ever true 
that "God is on the side of the right," and, while we give those soldiers who have died for their 
country more praise than tongue of mine can tell, we ought still to raise our hearts in thankful- 
ness and praise to the "God of battles," without whose blessing no cause can long prosper, and 
who can hold an army in the hollow of His hand. 

I cannot dwell upon the history of the late war; time will not permit me to pronounce the 
fitting words of praise due our dead heroes for their heroic deeds upon all the battle-fields for 
the Union ; the people of Stephenson County and of the Northwest need not be told of them — 
they know of them already, and they cherish the memories of them in their hearts. 

When will the American people forget Washington and the Revolutionary heroes, who upheld 
the starry banner of the Republic that was born in revolution and baptized in blood? When 
will we forget those whose names are graven on yonder tablets, the "boys in blue; " who, in 
1861, 1862, 1863, 1864 and 1865, enlisted in our army to bear that standard sheet on high? 
Side by side with the heroes of the Revolution will their names go down in history, never more 
to be forgotten. 



360 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

To whom do we owe it that we have a country to-day? to whom but to those who. with heart 
vand brain and stalwart arm, upheld the flag? To tbe loyal men and women of America, to those 
who went to the front and to those who remained at home, are we this day indebted for the 
security and peacefulness of our firesides and for the liberty we enjoy; but most of all to those 
gallant heroes, in memory of whom that marble monument has been erected ; who, standing 
"between their loved homes and war's desolations," have died for their country. Do all that we 
may or can, we never shall be able to repay more than a trifling moiety of the great debt of grat- 
itude and love we owe to those heroes who have gone to that 

" Undiscovered country 
From whose bourne no traveler returns." 

Build them monuments of marble, surmounted with statues of " Victory ;" cut their names 
in enduring tablets of stone; tell of their heroic deeds in story, and sing of them in song; 
keep their memories green in our hearts forevermore, .and yet we will not pay one half of the 
great debt of gratitude and love we owe. The liberties secured to their country by the sacrifice 
of their lives, they themselves cannot enjoy ; for you and for me, and for those who will come 
after us, they have died. Long after that massive marble monument has moldered into dust, 
their memories will live; the generations to follow us will honor them even more than we 
honor them now. Think you that while there remains one human heart that loves liberty their 
memories will perish ? No. Hundreds of years ago, Leonid is and his band of Spartan soldiers 
went down in the defense of the Pass of Thermopylas, but forevermore, among every people 
in whose language there can be found a word to express liberty, those dead heroes will be 
remembered. Those whose memories we seek to perpetuate by that marble pile were the 
defenders of our Thermopylae, not like Leonidas and his Spartan soldiers, doomed to defeat in 
honorable death, but victory, overwhelming and complete, has crowned their heroism. Fitly 
do we place the statue of " Victory " on the monument the grateful patriotism of all the people 
of Stephenson County has erected to their memory. Never on earth can they answer roll-call again. 

" On Fame's eternal camping-ground 
Their silent tents are spread, 
And glory guards with solemn round, 
The bivouac of the dead." 

Engraven deeply on those marble tablets are the names of nearly seven hundred of the 

gallant heroes of Stephenson County, who went out to the defense of their country, and came 

not back again. And yet they were but a handful in the great sacrificial offering that liberty 

demanded and received. « w . , . .. . 

•' Four hundred thousand men, 

The brave, the good, the true, 
On battle plain, in prison pen, 

Have died for me and you. 
Four hundred thousand of the brave, 
Have made our loyal soil their grave, 

For me and you ; 
Kind friend, for me and you." 

Dedicating this day that colossal marble monument to the memories of the gallant dead of 
Stephenson County, let us thank God for the glowing patriotism that gave to the nation its 
heroic defenders, and reverently ask His blessing upon the work which they have accomplished. 

The following are buried in the cemeteries about Freeport : Gen. J. W. 
Shaffer; Cols. H. Putnam, T. J. Turner, C. T. Dunham and John A. Davis ; 
Capts. S. W. Field, James R. Shaffer and James W. Crane ; Majs. Will- 
iam McKim and Elisha Schofield ; Lieuts. M. R. Thompson, H. A. 
Sheets, T. M. Hood and Emil Neese, Elias Diffenbaugh, Joseph Degon, 
Samuel Ailey, R. C. Swain, M. D., H. Broadie, Mortimer Snow, Joseph 
Cavanagh, Eli M. Ketchum, James Daniels, Max Lambrecht, Lawrence Fisher, 
Anton Bauer, James Jordan, L. Bentlj, J. W. Sinlinger, David McCormick, 
James C. McCarthy, William Haggart, Sidney Haggart, William Eddy, John 
Bortsfield, Charles Gramp, Joseph Maxwell, Jacob Backers, Van Reason, 
Fred Shilling, Aaron S. Best, Milton S. Weaver, Thomas Mullarkey, Lary 
Paten and Andrew Bartlett. 

" Winds of summer, Oh ! whisper low, 
Over the graves where the daisies grow. 
Blossoming flowers and songs of bees, 
Sweet ferns tossed in the summer's breeze — 
Floating shadows and golden lights, 
Dewy mornings and radiant nights — 
All the bright and beautiful things 
That gracious and bountiful summer brings, 
Fairest and sweetest that earth can bestow 
Brighten the graves where the daisies grow." 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



361 



STATEMENT OF AGRICULTURAL STATISTICS, 1879. 



Corn 

Winter wheat 

Spring wheat 

Oats 

Apple- 

Peaches 

Vineyards (wine) 

Timothy 

Clover 

Prairie 

Hungarian and millet 

Rye 

Barley 

Buckwheat 

Beans 

Irish potatoes 

Sweet potatoes 

Tobacco 

Broom corn 

Flax (fiber) 

Sorgo (sirup) 

Turnip and other root crops 

Other fruits and berries 

Other crops not named above 

Pasture 

Woodland 

Uncultivated land 

Area city and town real estate (not included 
above) 



77,851 acres. 

9,436 " 
12,069 " 
35,622 " 

2,934 " 



15,118 

12,785 

5,783 

67 

9,826 

11,456 

193 

41 

1,715 

3 

148 

40 

2,156 

21 

27 

24 

38 

49,070 

23,360 

9,867 

733 



3,045, 
236, 
119 

1,287 
17 



183 
26.6 

2 

141 

296 
61 
16 

2 

$79 



576 bushels. 
149 " 
776 " 
644 " 
479 " 
7 " 
405 gallons. 
,443 tons. 
,620 " 
,457 " 
173 " 
,911 bushels. 
,830 " 
421 " 
329 " 
,834 " 
217 " 
911 pounds. 
395 " 
805 " 
363 gallons. 
065 (value.) 
650 " 
340 " 



Total number of acres 280,399 aores. 

Number of sheep killed by dogs 265 

Total value sheep killed by dogs $926 

Number pounds wo »1 shorn 62,956 

Number fat sheep sold 2,430 

Total gross weight fat sheep sold 240,265 

Number cows kept 2,972 

Pounds butter sold 804,971 

Pounds cheese soM 3,711 

Gallons cream sold 4,173 

Gallons milk sold 69,685 

Number colts foaled .- 944 

Number horses died, any age 405 

Number fat cattle sold ." 3,880 

Total gross weight fat cattle sold 4,209,978 

Number fat hogs sold 43,153 

Total gross weight fat hogs sold 10,764,977 

Number hogs and pigs died of cholera 25,652 

Total gross weight of swine died of cholera 1,811,748 

Number bushels timothy seed 1,269 

Number bushels clover seed 12,607j 

Number bushels Hungarian and millet seed 209 

Number bushels flax seed 14,781 

Number pounds grapes 5,348 



362 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

















■ - 


: co oo 




: O r^ 










: o oo r- 


: o 




; 


: cm m 




. o t- 




«l 


■^ 






: co 




• o 


: co r- 




:^< t- 


O 


^ 
















: ** 














- 


O r D 




: o i^ 


Q 






















o 


3$ 






: ■* 












CO 




















o 










■ CO 












s 


S 

5 


> 






















\ . 












N 


: i\ 






^ 


















oco 
































H" 






: ih co 


• e> 






H 






CD 






















lOt-^WNCIM 


CD *c* C: rH rM ID (O (M 




5 "3 

<> 


Ci 




























o 




€^t 








m 
















CO 




OMS3(S*».X 






a 

m 

> 

S 














CO 




Tf C t- CO CS .- CC 


O 'J. 'ZTj cv ~ O CI oo 












s 


t& 








t& 


•B 








\o 


^ 






























-J 






CM 


00 i— 1 CS1 i-Hr- 


•* 












► ■a 


OSOIOWC^HOMOOMCHCMOCii 


J CO 




OcCOOlOiOHtOiOCO^^MlNCftiOtD? 
















«? 




!>^»©r- lCO>0»ClOO^flO«OCOO»OC5COJr' 








mCO^^fNt^CDCONXWNCOXiN^r 








oj tji co cm to n ^ r. cd i< h _. _j cm so t-- so c 




Z 


s 


tD H H H r-. W v r- X - ^ C N C _ CO t- CS C 










HW^^^OTf^H«HfOMfO<llNtN(MO 




"■! 
E* 
O 


> 




CD 


S-S 


N«C^03N*NCO^^iObt"H 








010(Nr)(COt-Hr- I 00 CO O0 O — CO iO 


CO c- 


1 CO 










09 






















< 




CO 














IC 


























































o 








































-<t> 










ec 






















CO 


R 
































m 












c 


































o 




























































1 •< 






































•4 


> 


































o 

PS 

< 




3* 






























O to 

23 










CO 






















CD 
CD 


ih 










r- 






















t- 




xj 










































o a> j- 


00 




i"3 


00 SO OS ^ r— O SO 


~r .cnOH 










rH ' Ci CO ■<*< iO 


(N co a 














a 
z 




G£ 












O - o r— 3 x 


t- c; r- 


00 






oo . co co in co 








© 
































Q 

> 

o 
a 
ft. 

a 

5 


03 
> 


€&*" 






£ 


=> to 








co cm «: 


in 


~c 


(N iO O) O H (M X 




: TT ■* — r-< 






0) 




N :■-■*•** o 


^ -*< cr 


CO 






















CM CM CO t- <— 


• Ol CO IO 




CO 




<3 


















^ 


r--Tj<^.T*cJsOTti3'_ t" C if, tJ< CN C t^ iC cr 


OJ 




-Jt-HOJi-C'Heooecic^rt^siioccrt 


t- 








« 




S& r-l 






,._,.-.- /. ; i - ■ i - — -v ~ x - - ■ r-> ~ iO -P * 








CM 






co oo t- o w tm* c. ■. -f so' so r- oj so ■* t- oc 






3 






« 






£ 






a 
a 

> 
o 
« 
ft. 

a 


G& 


!» 


O m 






S c 


CiOCN'fXiOCCrHOOiOKr-Cr-iC^rHiO 


CD 






^'^r-cOCCDiCr-CCOOCXtOrtiCOCft 


1 ■* 




0) 


MO^^'X'Nur .. .^•tii; _ -t« oo so cs oo 
iO cm *r f- co to os t- •*- -* x so so oo ^f c* oo ic 






CO 




co o> m n o m « HHaHOi-Hr-Nt- 








1 CO 




73 








M 






























25 

O 
H 


c 

1 


g 
cS 
l- 
c 
h-: 


a 

■~ 
o 


5 

X — 


3 [^ 

3 « .w 

C6 £ ~ 
cs 8 

.M ^ " 
OS? 
O eS £ 




fig 


pin § >■ 
7 — — 

- K S 


- 
c 

03 


o : 
u . 

^ -■ 

m S 

o 1' 

« 5 




■3 

H 




1 


1-1 


(M 


03 


<* 


ie 


co 


r- 


00 


0! 




(M CO 


-f 


u- 


x 


b- 


X 





00 



X 


^•3 


1 WffiO^CllMCSCrtf-i^'CCh-'MrOOOO 
H O O (M 31 H C! (N (M H H Ol C - C N C M 

1 €© 







CO^CSCNiOt-COf- 
COr- (OOiO'S'OSt-T 
CO C SO X JO t- O b 
1— CO OJ (M CM CO CM 

CO -*~CT) r-Tf- 0~t^ C 
CO SO 00 CM CS SO r- c 
r-ir-SOr-ICOCOCOs: 
^ CM CM Ol CM CO CN 


* "O rH O C 

* CO CM CS C 
•tCt-CMt 

CO rH CC C 


3 CO <0 CM CM 3 

: r. x x to co 

-:ohoo(D 

CO H« -h CO CO CO 

•J 3 rr r- 3 so O 

- X hi OJ tC 3 Ol 

"5 r- O ** C Ci CO 
•J CO H- _ CM CM CM 


10 

X 

-- 

.7 

10 

aa 
1 


CO C - " 
X ^* t- u 
OC' iO X c 
CM H CM C 


ftl 
S 
H 
E 


<>> 


CM O O O CO O O 

c c 


;OCSrHCOC 3 O O O O 

;OOOOSC — C — OC 



r 

55 


"3 
6 


OSOH^H-M 
1-1 t- O CM CO CO CO 
iO i-< CM 1- CM CM JT- 

~SO CO r-^& U5 "O~C0~ 
OS t- iO CM SO (M CO 
ttl H CM b- IN W t- 


O iO t-0' so OS to r~* OS CO Tp: 

TT rH CO OJ TT OS lO CMiCJCO 

OSSCtOiOt^TTCO ~t-CO 

O IC"CX) OO" OS~«0 rH so~co -^ 
-* r- CJ CO -H- 3 iO CI iO GO 

eft «o io 10 1- 10 ec ct-co 


M 

CD 
C-l 

7 

CM 


•< 
Q 

Z 
•< 

a 
1-9 
t> 
S 


£"3 


OOSt-COCOSOHt-iOOiCiCOO — ^- — t-Tt* 
OCOQOSOCOOOCOOOr-i-HC CHCCCOi- 

«C(NHMCOSOOOHiOCO»OtNiCr-^»C^ 
O^COCMCOO^WCOCOCMOltMCMrtCOCOCMcM 


c 

i 


CO 

3 

"3 


lOiOOOiOiOOOOOiOOMCC 0»OiO 
tOHrHCOCNOKMCn^t-CO^sr't'tC?)^ 
ih OO iC SO CO (N H CO iC iC X X iN X C5 iC CO 


'X 




«OSSOC<l^cK)C»I^OSCNOcOCOSc;t-t-(rOiC 

H 11 (N CO •* K (N p- CMC0C0C0CM-MCMCO 


00 

CO 

9 


a 
- 

<! 

E" 

<1 
B 

Z 




iCONOHiOCDtDCTiCCCOSOCIMt-^COr- 

t-oeoiococNsDosooooior-iO x-rr-soooco 
Noocot-r-toJ>o»fj'COift«ftt , 't-t-<o»o 

0» 


CD 
03 

CD 
*c 


3 

"3 
> 


so so iCCMsor-b-r-tcocz: — : 1 vm -^ :j r- ■— < 

CNCMCOlOSClCOCOOO^rHCr- T. "M OSOCO 

COOHt«OHOOXN'*COM:i'OiON 

t'TfOSO-^iOiO'^COSOr-iOCMCSr-CMCOCM 

r* CN r-t CM 1- 1 1-* W W r- r- 1— 1-1 pH i-n 


CO 

10 

^H 
CM 

M 

m 


6 


■*c-]sot-t-ooffiicsccsc't-r-::::f-x^ 
x i:- ~ cs oi so ~ «c to -f so 3 — co r— x -+ 1 

— 1- -rjH 1— ' O -^ OS rf CO »— ■ r- SO CO »o C tO OS CM 
1— IfHCMCMCOCMrH IN H H CM CM CM H f l H CM 


CO 

g 

CO 


K 
O 

H 


^■3 


^rtsoHso-cwt-OHjf'Ostfit-itjaeo 
icr-ic#J>HCsasi-cocc»coo^oocs!D 

iHCOCSSOiOCOSOiC^COCMi- 3 C SOCMOOCM 

c- :: ci cm co -t m 01 :i ci m ?j 01 re cm co cm cm 


00 

CD 
CM 


CD 

"3 

> 


c: co> 0". 01 ire i - to x 0. •- c r: — — x <- co »o 

CO 00 00 CM t— SO CI so CI C t- I- CI "* iO *o OS 

CM"OCOt^Hr-CSCOC l t- , *OOWOCMH'^t- 

C/^ 00 CO OS C CS iC Ol CO CS k0' OS i~ CI ~ SO SO r-l 

rHHH«HHp-H H ^- r- CM — r-H rH r-i 


CM 

CD 

QQ 

CC 
CM 


6 


HiOCMt-CMiOCMt'h.t-inHCrtCO^COH 
SO Tji CM Tt< ^ ir: CJ5 t- CM O t- Ol c: ^* OS O SO CM 
CMiOSO^COOOtO^t-TtiSOOSt-t-COUOiCiO 


to 

CO 



iJ 

►J 

-« 

E- 
O 
E- 


i"3 


so : 

CM : 

SO • 

t- : 
^ • 


SO SO iC t- id CM CO 
ih SO CM CM t- O CM 

O cm cm r- 10 ■* 00 
co O r— -^ »o CO rj» 

r- CM 


SO r f O C6 H 
CO ■** CM rn i-4 IO CO 

CM CO OS OS tr- CO OO 

r- i.c — to to co ^ 


IO 

00 

CD 


cp 

_3 

■3 

> 


co ; 

00 * 

CO • 

s& : 


C O SO uO CS to O 
CO 00 r-< CM O. C X. 
HCOiCOCOOlH 
IO CM r-l CO CO ri SO 
CM IO O 
CO 


TH C H HI O CO IO 

SO X CO 3 -51 t- CM 

CM CO r- — t- iO ir- 

OS tH CC CM OS 3 OS 
r*H CM CM CM rH 


CD 
OD 

CM 
7 


$ 



►J 


: 
»o : 


■^ CO CO Tf SO SO X) 
SOHHSOt-iOCM 
CM t- CO r-l 
CO 


SO' CI CO -f OJ «* CO 

SO X SO t- SO tO CO 
CO CM CO rH rH 


CO 



CD 
CD 

03 
CD 

7 


O 
►J 

a 
< 



5"S 


^ ' 








: qs 

• CM 

: -^ 




















^ 1 










: 

:-^ 
:os 




















Q 

0: 

7 


? 
J 












: so 

: 00 




















00 

00 


TOWNS. 


c 
c 
( 

a 

r- 


: a 

c r 
Si 


i 

1- 

a 

> 

'7 


< 

5 


c 

r= 


c '■ 

2 
.- a 

B © 
r: Ih 


[ 

■r 


£ 




- 

c 

pi 

1 


1 

S 


| 

i 

IB 


. a 
: > 

• c 
: u 

•£'- 

it 


c 


1 


"3 


H 






'" 


CM CO 


t 


IT 


sc 


^CO 


0" 


c 




c 


r- 


-f 


ie — 


I- 


oc 







HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



363 





Patent 
Rights 

Value. 




:::::: o ; 
: ; • : : : c • 






: : o 
: : © 

: : r^ 




Fran- 
chises. 

Value. 




:::::: o : 
: : : : : :co : 

i ; i i i 1" i 






• : =° 

: . co 

: : co 

: : a* 




a 

z 

■4 

z s 

o . 

S 5 
8 c 
S c 

« 


■5 "3 


#22 77 
23 95 

15 72 
10 69 

13 39 
10 11 
20 62 

14 74 
17 35 

16 38 
8 79 

17 63 
8 77 

29 82 

18 33 
23 70 
12 03 
20 18 

$16 66 




- d 


82(15 
575 
173 
139 
696 
445 
495 

1430 
486 
294 
255 

1411 
537 

1923 
440 
806 
409 
545 

810264 




d 

1 fc 


— -r r- c: c i -r -r i - x x © ~ r- r- -h -* -r r- — 




w 

K 
PS 
o 
fc. 

Z 

«! 


^ 


8 

7(1 (ill 
33 75 
21 20 

45 00 
33 25 

46 43 
43 97 
38 21 
25 00 
45 00 
56 61 
21 25 
55 00 
55 00 
50 00 
40 00 
66 67 

844 (13 




<3> 

1 


8 

' 70 

270 

212 

45 

266 

325 

7915 

535 

25 

90 

1925 

85 

220 

no 

50 
120 

200 

812403 




d 


■HKCHXt-Ci'Hjm'i'N^nW CO 
', rH CO rH CO CO 
; t-, <M 




w £ 

a u 
'£.£ 

GO 


5 3 

<> 

"3 


io 30r-icNi©rHr-©©r 

^ : c ■; x ai :i j: oi - 
-r- :<: xot- o t- co r- <i 

rH r-> co 


7 74 

7 49 

4 97 

8 39 

5 75 
5 87 
5 67 
7 88 

$0 50 




883 
2062 

712 
1737 

691 

704 
1113 

883 

819964 




6 
Z 


63 
128 
124 

130 
187 
115 
108 
642 
159 
88 
114 
275 
143 
2( 17 
120 
130 
196 
112 

3041 




J3 c 
OS 


«S 


SI 09 
1 36 
1 93 
1 67 
1 23 
1 62 

1 02 
3 96 

2 11 

1 27 

2 85 
2 59 
1 01 
1 63 
1 25 
1 04 
1 15 

1 13 

2 14 




_3 

13 
r- 


S 104 
249 
4(12 
416 
328 
594 
234 

4911 
484 
196 
334 

1445 
267 
643 
233 
228 
357 
216 

$11641 




No. 

95 
183 

208 

265 
306 
228 
1238 
229 
154 
117 
556 
262 
393 
186 
219 
309 
190 

6446 




<8 c 


5 3 

< > 


Si 2 05 

14 (id 

15 94 
8 70 

15 17 

11 84 
17 10 
22 12 

14 57 

13 72 

17 09 

12 07 
12 77 

15 72 
12 81 

14 38 

15 07 

18 06 

814 91 






I 
r» 


$1795 
3462 

4734 
3334 
6177 
4324 
5868 
10884 
4925 
2636 
4255 
6895 
4585 
8100 
3012 
3638 
5594 
3560 

$87718 




d 


124 
2:^7 
297 
383 

403 
305 
343 
492 
338 
192 
249 
544 
359 
515 
235 
253 
357 
197 

5883 




.£3 
O 

"5 SB 

^£ 

s 

5 


> "a 
<> 


: : : © : o : o : 
:::=:=: «o ; 

: s : o '• io '• ih '• 

ee : : : : : 






© CO 

© i- 

© CO 

N 4g 




. 1 : : :o :«j : u> : 

a> : : : ^ : : ^ : 
3 i : : : • :<•*:: 
<s 1 : : : : : — : : 
f> • : • : : ■ : 
1 (& : : : : : : 






c5 co 




5 1 ; ; :- rt i rt -g ; ; 

*5 1 : : : : ! : 






c; 




<= 3 
<s ? 


5*3 


: : : — : o : » © o 

. j j IO . CM jCfiOO 

: : : co 'en • *- o o 

: : — : ^ ; ?i ,-m c-i 


09 IZ 

00 SS 
00 88 

00 61 
09 9 

00 OS 
0* I* 




"3 
r» 




#_ 


: t- : co ; o o o 
. o . OS : O Ol C-l 

: : : ?t 


: a o co o • co o i co 

. O0 OJ CO CO - CO O 1ft 

: o : rH o 

1 i s 




: <m ; io : <n i— r-< 


; CO i-H ir; O] ; r-^l r- 
; t— < ; •# 




P 

as 

os 3 


<l 


OS A I 

99 091 

(1(1 1)01 
Oil 'j". 


: >n : 

' co : 

: o ; 


: 3) : o 
:° :*° 

I *- : rH 


: » 
: = 
: co 
: ?i 




to 

3 

"3 


: ; 4Tj o : • • »o io 
■ . ci z; . : : r« co 

: : - 1 r* : : : o 

: : : : " 




: uo : co 


: co 

CO 

: © 

i ^ 




o 


: — •* : : : o cvj : 


: >* : 


: r- : •a 


: i in 


1 


1 


5 

i 


c - 

S 3 

-. - 


:S -£c ■ = : 

■^ - '■ 3 cv *; ■ : 

3 . -*-> w ? o a . 

mmu 

faco««JfeW« r 

cc -* u; » t' oo oi o f 


: a / 
i o 3 

: P< a : 

3 ■ "E ' 

h 01 c- - 


\ : . > : 

. . o • 

D ■ t- • . 

-•-C : 

SQtfOr* 

- ic - b- 3( 


: ■ 














364 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



POPULATION OF THE COUNTY BY TOWNSHIPS FOR THE CENSUS YEAR 1880. 



Rock Grove 

Harlem 

Lancaster 

Kent 

Ridott 

Winslow 

West Point 

Lena Village 

Buckeye — 

Erin 

Florence 

Oneco (including villages). 

Dakota 

Silver Creek 

Loran 

Rock Run, 1st District 

Rock Run, 2d District , 

Jefferson 

Freeport, 1st Ward 

Freeport, 2d Ward 

Freeport, 3d Ward 

Totals 



Population. 



1,071 

1,3a 

1,173 
1,214 
2,014 
1,004 
1,224 
1,520 
1,655 

761 
1,201 
1,579 

887 
1,312 
1,251 
1,172 
1,030 

651 
2,863 
2,287 
3,371 



30,561 



167 
179 
186 
172 
298 
124 
192 
8 
206 
114 
171 
198 
109 
188 
170 
113 
155 
94 



13 



2,857 



11 

10 

8 

14 

25 

4 

15 

12 

17 

8 

5 

17 

16 

9 

5 

23 

6 

6 

40 

23 

41 



315 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 365 



FREEPORT. 

The history of the city of Freeport is the history of most of the cities 
which to-day dot the landscape of the great Northwest. Though not entirely 
devoid of varied and romantic incidents, which stimulated or dismayed the pio- 
neers in other portions of the country, the settlement of the city was made at 
a date when hair-breadth 'scapes from the Indians were facts which had passed 
into history and became as a tale that is told. The Black Hawk war closed, 
the treacherous savages had been transferred to distant reservations, and 
the fertile and beautiful region was one vast solitude, the songs of birds and the 
murmurs of the rippling streams alone breaking the silence. At rare intervals 
an "Indian trader" appeared upon the scene, a circuit rider traversed the ter- 
ritory, or a small band of Indians, who had evaded the watchfulness of the 
authorities, were attracted to the homes the} 7 had once prized so dearly, and 
yielded up only when conquered and banished. 

But, while there were no desperate struggles for life or liberty with the sav- 
ages, no days of unrequited toil in felling forests and wresting scant returns 
from the soil, the early settlers were endowed with that self-reliance, energy and 
character which have developed the country, builded the cities, created avenues 
of trade and won for Freeport the very pronounced prosperity she enjoys to-day. 

The city of Freeport is h.-mdsomely situated on the Pecatonica River, about 
30 miles from its mouth, 121 miles from Chicago, 118 miles from Milwaukee, 67 
miles from Dubuque and 35 miles east of the Mississippi River. The Pecaton- 
ica forms the north and east boundaries of the city, with the surface of the 
ground on which it is built sloping gently in the direction of the river, and well 
laid out into streets and avenues, perfectly shaded, and lined with residences 
and business houses which attract the attention of visitors and residents, not 
more for their architectural finish than their substantial character. 

A portion of the territory which now constitutes Lancaster Township was 
settled a short time prior to Freeport, by Benjamin Goddard, who made a claim 
to land that is at present known as the Furst farm, between Freeport and 
Cedarville. Mr. Goddard was accompanied by his family, also a brother, John 
Goddard (deceased), and John Jewell. Mrs. Goddard is known as the first 
white woman who ventured into Lancaster Township. This was early in the 
the month of December, 1835. He built a cabin and practically began the 
battle for existence before the new year dawned, dividing possession of this por- 
tion of the county with no one until the arrival of William Baker, who came 
soon after and laid the foundation of the present city by the erection of an 
"Indian trading-post" at the mouth of the creek. 

Mr. Baker settled in La Fayette County, Wis., some years previous to the 
date above mentioned, which proved, however, a "pent-up Utica," contracting 
the powers of his restless and untiring energies, and first in 1827, while looking 
for a more extended field of eifort, he came to the banks of the Pecatonica. He 
readily appreciated the possibilities of the situation ; the broad prairies presented 
fields that required but energy and industry to render fruitful ; acres of timber 
that would supply fuel, fencing, and material for the construction of temporary 
houses, while Pecatonica River would furnish the motive power for both grist 
and saw mills. Impressed with the opportunities afforded by the surround- 
ings, Mr. Baker determined to secure possession of this favorable location, 
confident that settlers would be attracted to a spot promising so many advan- 



366 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY, 

tages to those seeking their fortunes in the "Far West.'-' The patient watch 
and vigil long required to wrest a rich return of golden grain from Mother 
Earth, the enterprise and skill indispensable to make the rushing waters the 
slave of man's will, the brains to plan, and energy to successfully conduct, enter- 
prises of moment which render a community prosperous — belong to the type of 
men of which the early settlers of Stephenson County were a true index, and 
with the advent of one of whom the settlement at Freeport was begun. 

Timbers for the Indian trading-post above mentioned were cut and prepared 
with surprising rapidity by Mr. Baker and his son, jor on the 24th of Decem- 
ber, 1835, the frame was shaped, its raising accomplished, and rendered inhabit- 
able before the close of the year. This unpretentious and primitive tenement 
contained but one room, and the most limited of modern conveniences, 
furnished a hospitable shelter to many of those who came afterward and iden- 
tified themselves with the country. During the winter, which was cold and 
dreary, with little to encourage the settlers but hope in the future, Mr. Baker, 
assisted by Benjamin Goddard, prepared the materials for a home for his 
family, which remained in Wisconsin, pending his return thither. The house 
was built by Benjamin Goddard, a man named George Whiteman working with 
him in a subordinate capacity. Whiteman was a character who is well 
remembered by the early residents of those days. A man without principle, 
courage or industry, he led a jack-leg sort of a life, endured by the settlers 
until his felonies became too frequent and pronounced, culminating in the theft 
of horses from Hugh Mack, who resided at the mouth of the river, when he was 
run out of the country. 

It should be observed that Mr. Baker had made claim to all the territory 
where Freeport now stands, in the possession of which he was associated with 
William Kirkpatrick and W. T. Galbraith, composing a company known under 
the title of "Baker, Kirkpatrick, Galbraith & Co.," organized for the purpose 
of developing the resources of the country, attracting emigration and building 
the city. 

The rude cabin of logs, built by Mr. Baker on the banks of the Pecatonica, 
was the first house erected in the future city, and this was followed by that put 
up under the supervision of Benjamin Goddard. It was of hewn logs, "raised" 
into local prominence by Miller Preston, Joseph Van Scoit, Fred Baker and 
others, completed for occupation in February, 1836, and for many years was 
the only public house in Freeport. Having thus provided the ways and means 
for protection to his family, Mr. Baker returned to Wisconsin, accompanied by 
Benjamin Goddard and a yoke of oxen and wagon, owned by the latter, for the 
purpose of removing his family to the new home. The trip was long and 
fatiguing, through a wilderness inhabited by savages and wild beasts, at a sea- 
son of the year when the unsatisfactory manner of travel was augmented by 
inconvenience and the lack of comforts accessible even at that early day, and the 
result was that spring had yielded place to summer before the journey was com- 
pleted, and the site of the city honored by the presence of a white woman, 
Mrs. Baker being the first white woman to settle there. 

Early in this year the town was laid out in the north part of the southeast 
portion of Section 31, which was subsequently removed, however, for the fol- 
lowing reason : When the Indians disposed of their title to the lands in this 
portion of the country, certain tracts were reserved to the half-breeds, to be 
selected in any part of the unoccupied territory they might choose. As soon 
as it became known that Baker, Kirkpati'ick, Galbraith & Co. had laid out a 
town, Mary Myott located her claim on this section of land, which constrained 



s 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 369 

the town builders to remove their stakes to a point further west, comprehended 
in that portion of the city now bounded by Winslow, Broadway, part of Locust, 
Oak and Chicago streets and the Illinois Central track. This section, after the 
removal was made, continued to lie idle and unimproved for many years, until 
John A. Clark and some other gentlemen obtained title to it, and laid out the 
Winneshiek Addition, by which it is now known, since when it has become one 
of the most desirable portions of the city for residence purposes. 

When the time arrived for setting the stake for the county seat, those who 
had been instrumental in aiding the claimant to perfect her title to the land in 
this beautiful portion of the township, were refused a hearing when they sought 
to have the county seat established in the village first laid out, and subsequently, 
these officious intermeddlers were escorted to the borders of the county whence 
they were invited to depart, with the assurance that, if they returned, hospit- 
able graves would welcome their coming. 

The season of 1836 witnessed a limited number of arrivals with a view to 
settle permanently in the proposed city; the larger proportion of those who 
came, however, remained but a brief period at Freeport — or, as it was then 
known, Winneshiek — before departing to other portions of the county. The 
drift of immigration, as a rule, avoided the town, which then consisted of 
Baker's cabin and tavern. While this latter was building the only gimlet in 
the settlement was broken, and Frederick Baker walked to Craine's Grove, in 
Silver Creek Township, charged with the duty of supplying its absence by bor- 
rowing one of Mr. Craine. Not only was he successful in this respect, but he 
then, for the first time, met the young lady who subsequently became his wife. 

One of the most important events of the year was the birth of Caroline 
Baker, which occurred in May, and was the first child born in the city or town- 
ship. She still lives, as Mrs. Amos Doane, of Kansas. 

Baker, Kirkpatrick, Galbraith & Co. put up two houses this year, one at the 
corner of Galena and Chicago streets, and one on what is now Stephenson street, 
opposite the monument. These two comprised the improvements made, except 
a small hut on the river bank, occupied in the fall by L. 0. Crocker as a store, 
subsequently by 0. H. Wright, and finally as a schoolhouse, where Nelson 
Martin inaugurated a system of education long since vacated for that now in 
force. 

Among those who settled in Freeport in 1836, was 0. H. Wright, L. 0. 
Crocker, Joel Dodds, Hiram G. Eads, Jacob Goodheart, John Hinkle, James 
Burns, the first mason ; William, Samuel and Robert Smith. Benjamin R. Wil- 
mot, John Brown, etc. F. D. Bulkley went to Silver Creek ; E. H. D. San- 
born came in and went to Harlem ; so that when winter succeeded the ides 
of November, there was quite a sprinkling of inhabitants. That winter is 
remembered as one of exceeding severity, and none engaged m labor out 
of doors but what was indispensable to procure in-door comforts. There 
was no building in the future city ; the saw-mill of Kirkpatrick at Mill 
Grove — which supplied the lumber for houses put up that and succeeding 
years by the company of which he was a member — was idle, and any mater- 
ial prepared for building purposes was hewn in the woods. The spring of 1837 
opened auspiciously, and the outlook for the season was regarded as promising. 
This year's arrivals included Isaac Stoneman, Daniel Eobrust, who was moved 
into the city by William Kirkpatrick ; Richard Earl, John A. McDowell, Maj. 
John Howe, Michael Red, Luther and Charles Hall, Richard Howe, Chancellor 

Martin, Richard Hunt, Davis, Abraham Johnson. William Stewart, L. W. 

Guiteau and others. Those who came to the city, but removed to other points in 

K 



370 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

the county, were Thomas J. Turner, Julius Smith, Patrick Frame, Harvey P. 
Waters. William Barlow, etc. The company erected buildings on Galena street • 
Michael Red put up one at the corner of Galena and Van Buren streets ; B. 
K. Wilmot and Levi J. Webb, erected residences on the former thoroughfare. 
During the summer, Thomas Hathaway and James and Matthew Brown made 
their first appearance and ''broke" farms in the present city. They raised 
what was known as sod corn, and oats, but as there were no markets for their 
sale the crops were retained for home consumption. That summer also, the 
company continued to complete improvements, extending the same to Stephen- 
son street. 0. H. Wright erected a frame store near the reservation, to which 
was added his residence. Mr. Wright had previously purchased lots near the 
original town, but business promised to flourish in the new town and he 
removed thither. Before fall of 1837 the county seat of Stephenson County 
had been established at Freeport, by which name the town was that year 
formally characterized. It had been previously known as Winneshiek, and 
consisted then of not to exceed a few houses. The tavern, in fact though not 
in name, was the residence of William Baker, on the river bank, at which new- 
comers were hospitably welcomed, often without price. Mrs. Baker finally 
began to tire of her husband's promiscuous hospitality, and one morning at 
breakfast re-christened the settlement "Freeport," under which generous title, 
applied ironically in the instance cited, it has become familiar to the settler, 
merchant, drummer and speculating public. 

There was considerable rivalry for the county seat, made principally by 
Cedarville, Freeport, and one other town which was backed by Thompson and 
Rezin Wicoxon, but without success. The claims made for Cedarville were 
based upon her location near the center of the county, but the company organ- 
ized to build up Freeport emphasized their arguments with a donation of 
$6,500 for the erection of the county buildings, and that decided all doubts in 
favor of Freeport. 

Thereafter, the town began to fill up rapidly, and improvements kept pace 
with the new arrivals. In the summer, W. H. and H. W. Hollenbeck, Am- 
brose Tower, Charles and Isaac Truax, William Patterson, Allen Wiley, James 
Barr, Samuel Leonard, John Montgomery, John A. Clark and others came in. 

About this time the Indians, who were in the vicinity in patches, robbed 
the "Widow" Brown* of supplies, and fled to Rock Run Township. The 
madam promulgated the loss she had sustained, and William Baker, M. Brown, 
Jake Godheart and " Wild Gunner" Murphey pursued the thieves, accompa- 
nied by Frederick Baker, who was to officiate as interpreter. The rascals were 
come up with, as stated, in Rock Run Township, and as soon as their camp 
was reached, one of the pursuers, becoming frightened at their warlike and 
bloodthirsty appearance, retired from further overtures for the return of the 
stolen articles, at a gait rivaling that reported of Tarn O'Shanter when pur- 
sued by the witches. The red men who, by the way, are said to have been in 
a condition of decided inebriety, and proportionately fierce, interrogated Mr. 
Baker as to the cause of the paleface's sudden withdrawal, and were answered 
that he was hurrying to a force of one hundred men, en route to their camp, 
to announce the location of the enemy, and, if an immediate settlement was not 
concluded favorable to the widow, reprisals would be made of their scalps. Thus 
admonished, the thieves exhausted their eloquence and available resources to 
reach a compromise, which was finally attained, the Indians returning what 
remained of the "widow's" property, and reimbursing her for what had been 
disposed of with a horse, giving Mr. Baker a horse to pilot them clear of 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 371 

Freeport and the volunteers, and paying Frederick Brown four coon skins for 
conducting the negotiations. 

This year, it is said, Court convened in 0. H. Wright's house, Judge 
Daniel Stone presiding. 

Speaking of Indians, the following is related in that connection : On the 
afternoon of a very stormy winter's day, five Indians came to the door of a 
resident (F. D. Bulkley), and asked shelter, extending their hands with expres- 
sive gestures toward the naked frames of their deserted wigwams that stood in 
sight, and saying, "Wigwams all gone; Indian got no wigwam." They were 
welcomed to the cabin, where they stripped off' their wet clothes and hung 
them to dry, and, as the only way in which they could testify their gratitude, 
sent a lad of their number to transfer whisky with his mouth from a large jug 
to a small one, so as to offer him a drink. 

One day Mr. Kent, the first settler at Rockford, had been to visit his 
brother, the Rev. Aratus Kent, who then resided at Galena. On his return he 
procured a canoe at some point on the Pecatonica, and, loading the same with 
potatoes, continued his journey to Rockford. Arriving at Winneshiek Lodge 
(Freeport), he tied up and went on shore. When he came back he found his 
boat surrounded by squaws and little Indians, naked and swimming about, all 
busy as squirrels carrying away his potatoes. Those that remained he carried 
home, planted them, raised a fine crop, and awoke one morning to find them 
all harvested and carried off by the Indians. 

In the fall of that year (1836), Emma Eads, daughter of Hiram G. Eads, 
died in a two-story frame house at the foot of Stephenson street, then occupied 
as a tavern. She was buried in a lot of ground, afterward laid out as a ceme- 
tery, at the foot of Summit street, the coffin being made, it is thought, by 
Richard Earl, a carpenter, who settled in the city, as already stated, in the 
preceding spring. Hers was the first death in the city or township. 

Improvements this fall were of a nominal character. Wilmot and the 
Hollenbecks put up cabins, and some motion was made toward pretentiousness in 
the town, of limited capacities, however, in their behalf. Religious meetings were 
occasionally held, when the circuit rider tarried at the fireside of a settler to 
define the Scriptures or engage in the duties incident to his profession. This 
year, it is believed, Father McKean preached the first sermon in the city. While 
the religious interests of the community were thus cared for, the cause of 
education was reserved for the future to develop, and the youth of the inhab- 
itants ran wild in the woods, afar from pedagogue influence or restraint. Social 
amenities began to crop out, and dancing found admirers among the belles of the 
surrounding country, the Craine girls, Eliza and Sarah Hunt with Melinda 
Norris being the focal attractions toward which sighing swains were irresistibly 
drawn. 0. H. Wright maintained the store, Dr. Martin and Van Valzah, 
the latter residing at Cedarville, however, prescribed medicaments for the 
diseased, carpenters officiated as undertakers, and graves for the dead were 
prepared by friends and relatives of the family thus afflicted. There were 
neither holidays nor sports, Christmas came and went without the " fixins " 
peculiar to the modern celebration of that event, and Fourth of July, the day 
upon which the hearts of Americans are supposed to thrill with an exuberance 
of enthusiasm, was not celebrated until 1838 in the city. 

The spring succeeding was equally uninteresting as the fall of 1837. 
Richard Hunt erected a frame building on Van Buren street, also one on the 
corner of that thoroughfare and Spring street. But building was not general. 
The country, however, enjoyed a happier experience ; farms were opened, the 



372 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

area of cultivation was measurably increased, and the system employed brought 
forth more generous returns. Early in the summer, Michael Red added to 
the number of buildings, and on the 9th of April, Richard Earl was married to 
Catharine Brown, Squire Julius Smith consolidating the two hearts into one 
according to the forms prescribed by statute. This was the first matrimonial 
venture made in the settlement, and, without exaggeration, it may be concluded, 
was regarded as an auspicious circumstance in the history of the town. 

In the spring of this year, H. G. Eads built a tavern at the pres- 
ent corner of Stephenson and Liberty streets. Julius Smith was the architect 
and carpenter employed, and, upon its completion, it was named the " City 
Hotel." The court house, for which timbers had been gotten out during the 
winter previous, was begun the same spring, though its completion was delayed 
until 1840, due probably to the embarrassed financial condition of the county, 
county orders at this period commanding but thirty cents on the dollar. 

The nation's birthday was first celebrated in Freeport July 4, 1838, with 
all the pomp and circumstance available at that period. 

In the fall of 1838, the " Mansion House " was put up by Benjamin God- 
dard, and for many years thereafter occupied as a hotel under the control of 
Mr. G. It was of frame, two stories high, with nine rooms and accommoda- 
tions for a limited number of guests. It still stands across the creek in the 
southern portion of the city on the very spot of its origin, and occupied for 
the manufacture of "pop, root beer, cider " and other compounds, which 
commend themselves to the patronage of teetotalers. 

John Montgomery and A. Wiley built a frame house on the present site 
of the First National Bank, which was used as a store, and subsequently became 
a tavern. Elijah Barrett opened a similar depot the same year, and L. W. 
Guiteau an establishment for the sale of a general assortment of goods, at the 
corner of Galena and Liberty streets. In the winter, Nelson Martin opened 
the first school taught in the city, in the building formerly occupied by L. 0. 
Crocker as a store. This year the ferry was removed to the foot of Stephen- 
son street, where it was maintained by H. G. Eads and his successors until 
public necessity substituted a bridge. The ferry was first established on Peca- 
tonica River, opposite the city, by William Baker, when Freeport was known 
as Winnesheik. 

On the last day of the year (1839), George Purinton, still living, one 
of the oldest residents in the city, came to his future home with ten shillings 
in his pocket, and put up at the Mansion House. Among others who came in 
1839 was Squire A. T. Green, who still lives in the city he made his home 
forty-one years ago. He has been identified with its progress, as he was with 
its infancy, by the erection of buildings, and other improvements, and in the 
enjoyment of a hale old age, bright memories blossom out of the shadowy past 
for him, beautifying its dimness and tinting the vanished years with colors of 
never-ending fascination. 

The year had been one of greater prosperity than those preceding. Emi- 
gration had been general to the State and county, and many who had come in / 
search of a permanent abiding-place found that desideratum at Freeport, and 
remained. The outlook was the reverse of gloomy ; the panic of 1837, which 
paralyzed more prosperous communities, was not felt in Freeport, and the 
" city," which, but five years before, was without a local habitation, had been sur- 
veyed, laid out and platted by F. D. Bulkley, the plat being drawn by Miss 
Cornelia Russell, one of the vocal celebrants of July 4, 1838. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 373 

The houses, though not numerous, were sufficiently so to demonstrate pos- 
sibilities a few years hence to those who anticipated a day when their most san- 
guine expectations would be fully realized. None of them bore the marks of 
architectural finish, but presented an appearance which added a spice of cheer- 
fulness to the surroundings. Business was, as a rule, transacted on a cash basis, 
thereby avoiding causes of complaint and bills of costs. Amusements were 
found in developing the country and providing ways and means to enrich the 
inhabitants. Balls, dances and socials comprised the limit of entertainments 
provided, and these were conducted with a dignity and propriety more genuine 
than is to be observed among the blue and gold social circles of to-day. The 
moral show, circus, Ethiopian comedians and combinations were "blessings" 
yet unborn in the history of the town, and the residents were to be felicitated 
on their possession of a bliss born of an ignorance of the existence of these chan- 
nels of useless expense. No one was rich ; impoverishment, rather than inde- 
pendence, was the rule, and if extravagance had been added to these embargoes 
the history of Freeport might yet have been in a future, beyond the ken of man 
to descry. 

The winter of 1838-39 was characterized by k ' harder times " than any pre- 
vious season. There were no accessible markets for the sale of crops, compara- 
tively little money, impassable roads and other features of a pioneer life that 
increase the general happiness in proportion as they diminish in importance. 
Supplies were obtained at Galena, New Diggings, and occasionally brought from 
Chicago by teams and wagons, or "prairie schooners," as they were sometimes 
termed, the piloting of which not only required the skill of a special pleader, but 
levied contributions from sources of original and fruitful profanity. 

About 1837 or 1838, J. D. Winters operated a stage line from Chicago to 
Freeport, where Frink & Walker made connection for Galena. In 1839, how- 
ever, this arrangement was abandoned, Frink & Walker monopolizing the entire 
trade, and finally compelling the Winters organization to abandon the field. 
The stages, drawn by four horses, reached Freeport three times a week from 
Chicago, and delivered passengers at the Mansion House, kept by Benjamin God- 
dard. It required two days and a night to make the trip to or from Chicago, 
and the fare is stated to have been $5. 

In the spring of 1839. a well-known character by the name of Worden P. 
Fletcher, but more familiar to settlers under the euphonious pseudonym of 
"Pony " Fletcher, was arrested for "jumping" a claim, and conducted to the 
office of Justice Richard Hunt, at the corner of Galena and Van Buren streets, 
to be arraigned and plead. It seemed that upon a submission of the evidence, 
His Honor decided the eccentric "Pony" guilty, and imposed some penalty 
which the latter conceived as entirely disproportioned to what he insisted was a 
nominal offense. In harmony with this conclusion, the alleged claim jumper 
attempted to escape from the presence of justice without first having satisfied 
the demands of the blind goddess. But his movements in that direction were 
restrained by the audience, from which a posse eomitatus was enlisted, and 
Fletcher's departure indefinitely postponed. When brought to bay, and all 
hope of escape prevented, the prisoner seized his gun, and, before any one was 
able to prevent him, discharged its contents at the Justice ; happily, the only 
damage done was to the Squire's vest, which was ruined, and, before the impet- 
uous gunner could again draw the bead, he was disarmed by the crowd, which 
included Frederick Baker, Isaac Stoneman, Allen Wiley and others, and tied 
in a hopelessly defenseless "knot" until the case could be adjudicated. He 
was held in bonds to appear on a future day, and obtaining bail, departed for 



374 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

Rock Run Township, where he opened a farm, married a daughter of the Widow 
Swanson and become a prominent citizen, identifying himself with the best 
interests of the people. The charge against him was never prosecuted. 

During the same year, a man named John Barker was arrested for a sim- 
ilar offense against the laws, but failed to receive the generous leniency accorded 
Fletcher. The accused had " settled " on one of Benjamin Goddard's claims, 
since become a part of the city, and now identified as the block on Stephenson 
street, wherein Maynard's store is located, and refused to vacate. He was 
accordingly arrested, and submitted his defense before a committee, of which 
William Baker was chairman. After a careful consideration of the premises, 
the court decided that the claim must be vacated by Barker within a certain 
time, in default of which, thirty lashes should be administered to the recalcitrant 
settler. 

He failed, however, to heed this admonition, and, on the day upon which 
the limit of indulgence expired, he was taken into custody, tied up by the 
thumbs and lashed into penitence and humility. Upon being released from 
custody, he was escorted to the county line and urged to consult neither time 
nor distance in accomplishing a permanent and unlimited space between 
himself and present surroundings. If he returned to the vicinity, he was told 
he would certainly be hanged. His presence was never again inflicted upon 
the citizens of Freeport. 

As an illustration of the early administration of the civil law, the following 
is related : One Mike Walsh was arrested for assault and battery and brought 
before Justice Red. The jury was summoned, and the case heard, but, 
before the jury retired, the accused came in with a tin pail of whisky and cup, 
saying, " I expect you'll hang the little Irishman anyhow, but we'll have a 
drink together first." When their thirst was sufficiently slaked, the jury 
retired, and soon Red come demanding admittance to give some further instruc- 
tions. This came near causing a fight with the Constable, but was at length 
disposed of, when the jury came forth with a decision of " not guilty," and that 
the costs be divided between the parties. Accordingly, the money was handed 
over to the Justice, and by him paid to witnesses and others coming with 
demands until it was all gone, and, when the clouds were sufficiently dissipated 
to permit of a reckoning, he found himself about $4 out of pocket. 

In 1839, the post office was established at Freeport, with Benjamin R. 
Wilmot as Postmaster, who held the office in his private residence on Galena, 
between Van Buren and Chicago streets. Two years previous, Thomas Craine, 
residing at Craine's Grove, where he kept a tavern, carried the mail from his 
house to Galena and Freeport, via the old State road, his pocket being the 
letter pouch, himself delivering its contents to the addresses to whom they were 
directed. 

Among those who came to Freeport in 1839, were D. A. Knowlton, who 
opened a store at the corner of Galena and Van Buren streets, and became one 
of the most prosperous citizens of later days ; A. T. Green, still residing in the 
city of his adoption ; N. L. Rogers, James M. Bailey, Charles Pratt, John Rice 
and others. That winter, John A. McDowell and Isaac Stoneman passed in 
the woods, preparing timber for the hotel then projected at the corner of Galena 
and P^xchange streets, which was completed a year later. 

During 1840, the emigration to the city and county which had up to that 
date annually increased, came to a stand and gradually diminished until 1850. 
The growth of the town was in consequence slow, there being comparatively 
little to attract new-comers. The town was "inland" at some distance from 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 375 

market, and there was an abundance of good farming lands contiguous to 
Freeport ; but the agricultural classes were not numerous enough to enrich mer- 
chants and develop a city by liberal patronage. The city contained, at that 
date, about forty houses, as near as can be recalled by the residents of the 
period, two or three of which were hotels, three stores, viz., Wright's, Guiteau's, 
and Knowlton's ; Abraham Johnson, James Rock and James Montgomery's 
saloons and gambling houses, etc., the remainder consisting of public buildings 
and private residences ; neither banks nor drog stores being then erected. Mon ey 
of farmers was deposited with merchants and by them forwarded to places of 
security in cities rejoicing; in the possession of a safe deposit. There was little 
need of medicine either. When one of the citizens was attacked by the chills 
and fever, he usually found a solution for his woes, effective if unpalatable, in 
" Rowan's Tonic Mixture," "Indian Cholagogue " and other specifics retailed 
as staple articles by the merchants. When, however, the diseases ministered 
to refused to yield to such harmless compounds and required a more thorough 
course of treatment to stay the progress of the man on the pale horse, Drs. 
Martin, Van Valzah and others, who professionally administered to frames dis- 
eased, were summoned. 

If money was comparatively scarce, as noted, and necessaries proportion- 
ately ex'pensive, luxuries, so called, were not held at figures beyond the reach 
of the seeker therefor. These latter included liquors which could be obtained 
at the several saloons in the town, as also at the hotels, except the Mansion 
House, which was a hotel conducted in accordance with the principles of tem- 
perance, which even in that early day and where society was measured by its 
excesses, found substantial expression in this growing city of Northern Illinois. 

As a rule, say they who were then residents of the municipality, morality 
was not held in as high regard as it has since obtained. With a population 
to a large extent transient, with whisky sixpence a drink, and limited facilities 
for the enforcement of the laws, any other conclusion would be naturally incor- 
rect. Gambling, too, was welcomed, not only as a diversion, but also a means 
of livelihood. The game of faro was publicly dealt without interference, and 
during 1840, James Rock introduced the game of keno to an admiring patron- 
age, who in daylight and after dark gathered in a little room in the building 
then occupying the corner of Van Buren and Galena streets, the present site 
of Hoebel & Moogk's drug store, to tempt the fickle dame by the card and 
button route. In the same year, the Rev. F. C. Winslow and John A. Clark, 
appreciating the existence of a field for the inauguration of reformatory meas- 
ures, commenced meetings in the same building and organized a temperance 
society, which accomplished much good in time among the unfortunates who 
were confirmed worshipers at the shrine of Bacchus. Indeed, drinking is said 
to have been universal among nearly all classes, and crime scarcely less retiring. 
Horse-stealing was a species of felony that afforded the guilty party nearly 
every means of escape and profitable investment. As a result, it was prac- 
ticed by men unsuspected at the time, at the most inconvenient seasons, and 
when the victim of the theft was the least prepared either to prevent its com- 
mission or recover the property. This grade of crime became too frequent in 
time, and the capture of one of the thieves was almost invariably followed by 
a trial, the soul of which was its brevity, conviction and summary punishment. 
Freeport was a resting-place for this class while evolving a plan of future opera- 
tions to be executed elsewhere. Many miners going to and returning from 
the mines rendezvoused at Freeport, and, with the facilities for dissipation 
accessible, debauches and disorder were by no means exceptions in the daily 



376 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

lives of those classes of men who generally, without homes or restraining influ- 
ences, are ready for any quality of excitement afforded at the moment. The 
block-house which then stood where the high school now is, it is said, was filled 
to repletion with horse thieves and rioters, who after a brief imprisonment, 
were either sent to Alton, mysteriously disappeared or shipped out of the 
country with the assurance that their lives would pay the penalty of their return. 

In the summer of 1840, M. P. Sweet came into Freeport and established 
himself permanently as a practitioner at the bar. Thomas J. Turner came 
the next, and in their several capacities both gentlemen attained prominence 
and secured reputations that will survive while the practice of law is regarded 
in Freeport as among the most reputable and profitable of the professions. 

Yet, amid the scenes of dissipation and disorder quoted, there were occa- 
sional gleams of sunshine through the clouds, promising a brighter future. 
Though the moral atmosphere of the city is represented as having been odor- 
ous with crime, there were ministers and religious services, and the cause of 
education was constantly agitated by the sincerest of advocates. - The Rev. F. C. 
Winslow, "Father" McKean and other laborers in the cause of religion and 
morality, preached at intervals in private residences, the school and court houses, 
in addition to conducting prayer-meetings and Sabbath schools. The congrega- 
tions were of course small, but they are said to have been sincere, and the fruit 
of their labors is to be seen in Freeport to-day in the numerous congregations, 
handsome church edifices and evidences of prosperity evident on all sides. 
They laid the foundation for that morality and Christian harmony which pre- 
vails not alone among the churches, but among those who are even remotely 
influenced by their teachings. 

In the winter of 1840, the first dancing-school taught in the city was 
opened in the building still standing at the corner of Exchange and Galena 
streets, in the room fronting on the former thoroughfare. Professor Bailey 
instructed ambitious youths in the arts of Terpsichore and politeness, while 
Charley Pratt accompanied him with the fiddle. The class was made up of a 
dozen young people, representing the beauty and chivalry of Freeport, who 
met once a week and engaged in the "dizzy maze " with all that the term im- 
plies, until late at night. Many who participated in those hops still live, and 
unite in awarding the palm for grace and beauty to Miss Sarah Hunt, none of 
whom, however, were able to influence the young lady to remain in Freeport. 
She returned to New York — whence she originally came — while yet a young 
lady, where she was married, and lost fight of in the years that followed. 

Among those who came during this period were Mathias Hettinger, Ashael 
Rice, etc. Calvin Waterbury, a Presbyterian missionary, came in 1842, as also 
did others. 

In June of the latter year, the first circus to pitch its camp in Freeport 
unfolded its tents near the present site of the Tremont House, and the residents 
for miles around were edified by the feats of horsemanship and ground and lofty 
tumbling exhibited, as also by the witty bon mots of the clown. The show was 
under the management of Levi J. North, it is thought, and its success in Free- 
port not less pronounced than remunerative. 

Henceforward, inconsistent as it may seem, the truth as related by those con- 
versant with the facts, represents the growth of the city as comparatively slow. 
The same causes which operated so disadvantageously to the county in that respect 
were repeated in the advancement of the city. The great distance from mar- 
ket and meager facilities discouraged immigration and retarded the city's 
improvement. When the railroad system, however, was projected, it was per- 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 377 

ceived that Freeport would eventually become an important point of communi- 
cation. This stimulated immigration long before any road was proposed, 
and was materially increased when the roads were completed. 

In those times, as now, the business and residence portions of the city were 
not several, as to-day, but distributed about the city with a charmingly incon- 
venient irregularity. There were no stately mansions nor marble palaces, where 
elegance resided or fashion was exhibited. Travelers were not rolled into town 
in Pullman sleepers or parlor cars, but in Walker & Frink's stages, or upon a 
lumber wagon drawn by a yoke of oxen. Beauty and chivalry were not as pre- 
tentious as they are to-day, and the style sought to be established, the embodiment 
of usefulness ; ornamentation was held at a distance, if not entirely tabooed. 

As one of the old settlers observed when commenting upon the times 
referred to, " There was no hicondirifics then, young man, I tell you. A man 
was taken for just what he was worth, and a woman too ; and if either of them 
failed to come up to the standard of expectation, he or she was left in the race 
for leadership." 

The days mentioned were well calculated, according to report, to develop 
whatever of character there was lying dormant in a man's composition, only wait- 
ing for circumstances to bring it out. A man able to maintain his position in 
any relation of life, either as a merchant, a mechanic, or professionally, was sure 
of success. It might not come with the dawn of the day after trials and labors, 
but come it would, and to remain. The success which has attended the labors 
of every man who has distinguished himself in Freeport illustrates the truth of 
this conclusion. So, too, a man without the ambition to succeed could certainly 
attain the nadir of hopelessness without the delay ordinarily experienced to-day 
through the intervention of so-called financial or other fortuitous influences. 

Early in the forties, notwithstanding the absence of encouraging features, 
the class of improvements begun and completed, as also those proposed, were of 
a more substantial, not to say finished, type than those which had gone up dur- 
ing the earlier years. The business houses constructed after designs as original 
as they were adapted to the times when called into being, were becoming worn 
and disagreeable features to the gaze of the comparatively aesthetic residents 
who had become identified with the city from 1840 to 1845. And this was not 
to be wondered at, either. Freeport was possessed of many advantages by this 
time which were highly prized and gladly availed of. Transportation facilities 
had become more extended and convenient. Stages communicated with towns in 
the interior of the State, as also in Wisconsin and the Territory of Iowa. The 
subject of rendering the Pecatonica navigable was generally mooted, and, 
though nothing was accomplished in that direction, it was not for any lack of 
promise the completion of such an undertaking held out. The mail was daily ; 
and the postoffice, held about this time in the residence of Thomas J. Turner, 
became the resort of all who were possessed or in search of news. The old 
building then occupied, it is said, long since gave way to a more extensive suc- 
cessor, meeting the fate of useless appendages in cities — destruction. 

About this time, the first brick building erected in the city went up, but 
there is a dispute as to its locality. Some assert that it still remains, occupying 
the corner of Galena and Cherry streets, where it was put as a residence for 
John Perkins, thirty-five years ago. Others claim that the first brick was 
built about this time at the corner of Bridge and Van Buren streets. That 
too, was a residence, being occupied by David Clay, and for many, very many 
years, was devoted to this purpose by various citizens. Within a few years, 
however, it was razed, and the elegant brick building, now used as a post 



378 '• HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

office, occupies its site. There is a claim also made that the one-story brick 
building at the corner of Stephenson and Mechanic streets, was the first of the 
kind in Freeport. Appearances would indicate that this last is quite aged, but the 
claims made in its behalf are disputed in favor of the Clay and Perkins resi- 
dences, with a tendency to settle the question in favor of the former. From 
that date, brick buildings gradually became the rule instead of the exception. 
A. T. Green put up one at the corner of Stephenson and Chicago streets, in 
1846, the third in the city ; this, too, was destroyed years ago, and a block 
erected in its stead was utilized to purposes as numerous as were the 
colors in Joseph's coat. These precedents established, others went up, 
each one more elaborately finished, and, during the ensuing decade, when 
0. H. Wright built a three-story brick store and warehouse on Stephen- 
son street, and caused it to be finished in hard wood, it was regarded with a 
curiosity equal to that with which the ancients regarded the seven wonders. As 
first built, it occupied a slight elevation, and was reached by a flight of steps. In 
time, this came to be regarded as inconvenient and detracting from its general 
appearance, when a slight elevation was cut away and the building lowered to its 
present level. The task was accomplished by means employed for similar pur- 
poses in Chicago, and attended by a large expense. 

In the fall of 1842, Freeport was the stage of an almost unprecedented 
excitement, consequent upon the mysterious disappearance of a lad named 
Tripp, under circumstances inducing an apprehension of foul play. He, in 
company with a number of boys, had visited the woods which line Yellow 
Creek, for the purpose of collecting a store of butternuts, and. becoming fright- 
ened at the outcries of his companions, one of whom appeared to him dressed in 
a buffalo robe representing a panther, had fled. When night came on, the remain- 
der of the party returned to the village, accounting for his absence so unsatis- 
factorily as to excite the gravest suspicions concerning his fate. The following 
day young Tripp failing to appear, strengthened these suspicions, and created 
the greatest anxiety. In the midst of the excitement prevalent, a meeting of 
citizens was convened, and, after deliberating upon the mysterious circumstances 
shrouding his disappearance, a committee of citizens was organized to ascertain 
his whereabouts or secure the remains, as it was thought he had been mercilessly 
slaughtered. The committee mounted on horses, ranged the woods for several 
days and nights without success, and, as they were about abandoning further 
pursuit, footsteps were discovered in the sand of the creek bottom, which, being 
followed up, led to his place of rest in the woods, about three miles from where 
he disappeared. He was in a condition approximating starvation, but recovered 
his usual health in time, and the occurrence was soon forgotten. When the 
boys with whom he had gone to the woods frightened him, as related, he had left 
their company, and wandering aimlessly about for three days, finally succumbed 
to exhaustion, and was only saved from impending death by the fortunate dis- 
covery of his tracks, and the subsequent finding of himself. 

The most important event probably of this decade was the establishment 
of a weekly newspaper in the town. This was accomplished through the in- 
strumentality of the Hon. Thomas J. Turner, then a representative in Congress. 
Stephen D. Carpenter, who had previously been editor of the Girard (Penn.) 
Free Press, was elected to manage its affairs, and under his direction it was 
issued as the Prairie Democrat. 

In the following year the Freeport Journal was promulgated by Messrs. 
Grattan & McFadden, in the interests of the Whig party, and met with a 
ready support. Both papers have survived the whips and scorns of time, and 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. * 379 

are to-day flourishing and authoritative mediums of information, as also sources 
of profit. 

During this year, Horace Tarbox erected a large three-story stone building 
at the corner of Stephenson and Chicago streets, which was designed for and 
appropriated to hotel purposes. The premises were completed in December 
and thrown open to the public on January 1. 1849, as the " Winnesheik 
House,'' remaining for many years a hospitable home for the immigrant and 
traveler, and supplying the absence theretofore experienced of a "first-class " 
house of entertainment. Upon the opening night, a ball was given in the 
house, which was attended by the elite for miles around, and is remembered 
to-dav as an event of importance and pleasure. The building was torn down 
in 18*74. 

The improvements made this decade, though not numerous or elaborate, 
were substantial, and kept pace with the necessities of the people. They in- 
cluded buildings erected by D. A. Knowlton, George Purinton, 0. H. Wright, 
C Rosenstiel, William Glover, Emmert & Strohm, I. C. Stoneman, and others, 
which, in addition to increasing the conveniences of the village, added mate- 
rially to its appearance. A dam was also constructed across the Pecatonica as 
an inducement for the investment of capital. It was erected, under authority 
granted by the Legislature, by E. E. Hanchett, and was owned in part by 0. 
H. Wright, Lerch, Powell & Goddard. Upon its completion, a capacious flour- 
ing-mill was built and other improvements made, consisting of a saw-mill, 
carding-machine, etc. An additional impetus was given to the village by these 
accessions of resources, and the subsequent growth and prosperity of Freeport 
properly began at this period. 

In 1849, the population of the village is quoted at 1,020. There were five 
ministers, three school teachers, four doctors, two surgeons, one surveyor and 
nine lawyers. In addition to these, nine land-speculators were numbered among 
the population, twenty-nine mechanics'and twenty stores. A division of the Sons 
of Temperance, a lodge of Odd Fellows and other less important auxiliaries to 
success are noted as originating during 1849. This year the first church edifice 
in the city was erected and occupied, being the Presbyterian Church, yet stand- 
ing on the corner of Walnut and Stephenson streets, being occupied now as a 
machine shop, pretzel bakery and what not, entirely dissimilar to the uses for 
which it was originally consecrated. 

Notwithstanding the California fever and departure for that auriferous 
region of many who had been up to that time identified with the social, com- 
mercial and other interests of Freeport, the village advanced rapidly in the scale 
of importance and wealth. Additions had been made to the original town plot 
by D. A. Knowlton and others, which were platted and sold without the difficul- 
ties attendant upon later-day transfers. About this time the miscellaneous class of 
people who always become part of new towns began to thin out and disappear, 
and the sporting characters, whose presence has been noted, having exhausted 
the supplies here, wended their way to other points. Some were after- 
ward heard of in California, some in the lead mines, some on the Miss- 
issippi River, and some on the gallows ; but thereafter they avoided 
Freeport as carefully as they had sought its attractions theretofore. Church 
services and Sabbath schools were numerously attended ; a Bible Society 
was organized ; the temperance advocates became a power for good in 
the community, and the moral success of Freeport thenceforward was unde- 
niable. Educationally, equally gratifying advancements were made. The 
"Old Red Schoolhouse " had by this time become entirely too small to 



380 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

accommodate the demand, and other arrangements had to be made to furnish 
the public wants. Early in the year, a meeting was convened at the court house 
for the purpose of considering this question, which was largely attended. 
Numerous plans were submitted for the consideration of those present, and the 
outgrowth of these suggestions was a decision by which lots were purchased in 
Knowlton's Addition as a location for the union school building afterward 
erected. This meeting, it may be added, was the origin of the school system 
since so admirably conducted from the period when Freeport was a compara- 
tively unimportant village until to-day,when, as the most important city in North- 
ern Illinois, the educational facilities are among the most highly prized of her 
improvements. The same year, a female seminary was established, to be in har- 
mony with the spirit of the age, and, with the two weekly papers then in the 
first flush of success and popularity, the outlook was pictured to the residents 
as without clouds or unfavorable symptoms. The residence portion of the town 
was then beginning to tend toward Upper Stephenson street, and cross streets 
intersecting that thoroughfare were by no means avoided. Some of the most 
available sites were promptly taken possession of and occupied temporarily or 
held for future improvement ; but it was not until some years later that the 
street began to be built up. To-day it is adorned with handsomely furnished 
private residences nestling in the midst of gardens and foliage, the homes of 
wealth, intelligence and liberality. In no city in the Northwest is there an ave- 
nue possessing so many attractions in this respect. The lower portion of the 
street is devoted to business ; this extends to Walnut street, after crossing which 
the scene is metamorphosed. Costly church edifices, schools, lawns shaded by 
forest and ornamental trees, with other factors of beauty and excellence in the 
surroundings, complete a picture both harmonious and attractive. 

At the time of which mention is made, there were neither residences 
nor the promise of them. The lower end of the street was but imper- 
fectly occupied as a business center. Galena street monopolized the stores, 
saloons, warehouses, and , in most instances, private residences. There were 
houses at intervals in the vicinity of where Embury Church and the Union 
school are located. Beyond these points was almost a terra incognita. On 
the opposite side of the town, now limited by Galena avenue, the improve- 
ments were equally as distinct and distant, consisting of a cottage here and 
there, but scarcely anything more pretentious. The "boom" was coming, but 
had not reached Freeport. To the west were farms and forests, to the east the 
Pecatonica and the cemetery. This latter was laid out when the death of a little 
daughter of Hiram G. Eads required a place of burial, and by this time gave evi- 
dence of the fact that precious dust, how precious none but broken hearts can 
tell, had been laid beneath the turf — dust that once rounded into life, and 
warmed into love ; dust once folded in the clasp of sheltering arms. Age 
reposed there even then, and youth — a bride, perchance, whose cheek stained 
with the bright blush of the bridal, took on the pale seal of the "Master of 
mortality." Father, mother, husband and wife slept there too, in the icy clutch 
of death, and, when the cholera visited the town a few years thereafter, the hil- 
locks in that humble resting-place increased and multiplied. But the old 
church-yard long since was moved, the living must have room ; and, where 
beauty once was laid, the tears of love mingled with the damps of death upon 
her brow, a railroad now winds its devious way. Cherished dust, crumbling cof- 
fins and disjointed skeletons, gave way to the tread of life and that the world 
might go by. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 381 

With the beginning of the decade indexed by 1850, the village had grown, 
slowly to be sure, into the importance of a town. At all events, that seemed 
to be the impression of the people, who procured its incorporation as such 
during the summer of that year, under the general law of the State, and at an 
election held in pursuance of the law, the following were selected as Trustees : 
Thomas J. Turner, Julius Smith, John K. Brewster, John Rice and Joseph B. 
Smith. By this year the importance of railroad communication between Free- 
port and distant points became apparent, and a meeting was called to ascertain 
what contributions were necessary to the end that the Galena road might be 
directed thither. The aid that was furnished, and the labor and pains employed, 
to promote the success of that undertaking, as also the subsequent proceed- 
ings, had in that and other railroad enterprises, has been detailed, and is only 
referred to here as an incident connected with the growth of the city. 

The population increased nearly five hundred, as was evidenced when the 
census was taken under the supervision of Oscar Taylor, who returned the city 
1,486, and the county 11,666, an increase in the latter of 8,797 in the past ten 
years, notwithstanding the difficulties of trade and inaccessibility to market 
that were encountered during that period. The cholera came to Freeport about 
this time and departed after a brief sojourn, but not before it had invaded the 
ranks of the citizens indiscriminately. The disease visited the city twice there- 
after, in 1852 and 1854, since when it has remained at a distance both 
enchanting and safe. 

• The epidemic of 1852 will be long remembered, and is to-day referred to, 
by those who survived, with shudders and expressions of fear. The first case 
is said to have occurred on the " Branch," and its advance in that portion of 
the city, at least, was not checked until it had run the gantlet of every resi- 
dence in that quarter. Indeed, it was confined to this portion of the city, the 
cases of Dr. Lowman and Mrs. Wright being the only ones reported north of 
Stephenson street. During this terrible visitation (and that it was terrible is 
to be found in the fact that, upon one day in August, eighteen deaths 
occurred) the people apparently remained unappalled by the frightful spectacle, 
and combined to ameliorate the effects of this unprecedented calamity. The 
sick were nursed and the dead buried by people from every grade of society. The 
gambler, outlaw and outcast felt as keen sympathy, nursed as tenderly and 
died as bravely as those who in purple and fine linen, forgetful of station or 
danger, lent their presence and assistance to mitigate the horrors of the 
plague, bind up broken hearts and care for the widow and fatherless. There 
were but a few physicians during this trying period ; Drs. L. A. Mease, Chan- 
cellor Martin, Robert H. Van Valzah and T. J. Hazlett being the more promi- 
nent ; the nurses and grave-diggers were similarly limited, and taken from the 
various lines of life then cast in the vicinity. 

As illustrating the presence here, of some who remained rather through 
hope of gain than from humanitarian promptings, it is said that thieving and 
rascality, after suppression during years immediately previous, broke out 
afresh here during the continuance of the epidemic, and with greater virulence 
than was ever before manifested. In support of which a citizen related the 
following as a fair criterion of the existent state of affairs in that connection. 
A resident of St. Louis, proceeding to Buffalo, had taken passage in the stage 
at Galena for Chicago, en route to the Eastern markets. Upon reaching Free- 
port he was attacked with the disease, and, being quartered at the Winnesheik 
Hotel, was attended to as carefully as circumstances and the exigencies of the 
times permitted. He was known to have a large sum of money upon his 



382 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

person, and, when taken down, careful watch was maintained to prevent the 
attacks of marauders. He finally convalesced sufficiently to go down stairs, 
and ventured out during an afternoon to test his capacity to endure the fatigues 
of a trip East. That night he suffered from a relapse, and died before medical aid 
could effect a change. After death, $6,000 of the amount he had in his posses- 
sion mysteriously disappeared, and, though thorough search was made there- 
for, but $1,400 was recovered. He was buried in the cemetery, on the river 
bank, and his place of interment was lost sight of among the many graves that 
season caused to be prepared. Several years ago, his family came to Freeport 
to reclaim the body, but the grave could not be identified, and no man knows 
where he was laid. 

After the disease had spent its force, business revived, and in the fall of 
that year, as also the succeeding spring, the town transacted a larger amount of 
business than any other place of its size west of Chicago. Six stages arrived 
each day, and the hotels were fairly packed with travelers. In addition to the 
stages, there were hacks and other vehicles, bearing passengers, coming in 
hourly ; indeed, as has been said, it was no uncommon circumstance to see 
twenty-five or thirty conveyances, laden with speculators, reach Freeport daily. 
As a manufacturing center, Freeport was commencing to become prominent. 
This was doubtless one of the many advantages which came with the railroad 
that made its first advent into town in August, 1854, and began to run regu- 
larly during the following September. The impetus this gave to all the inter- 
ests, active and quiescent, cannot be described, but is said to have been 
immense. Among the results was the establishing here of a steam fiouring- 
mill, foundries, and machine-shops, one with a capacity for turning out one 
thousand plows annually, steam saw-mills, planing-mills, the railroad shops 
and other mediums for the accretion of wealth and attracting additions to the 
population. 

For months prior to the town becoming a city, the question of obtaining 
a charter therefor was generally agitated. Meetings were held, at which a full 
and fair discussion of the important subject was had, participated in by such 
men as D. A. Knowlton, Judge Farwell, C. S. Bogg, J. C. Kean. A. T. 
Gree, Judge Purinton and others, and the necessities of the town were fully 
canvassed. The people, as a rule, were largely in favor of the change, arguing 
that it would bring a more efficient government, in many respects, than was then 
enjoyed. The population and business had increased rapidly during the past 
years, and brought to the surface new interests, which required the care and 
protection of legislation ; with growth and prosperity, it was claimed, the moral 
character had been in no very great degree elevated, and it was indispensable 
that the town be rid of the pestering vices which had thus far attached to the 
city's growth. To accomplish their destruction, enlarged powers, such as 
would be conferred by legislative enactment, were necessary. 

Opponents of the proposed change urged that the Town Trustees possessed 
every power that would be vested by a city charter ; that it was within the pre- 
rogative of the board to organize and provide for the support of a police force 
and fire department; to suppress tippling and gambling houses: to arrest 
disorderly characters, and generally to provide ways and means for the enforce- 
ment of right and justice. 

These discussions were continued until the Legislature convened, when, in 
response to an application therefor, a charter, incorporating Freeport into a 
city, was passed, and an election held on the 2d of April, 1855, with the fol- 
lowing result: Thomas J. Turner, Mayor; Treasurer, E. W. Salisbury; Clerk, 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 383 

H. N. Hibbard; Marshal, W. W. Smith; with John A. Clark, W. G. Waddell, 
Joseph B. Smith, John Barfoot, A. Cameron Hunt and John P. Byerly con- 
stituting the Board of Aldermen. 

At this period, the commercial and other advantages of the new city may 
be regarded as fortunate and important. Situated at the junction of two rail- 
roads, the business men had direct connection with Chicago and the East, and 
St. Louis and Cairo on the south, while the coal fields of Illinois were but 
seventy-five miles distant. The tide of western travel from the Eastern States 
to Iowa, Minnesota and Wisconsin, passed on one road, and the Southern travel 
on the other. The counties of Stephenson, Carroll and Green (the latter in 
Wisconsin) centered their business in Freeport, and over these counties were 
springing up farms, improvements and other features of long-settled countries. 
Mention has been made of the foundries, mills and machine-shops attracted to 
Freeport, and it only remains to observe that with these surroundings and 
resources the prediction was made that within a decade of years Freeport would 
be regarded as one of the first inland towns of the State. 

The improvements completed and ready for occupation during this period, 
among others, numbered a building on the south side of the square erected by 
Judge Farwell, Martin & Karcher's building, on Stephenson street, Mitchell & 
Putnam's bank building, at the corner of Stephenson and Chicago streets, and 
E. H. Hyde's block. This latter was said to be the most complete of any up 
to that time erected in the city. The ground floor was occupied as a dry-goods 
store and banking office, the second story was fitted up for offices, while the 
third floor was occupied by a hall for meetings and concerts. It was 45x70x15, 
handsomely furnished, and would comfortably seat several hundred. 

Aside from these features, the entire building was heated by steam and 
lighted by gas — the first public building in the city thus appointed, it is 
believed. This building was known as Plymouth Hall. 

In addition to this improvement, the city contained nine churches, and the 
large congregations attending each were an indication of the moral tendencies 
sought to be utilized by legislation. There were also three schools and an addi- 
tional paper, the Deutsch Anzeiger, all of them doing, if not a " land office," at 
least a remunerative, business. From these facts and statements, obtained from 
every accessible source of information, it will be seen that the predictions ven- 
tured, as above quoted, were not suggested by men of straw, nor yet enthusi- 
astic visionaries, but by men who reason from correct premises and deduce con- 
clusions irresistibly convincing. 

One feature of perfection, however, was wanting to " render the setting " 
complete, and that was a first-class hotel. This want was keenly felt by citi- 
zens, and before the close of 1855 arrangements had been completed for a build- 
ing five stories high and containing every convenience of comfort and luxury. 
The Exchange Block, on Stephenson, between Chicago and Mechanic streets, 
was occupied this year. This extensive addition was made by Engle & Strohm 
and John Hoebel, and very materially improved the appearance of the city. 
The ground floor contained commodious and handsomely finished stores ; the 
second story was fitted up for offices, and the third was occupied by a hall, well 
arranged with reference to comfort and convenience. 

Early in the spring of 1856, the Brewster House was commenced, and 
arrangements were completed by the Freeport Manufacturing Company for the 
erection of a building 150x60 and four stories high, the same to be located on 
Spring street, near the gas works. Both buildings were completed in 1857, in 
spite of the panic, and taken possession of. The Brewster House is still in use. 



384 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

but the handsome and thoroughly equipped brick put up for manufacturing pur- 
poses is unoccupied. Mr. Jere Pattison is the present owner of the latter prem- 
ises. In 1856, the square containing the Exchange Block was further beauti- 
fied by the erection of four buildings by J. B. Childs. The block was divided 
into stores, offices, and a public hall, and cost $10,000 when completed. A 
new three-story brick was put up by J. P. Spitler, on Chicago, between Galena 
and Stephenson streets, and many other improvements were perfected which 
still remain enduring monuments to the memory of the enterprising citizens who 
flourished about this time. 

Ordinarily, the growth of a town resembles that of the human frame, where 
the process of assimilation is so gradual that no line of demarkation between 
the old and the new can be drawn. But in Freeport that line was so visibly 
plain that no man erred in regard to its location. In fact, there were three 
distinct planes of improvement in the city : One belonging to that period when 
Freeport was a promising village, with a good water-power and farming country 
as resources. This plane was illustrated in the old-fashioned court house, the 
one-story stores and the small tavern enveloped in porches and white paint. 
Another class of buildings was erected when the prospect of railroads was 
encouraging. Two-story brick stores were substituted for one-story frames, 
and the handiwork of early settlers who had by this time become independent 
in circumstances, was seen in the improved style of residences that were built 
under their direction. Lastly come edifices which belong to the era of railroad 
communication, palatial residences, stately churches, brick blocks, halls and 
establishments where gas-light revels amid wealth and taste. 

The young city had lengthened her cords and strengthened her stakes 
with the increase of years, and everywhere were to be seen, as the decade clos- 
ing with the dawn of 1860 winged its flight, indubitable evidences of prosperity 
and refined culture. 

But this state of affairs was only secured after enduring privations, exhib- 
iting enterprise and encouraging improvements, even during the dark days of 
1857, when hard times were the most prominent perspectives visible in the 
picture of the future. The panic of that year has been referred to already, and 
is only suggested in connection with its effects, which became visible in the 
city between that date and during the years immediately subsequent. 

When the panic came on, the business directory of the city showed a total 
of forty-eight dry goods and grocery stores, five drug stores, ten clothing stores, 
four furniture establishments, five saddle and harness shops, two book stores, 
three banks, two confectioneries, four hardware stores, five bakeries, two gun 
shops, four jewelry stores, four meat markets, one hat store, seven boot stores, 
three liquor, two cigar and tobacco, and two paint and oil stores, twelve hotels, 
six millinery establishments, five agricultural implement agencies, two daguer- 
rean galleries, one brass foundry, nine forwarding merchants, one sash and 
blind factory, one soap and candle factory and three auction and commission 
rooms. Besides these, there was a full quota of attorneys, physicians and pro- 
fessional men, three weekly and one daily newspaper, and a list of manufact- 
ories, including the Manny Reaper, Williams Threshing, DeArmits Plow and 
Stiles & Griffiths Fanning Mill Factories. From this it will be seen that there 
were few idle hands to engage in mischief. When the financial revulsion 
reached Freeport, to express it in the language of one who was on the ground 
and witnessed its effects, ' k the bottom fell out completely." Excessive bank 
issues, over-trading, and the rage for speculation in Western lands, brought with 
them the terrible train of evils, which spread over the country like the wings 




^ Jf^ M^Ue 



EPORT. 




HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 387 

of an Angel of Death. It was several years before Freeport recovered its 
spirits, and a healthy growth was substituted for deterioration caused by 
"tight" and "dull" times, the natural outgrowth of 1857, and the concomi- 
tants which attended that year. 

The year 1860 opened with intensely cold weather. On New Year's 
Day the mercury marked 32° below zero, and this exaggerated visitation 
remained for several days. This year was noted for no particular circumstance 
of note until the nomination of Lincoln, his subsequent election and the pro- 
ceedings that succeeded that event, which are treated of in another portion of 
this work. 

During the summer a horse drover, from Pine Creek, Ind., was murdered 
near Lena, and for a time no trace could be obtained of his assassin. The body 
was found, it is stated, by one of Capt. W. R. Goddard's children, and its iden- 
tity established by means of a memorandum found in one of the pockets of a coat 
worn by deceased. The mystery was finally solved by the arrest of his mur- 
derer at Elkhorn Grove, and his removal to Freeport in 1865. His name is 
stated to have been William Ridgley. He was retained in Freeport until it 
was generally understood that no prosecution would follow his detention, when 
he was released. 

In 1861, the firing upon Sumter created an excitement corresponding to 
that witnessed throughout the North. Meetings were held to denounce the 
"treason," money subscribed to aid in the enlistment and equipment of troops. 
Liberty poles were elevated, and patriotism without limit invested the city and 
county. This was maintained up to the close of the war, and to-day, similar 
causes, direct or collateral, would inspire the people with similar sentiments 
find expression in similar manifestations. 

Improvements were not in harmony with the war spirit of the times. Had 
this been the case, the streets of Freeport would have been lined with buildings 
and the highways with homes. The results of 1857 were not dissipated by the 
excitements growing out of the contest, and, when the first ebullition had 
exhausted itself, trade resumed its wonted quiet. The most important improve- 
ments completed between 1860 and 1865 were, among others, Taylor's Block, 
Fry's Block and Munn's Block, on Stephenson street ; the organization of the 
First and Second National Banks, and the building and furnishing of the 
woolen-factory, on the east side of the Illinois Central track, north of Stephen- 
son street. This important interest was rendered practicable through the enter- 
prise of C. H. Rosenstiel, W. S. Gray and L. F. Henderson, who expended 
$50,000 in putting it in order, and conducted it for several years. They were 
succeeded by Thompson & Blanchard in 1873, the latter remaining in charge 
until 1877, when the works suspended. They are still owned by C. H. Rosen- 
stiel and J. I. Case, the latter of Racine, Wis., but are unoccupied. 

After the war, the improvement of property and the decoration of grounds 
became more general, and the forest of trees in which the city is now located 
dates its growth from 1864. Up to that time there were, comparatively, no 
shade-trees in the city, and frequent complaints were made thereat. To-day 
the shade and ornamental trees to be found within the city are said to be 
entirely too numerous for health. 

One of the most violent storms that has visited this section in the last 
eighteen or twenty years, burst over the city about 4 o'clock on Saturday after- 
noon, June 19, 1869. For three hours the water fell in torrents, the wind 
blew a gale, the lightning darted across the heavens, and the elements held a 
high carnival. A second deluge for a time seemed imminent and by no means 



388 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

improbable. To estimate the amount of damage done by the storm, or to detail 
any or all of the attending incidents, is impossible. In town the greatest 
amount of damage was done along the banks of the little creek which runs 
through the city just south of Galena street. The water soon overflowed the 
banks of this, and began running over the bridges crossing them, and invading 
the cellars and houses within its reach. All communication between the busi- 
ness centers and the south part of town was cut oft". Those living on the hill 
and who happened to be caught down town assembled on the banks of the 
creek and contemplated the scene with dismay, their prospects for supper and 
a visit to their households growing gradually and beautifully less ; while past 
them rushed a mass of floating debris sufficiently attesting the damage being 
done by the flood elsewhere. The mustard factory on Van Buren street, and 
several other buildings were nearly submerged, while the cellars of Keuhner's 
furniture store, the lower story of Fehley's turning-shop, Pattison's machine- 
shop, and cellars of dwelling houses, not only along the banks of the stream, 
but all over town, were flooded to a greater or less extent. The culvert and 
bridge on Spring street, between Exchange and Jackson, was raised from its 
foundation and badly injured ; the abutments of the Exchange street bridge 
were also partially washed away. At Chicago street the sidewalk on both sides 
of the bridge was washed away for a considerable distance, the railing on the 
east side of the bridge and a portion of the sidewalks destroyed, the premises of 
John Hoebel, invaded and a large bee-house standing on the banks of the 
stream containing a number of hives washed away. More or less damage was 
done at Pattison's machine-shop, and at the gas works, but the greatest loss in 
town probably was that sustained by John B. Taylor, whose extensive tannery 
on Jackson street was seriously damaged, the dam being washed away, two of 
the vats washed out, and some eighty cords of bark and about forty sides of 
leather floated off. Mr. Taylor's loss was variously estimated at from $3,000 
to $4,000. The culvert under the track of the Illinois Central Railroad just 
below the tannery was badly injured, about one-half of it being washed 
away and caved in. All over town large trees were blown down or bereft of 
one-half of their branches. 

A large brick house, 30x24, at the corner of Locust and Pleasant streets, 
which Mr. Waddle was building for D. A. Knowlton, was badly injured, the 
south and east walls being blown down, and together with joists, window frames 
and door casings, thrown in one incongruous mass in the cellar below. The 
brick-layers had just completed the walls a few hours before the storm came 
on, but not in time to allow the carpenters to put on the rafters which would 
probably have braced and saved the walls from falling. 

Of course, the cellar of Plymouth Block and those of buildings in process of 
erection, was flooded. At the corner of Van Buren and Stephenson streets the 
water broke through the gutter and invaded the barber shop under Messrs. 
Pelton & Co.'s jewelry store. John Hoebel's saloon was also invaded, as was 
the cellar of Messrs. Middleditch, Potter & Co.'s wholesale liquor establishment, 
in Capt. Young's new block. 

Near the gas works, a boy named Burns, twelve or fourteen years of age, 
attempted to reach in and secure one of the hives of honey that had floated 
down from Hoebel's apiary, and in so doing fell in the water and was carried 
along down stream under two bridges, the rapidity of the current being such 
that he did not sink. He finally caught hold of some bushes and saved himself 
just as he was about to be washed under the railroad culvert. He escaped 
with some slight bruises about the head and a good scare. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 389 

Taken all in all, the damage done to buildings and other property in this 
vicinity probably figured up not less than $50,000 or $60,000. 

The year 1870 gave bright promise for the future, and the decade to which 
this was the introductory annual has not altogether failed of a fruition of this 
promise. 

The new court house, the sugar factory, Germania Hall and other build- 
ings have gone up since its advent, and still are prominent features of attrac- 
tion in her midst. In all respects the city is prosperous and desirable both for 
business and residence purposes. The religious spirit predominating is evinced 
by the number of religious societies and places of worship existing in the city. 
The system of public schools, as organized and graded, is not surpassed by any 
employed elsewhere in the State. They are divided into primary, grammar 
and high school departments, each department being subdivided into grades, 
and the whole a perfectly systematized course of instruction, running through 
all the departments of both common school and academic education. 

The societies established in the city, including the Masonic, Odd Fellows, 
Temperance, Workingmen, etc. ; the press, insurance and other interests are 
maintained successfully and in a prosperous degree. 

Few towns are more fortunately situated in respect to ease of access and 
means of travel and transportation. The Illinois Central makes Freeport one 
of its main points on the line to Cairo ; the Galena Branch of the North- 
Western advertises the city as its western terminus, and the Chicago, Milwau- 
kee & St. Paul furnishes a direct line of communication with the Mississippi at 
Savannah and Lake Michigan at Milwaukee. In addition to these, the Free- 
port, Pecatonica Valley & Dodgeville Railroad, a narrow gauge hence to Dodge- 
ville, is surveyed, partially graded, and only awaits the means to promote its 
completion. 

In point of manufactures, Freeport is not inferior to other cities similarly 
situated. As a market for the purchase and shipment of produce, the city has 
scarcely a superior in the West. The mercantile business is rapidly increasing, 
and the wholesale trade approaching an importance beyond comparison. 

In all respects, the city contains attractions that invite the attention of 
immigrants and capitalists ; taxes are light, and other features combine to per- 
suade many persons to become citizens and establish homes in a city where so 
many advantages can be obtained for so limited an outlay. 

OFFICIAL ROSTER. 

Previous to 1850, the village of Freeport was under a Board of County 
Supervisors. In the summer of 1850, the village was incorporated as a town, 
under the general law of the State. The corporate existence of the town of 
Freeport continued until the adoption of an act incorporating the city of Free- 
port, which took effect February 14, 1855. 

Trustees. — Thomas J. Turner, President ; Julius Smith, John K. Brew- 
ster, John Rice and Joseph B. Smith, 1850-51. 

Edward S. Hanchett, President ; Silas D. Clark, Thomas Egan, Isaiah 
G. Bedee and John II. Schlott, 1851-52. 

Silas D. Clark, President ; John Black, Walter P. Hunt, J. G. Fuller 
and Asahel W. Rice, 1852-53. 

Peter B. Foster, President, resigned July 14, 1854, and was succeeded by 
Frederick Baker, who also resigned, when Henry Smith was appointed. 



390 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

Peter B. Foster, President ; September 9, 1854, Isaac Stoneraan (vice F. 
Baker, resigned,) appointed, William D. Oyler, Jacob Mover, William W. 
Smith, resigned April 1, 1854, and Henry Smith, appointed to the vacancy. 

Asahel W. Rice, President; John K. Brewster, Warren C. Clark, Edward 
S. Hanchett and Isaac C. Stoneman. 

Town Clerks.— J). H. Sunderland, 1850-51 ; Richard Earle, 1852; Mar- 
tin Krimbill, 1853; G. G. Norton, 1854. 

Assessors. — C. A. Sheetz, 1850; S. H. Fitzer, 1851; Levi A. Mease, 
1852; no returns for 1853; Peter B. Foster, 1854. 

Collectors.— P. C. Shaffer, 1850; J. B. Snyder, 1851; John Barfoot, 
1852-53; John Burrell, 1854. 

Mayors. — Thomas J. Turner, 1855; A. Cameron Hunt, 1856-57; John 
W. D. Heald, 1858; Denard Shockley, 1859; Hiram Bright, 1860; Francis 
W. Hance, 1861; Urban D. Meacham, 1862; Charles Butler, 1863; John F. 
Smith, 1864-66; David H. Sunderland, 1867-68; C. J. Fry, 1869-70; E. 
L. Cronkhite, 1871-72: Jacob Krohn, 1873-74; A. P. Goddard, 1875-76; 
Jacob Krohn, 1877-78; E. L. Cronkrite, 1879-80. 

Aldermen. — John A. Clark, W. G. Waddell, Joseph B. Smith, John Bar- 
foot, A. Cameron Hunt and John P. Byerly, 1855. 

John H. Schlott, A. W. Rice and John W. D. Heald, 1856. J. H. 
Schlott resigned, and H. Putnam elected to the vacancy. 

John A. Clark, Samuel B. Harris and John Hoebel, 1857. 

John C. Kean, Irwin H. Sunderland and Warren C. Clark, 1858. W. C. 
Clark resigned, and J. M. Smith elected in his place. 

Warren C. Clark, Thomas Robinson and John Hoebel, 1859. 

Elias C. Depuy, Chancellor Martin and Moses R. Thompson, 1860. 

Isaac H. Miller, Nathan F. Prentice and Jacob Hime, 1861. 

Jacob B. Kenegy, John H. Beaumont and John O'Connell, 1862. John 
O'Connell resigned, and John Hoebel elected. 

Isaac H. Miller, E. McLaughlin and P. E. Fowler, 1863. 

W. G. Waddell, Jacob Rodearmel and Jacob Krohn, 1864. 

E. L. Cronkrite, Charles L. Currier and J. S. Rogers, 1865. 

W. G. Waddell, J. H. Snyder and Jacob Krohn, 1866. 

August Bergman, Charles L. Currier and Fred Bartlett, 1867. 

A. P. Goddard, B Huenkemeyer and Henry Baier, 1868. 

B. T. Buckley, Jacob Rodearmel and A. J. McCoy, 1869. 

William O. Wright, H. H. Upp and Henry Lichtenberger, 1870. W. O. 
Wright resigned, and Elias Perkins elected his successor. 

J. W. Crane, T. C. Gatliff and A. J. McCoy, 1871. 

Elias Perkins, G. W. Oyler and Henry Lichtenberger, 1872. 

O. S. Ferris, M. Hettinger and A. J. McCoy, 1873. 

Charles F. Goodhue, G. W. Oyler and Henry Lichtenberger, 1874. 

August Bergman, I. S. Zartman and A. J. McCoy, 1875. 

Charles F. Goodhue, George W. Oyler and Charles G. Steffen, 1876. 

A. Bergman, I. S. Zartman and Peter Muldoon, 1877. 

J. H. Crane, D. Kuehner and H. J. Porter, 1878. 

A. T. Irvin, I. S. Zartman and John R. Wagner, 1879. A. T. Irvin, 
resigned, and H. Dorman, elected his successor. 

T. L. Waddell, J.Brown Taylor and H. J. Porter, 1880. 

City Clerks.— R. N. Hibbard, 1855-57 ; J. Bright Smith, 1858-59 ; L. 
F. Burrell, 1860-62; Frank Corbin, 1863; J. E. Brown, 1864; Joseph B. 
Smith, 1865-66 ; U. M. Mayer, 1867 ; Joseph B. Smith, 1868 ; James Durst, 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 391 

1869; F. B. Malburn, 1870-72; William Trembor, 1873-79; H. C. Hutch- 
ison, 1880. 

Attorneys. — John A. Jameson, 1855 ; H. N. Hibbard, 1856-57 ; J. 
Bright Smith, 1858-59 ; Henry C. Hyde, 1860 ; James S. Cochran, 1861 ; 
John C. Kean, 1862-64 ; F. W. S. Brawley, 1865 ; John Coates, 1866 ; H. 
M. Barnum, 1867 ; Thomas F. Goodhue, 1868-71 ; T. T. Abrams, 1872 ; 
John C. Kean, 1873; John C. Kean, 1874-76; 0. C. Lathrop, 1877; John 
C. Kean, 1878-79 ; James R. Stearns, 1880. 

City Treasurers. — E. W. Salisbury, 1855 ; Oscar Taylor, 1856-57 ; 
Silas D. Clark, 1858 ; Frederick Bartlett, 1859 ; B. F. Black, 1860 ; W. W. 
Smith, 1861 ; M. D. Chamberlin, 1862 ; C. L. Currier, 1863 ; Thomas Web- 
ster, 1864 ; John Hoebel, 1865 ; George Lichtenberger, 1866 ; C. W. Rose- 
brough, 1867; Philip Arno, 1868; C. W. Rosebrough, 1869-70; W. H. 
Wagner, 1871; C. Trepus, 1872-73; D. B. Schulte, 1874; Horace Meigs, 
1875-76; Jacob Molter, 1877-78; Henry Ratz, 1879; D. B. Breed, 1880. 

Marshals.— William W. Smith, 1855-57 ; John R. Edick, 1858 ; Henry 
Settley, 1859: David C. Laird, 1860; John H. Mease. 1861; Isaiah G. 
Beede, 1862; Jacob C. Gilbert, 1863-64; Charles Baumgarten, 1865; F. 
R. McLaughlin, 1866-67 ; Charles Rohkar, 1868 ; J. B. Shirk, 1869-70 ; 
George J. Lamm, 1871; E. W. R. Dreyer, 1872-78; E. S. Chamberlain, 
1879-80. 

Surveyors. — Lodowick Stanton, 1857 ; Marcus Carter, 1858-59 ; W. O. 
Saxton, 1860-61 ; Marcus Carter, 1862 ; Charles Baumgarten, 1863-64 ; 
Marcus Carter, 1865-66 ; Lodowick Stanton, 1867; Marcus Carter, 1868; 
Charles Baumgarten, 1869 ; C. T. Dunham, 1870 ; Charles Baumgarten, 
1871-74; F. E. Josel, 1875-76; L. Stanton, 1877; F. E. Josel, 18 1 8-80. 

THE FIRE DEPARTMENT. 

The fact that the business houses of Freeport, as also the manufactories and 
a large proportion of the private residences, are composed of material used in 
their construction not easily ignited, explains in a measure the freedom of the 
city from disastrous conflagrations. This, in conjunction with an efficient, 
thoroughly organized and disciplined department, would render the city almost 
fire-proof, if not an actual salamander. Underwriters would never, or scarcely 
ever, be called upon to regulate the rates of insurance, and adjusters or middle- 
men between individuals and corporations, carrying policies, would be rare. 

Before Freeport assumed the dignities and prerogatives of municipal 
authority, fires were visitations at such long intervals that the most primitive 
means only were employed for their extinguishment. As the settlement became 
a town, gradually approximating in business and appearance toward a village, 
both pretentious and ambitious, the necessity for conservators of the public peace 
and public safety found frequent expression, and they were in turn supplied. 
The judiciary and constabulary sought to preserve the one, while the other was 
maintained by militia and social organizations, supplemented by the bucket 
brigade, which was composed of every able-bodied male resident of Freeport, 
who responded to the by no means numerous alarms which were sounded from 
the belfries of the village meeting-houses. This condition of affairs continued 
for years, rather because there was no occasion for change than because of the 
absence of that quality of public spirit and enterprise seemingly indigenous to 
growing societies. 

On the evening of January, 13, 1854, a meeting of citizens was held at the 
court house to discuss the propriety of organizing Freeport into a city, and in 



392 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

little more than a year from that date occurred one of the most destructive fires 
that has ever visited the city incorporated in harmony with the demands 
made at the meeting convened in January. 

About 2 o'clock on the morning of February 20, 1855, the square 
bounded by Stephenson, Mechanic and Chicago streets, in the center of busi- 
ness and the heart of the city, was the scene of a conflagration which destroyed 
thousands of dollars' worth of property, and, though entailing great damage, 
was compensated for in the creation of a fire department which has since flour- 
ished, and is to-day one of the valuable institutions of Freeport. The fire of 
February 20, 1855, broke out in a building occupying the present site of No. 
79 Stephenson street, then used as a bakery carried on by Spratler & Hoebel, 
and destroyed the stores of Engle & Strohm, hardware merchants, John Hoebel, 
grocer, also buildings belonging to G. M. Clayton, before its advance was 
checked. The citizens formed several lines from the fire to a creek located a 
square's distance from the scene of operations and sought to extinguish the 
flames by means of bucketfuls of water passed from the fountain-head to the 
burning buildings. But this was found to be impossible, and, as a last resort, 
gunpowder was employed to stay the fire's advance, which accomplished its 
object, but not before a loss had been sustained which it required years of care 
and labor to restore. 

Further delay in the organization of a force and procuration of means to 
repulse future attacks of the enemy was not indulged ; meetings were held for 
the purposes mentioned, and the City Council decided to appropriate a sum 
sufficient to enable the city to purchase the engines and equipments desired. 
Action was had on the question without delay, a loan of $4,000 was negotiated, 
leave having been obtained therefor at an election holden December 22, 1855, 
and in September, 1856, two fire engines, the Black Hawk and Winnesheik, 
were set down in Freeport, objects of interest and admiration to the inhabitants 
for miles around. Two companies were at once formed to man the engines and 
guard the city against a repetition of the horrors endured in the spring of 1855. 
These companies were composed of the brawn and intelligence of the city, 
officered by competent men and marshaled by Holden Putnam, who entered 
the army at the breaking-out of the war, and fell at Mission Ridge. 

Upon the opening of hostilities, a large representation from the depart- 
ment enlisted for the war, and did as excellent service in the contest for 
national supremacy as they had done in contests with the elements. This 
had the effect of weakening the force to some extent, and for several months 
their absence was felt. In July, 1862. however, an increase of the department 
was agitated, and a movement set on foot to purchase a new engine for the 
German company. A subscription paper was circulated to raise money for 
this purpose, and a committee appointed, consisting of D. B. Schulte and John 
Hoebel, authorized to expend the fund thus created. These gentlemen accord- 
ingly visited Chicago and purchased the " Torrent," of the department of that 
city paying therefor and equipments the sum of $1,200. It was brought to 
Freeport during the month of August, 1862, christened and established in a 
warehouse, the " Black Hawk " and " Winnesheik " being stationed in the 
engine house corner of Stephenson and Walnut streets. From this event the 
history of the Freeport Fire Department practically dates its beginning. It 
should be stated that the Winnesheik company surrendered its engine to the 
city previous to the purchase of the " Torrent," and a new company was 
organized to be known as the " Union." The " Torrent" still exists and is 
handled as effectively to-day as when first introduced to admirers at Janesville, 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 393 

Wis., in September, 1865, when she carried off the first prize, a silver trumpet, 
still in possession of the company. In the same year (1863), the Union 
and Black Hawk companies surrendered their engines to the city, and, retir- 
ing from active service, left the field clear to the " Torrent " for the space 
of four year3. During this period the city was visited by fires which at times 
threatened to culminate in disastrous conflagrations. All these fires were suc- 
cessively controlled and extinguished by the engine and its company, and to 
their efforts is due the absence of serious loss attending the burning of Steffen's 
brewery, B oyer's store, the Exchange Block and other buildings. 

On September 18, 1866, an election was held to pass upon a proposition 
to borrow the amount necessary for the purchase of a steam fire engine. The 
proposition was rejected, but, in May of the following year, the City Council 
decided to purchase a steam engine, and on the 30th of August of that year 
the engine arrived in the city, where on the day following it was tested. A 
company was at once organized, known as Steamer No. 1, which still continues 
in active operation and contributes materially to the safety of the city from the 
devouring element. This steamer, in conjunction with the Torrent and a hook 
and ladder company, composed the fire department of Freeport for nearly 
seven years. The Black Hawk and Union engines had been disposed of to out- 
side parties ; their usefulness in the city, at least, having long since vanished. 
The resources of the "boys, " although limited, proved to be ample, and no 
demand was ever made which failed of a full and effective response. Yet the 
increase in population, number of buildings and value of interests generally, 
necessitated a corresponding increase in the facilities for controlling and extin- 
guishing fires. With a view to this end, Steamer No. 2, of the Silsby pattern, 
was purchased in 1874, and is handled by a force eminently capable of acquit- 
ting itself in a manner that will commend its efforts. 

The present department is composed of two steamers, one hand engine, 
one hook and ladder and three hose companies, officered as follows : D. B. 
Steck, Chief Fire Marshal ; Andrus Rogers, First Assistant ; Joseph Seifert, 
Second Assistant. 

Freeport Steamer, No. 1. — Foreman, William Weinhold ; E. Chamberlin 
and Joseph Kaley, Assistants ; Secretary, Leonard S. Stoskopf ; Treasurer, 
Charles G. Sanborn ; Engineer, James Edwards. 

Freeport Steamer Hose. No. 1. — Foreman, C. H. Heard ; Assistant, Will- 
iam Musser ; Secretary, L. Karcher. 

Col. Stephenson Steamer, No. 2. — Foreman, August F. Voight ; Assist- 
ant, John Moritz ; Secretary, Albert H. Wagner ; Treasurer, James Stack ; 
Engineer, John Rodemeyer. 

Col. Stephenson Hose, No. 2. — Foreman, Frank Lohr ; Assistant, Richard 
Weik ; Secretary, Jacob Waldecker ; Treasurer, Otto Wagner. 

Torrent Engine, No. 1. — Foreman, Philip Arno ; Jacob Maurerand John 
Kerch, Assistants ; Secretary, Oscar Zeigler ; Treasurer, Philip Burkhart. 

Torrent Hose, No. 1. — Foreman, Louis Brun ; Assistant, H. W. Rotz ; 
Secretary, J. W. Koch ; Treasurer, H. Knauf. 

Rescue Hook cf Ladder, No. 1. — Foreman, Luther Herbeg ; Assistant, 
Frank Hettinger ; Secretary, Frederick Kruse ; Treasurer, F. J. Koehler. 

POLICE. 

The present system, organized some years ago, has served its purpose 
effectively and maintains order. The force is composed of six patrolmen under 
the control of the City Marshal. 



394 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

The department is uniformed and governed by rules and regulations simi- 
lar to those adopted for metropolitan organizations. 

EDUCATIONAL. 

The country schools throughout the West fifty years ago, whether consid- 
ering the buildings, teachers or regulations, were generally of a character that 
would be denominated exceedingly limited. The buildings were usually sorry 
apologies for a modern tenement, or a room 12x14 in some incomplete residence. 
The seats were slabs or puncheons elevated at a distance from the floor, sug- 
gestive of dangerous possibilities to small scholars, who were required to sit 
thereon, however painful the experience. The teacher was ordinarily a man of 
fact, who regarded all else but his duties as fictions unworthy his condescension. 
He always occupied an old-fashioned arm-chair about the center of the room, 
adjoining a small round table, which supported, in addition to the text-books 
comprising his limited course, a birch rod of tried strength, length, breadth and 
thickness, as the pupils had oftentimes had sensible evidence. 

With these surroundings, that would, in this day of superior educational 
facilities, be regarded as discomforts not to be endured, scholars were taught the 
alphabet, their "abs," reading sentences containing words of two syllables only, 
and many other incidents peculiar to school life, which, in that age, inspired the 
intellectual, but to-day provoke the mirthful and cause mental inquiries if 
such things could be. But recurrence to these days often engages the reflections 
of pioneers, who see no compensation in the labor-saving apparatus employed 
to aid ambitious youth in his ascent of the hill of knowledge. 

Gibbon relates that, during a cruel persecution at Ephesus, seven noble 
youths concealed themselves in a cave, when they fell into a sleep which was 
miraculously prolonged for a hundred years. On awakening they found every- 
thing so changed, to conform to the advanced age, that they burst into tears and 
prayed God that they might be permitted to return to their slumbers again. 
Such are the feelings of many who were scholars half a century ago, regarding 
with feelings of indignation the neglected facilities of the present, when fond 
memory brings the light of other days about them. 

The pedagogues of fifty years ago were earnest in their efforts, and the 
advanced state of education during these the final decades of the nineteenth cen- 
tury are, in a great measure, the result of their labors. The pupil of those times, 
too, was a character of the day beyond comparison or caricature. He usually 
appeared at school prompt to the minute, barefoot in summer, his trowsers of 
home manufacture kept in place by a couple of pieces of ticking, to which he 
appropriated the term of " galluses," and his head protected from the penetrat- 
ing rays of the summer's sun by a chip hat, or cap deftly fashioned by a 
mother's or a sister's hands. Thus embellished, the young man of promise came 
early, and from his advent upon the scene to his exit therefrom joined constant 
issue with the teacher with such requests as " Lemme speak to sis," " Lemme go 
out," "Lemme ha' a drink," etc., etc., until the expiration of the day's term, 
when he is permitted to go home, where, after the chores are done, he slips off his 
trowsers, hangs them to the bed-post by the " galluses," and, soon reveling in 
the dim land of dreams, becomes forgetful of the trials that will be born again 
with the morrow. 

Among the early settlers of Illinois there were many men of unusual 
ability ; not men of extensive education, but men who made their marks upon 
the times, and, had they received the advantages of early training, would have 
proved themselves giants in intellectual and moral forces. Many names will 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 395 

come to the readers from the fountains of the past, of men who have left the 
impress of their characters upon the sands of time, and pleasant memories to 
those who survive them. The men of thirty and forty years since have nearly 
all passed away, yet a few remain, connecting links of the eventful past and 
buoyant present. In the natural order of things, these, too, mu8t soon be 
gathered home, for Death's sickle, which harvests all flesh, is in constant 
motion. Both those who have gone, as also those who will follow, have left 
enduring monuments to commemorate their achievements, and hand down to pos- 
terity an unprejudiced record of lives spent in providing for the prosperity, 
morality and happiness of generations yet unborn. The growth of those who 
come after them, in knowledge, in mental culture and training for society, the 
management of national affairs, to speed the cause of truth, religion and prog- 
ress in the right direction, were subjects in which the pioneers of Stephenson 
County, not less than the State of Illinois, took a personal interest. A good 
school in settlements was regarded as important in those days as the providing 
of necessaries for one's family, and what the schools are to-day they have been 
made as a result of the efforts employed in that behalf when Freeport slumbered 
in the future. 

In the procuration of facts and data out of which to formulate, at best, 
an imperfect history of the early schools of Freeport, the historian has encoun- 
tered infinite difficulties. The uncertainties of date, location, teachers, pupils, 
studies pursued and other incidents connected therewith, have not been dis- 
puted by facts, simply because facts were inaccessible to research or inquiry. 
With regard to the exact year in which the pioneer school of Freeport was born, 
authorities differ widely, some asserting it was brought forth in the fall of 
1837, other in 1838, and still others insisting that its coming was delayed until 
1839, when a few .children gathered from day to day in an unfinished room on 
Galena street, as pupils of a pedagogue whose name is not of record. The gen- 
eral opinion, however, seems to be that the first school taught in Freeport was 
opened by Nelson Martin, in the winter of 1837-38. His base of operations 
was an unpretentious log house, erected by 0. H. Wright or L. A. Crocker, 
near the bank of the Pecatonica River, at present described as between the 
branch and the Illinois Central track, not far from the foot of Galena street. 
In this modest and comfortless temple of learning, about twenty scholars, com- 
posed of the sons and daughters of settlers in the vicinity, congregated and received 
their first introduction to the primitive manner of impressing knowledge on the 
susceptible mind employed fifty years ago. Among these were Frederick, 
John, Elmus and Thomas Baker ; John, Ellen and Elizabeth Thatcher ; Chloe, 
Ann, Rebecca, Jane, Elizabeth, Orange P. and W. W. Smith ; A. C, Eliza, 
Sara and Hamilton Hunt ; Polly Strockey ; Enos and Salome Fowler ; Michael 
Reed, and Levi, William and Olive Davis. The latter became Mrs. Isaac 
C. Stonemenin after years, and died in Freeport May 26, 1880, one of the oldest 
lady settler in the vicinity at the time of her death. Mr. Martin opened 
school under reasonably favorable auspices, and began the education of the pio- 
neer youth with a reasonable promise of realizing his object. Learning in those 
times, especially among the young and unmarried, of both sexes, was an unknown 
quantity of bliss all yearned to experience. The opportunity presented was 
flattering, and the effort was made to aid those who were ambitious to avail 
themselves of this opportunity. According to sources of information, presum- 
ably authoritative, there were no sessions of school during the presence of the 
summer solstice, their initial opening being postponed until that month when, 
to express it poetically, 



396 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY, 

" The russet year inhaled the dreamy air, 
Like some tanned reaper in his hour of ease, 
When all the fields are lying brown and bare." 

The new dispensation in the wilderness progressed without the happening of 
any notable event to disturb the serenity of its daily existence from frost, until 
winter, with its aged locks, appearing upon the scene, completed the ruin of the 
foliage and gathered the swift-flowing Pecatonica in its icy embrace, when an 
incident occurred which is said to have put a period to "•school-keeping," and 
temporarily embargoed the cause of education in the vicinage. It seems that 
Mr. Martin had admonished his pupils to restrain their impetuous desire to test 
the strength of the ice on the river, accompanying his admonition with the 
promise that those who failed to be governed accordingly would receive the 
butt end of the law. John Thatcher, however, with confidence in the substan- 
tial quality of the forbidden ground, disregarded the injunction, and was called 
upon to plead, answer or demur to its violation. His inability to submit an 
acceptable defense was followed by the imposition of the penalty, which was 
administered with such fidelity that the "school" — excepting the Davis and 
Hunt children — becoming appalled at a sense of their insignificant capacity for 
resistance should they be similarly tempted and punished, withdrew their patron- 
age, and after a few weeks of uncertainty the school was closed. 

Another summer was passed without any effort on the part of teacher or 
pupil to reach an understanding, but in the fall a Mr. Everett made his appear- 
ance, and in the winter of 1838-39 wielded the birch in the same school edifice, 
the attendance including Rivers Fowler, the Wilmot children, W. H. and H. 
W. Hollenback, A. P. Goddard and a few others, in addition to those who the 
previous year, Gamaliel like, had sat at the feet of Mr. Martin. The glory of 
this institution departed with the advent of spring. F. D. Bulkley also is said 
to have taught this season. During the summer, the little building — 14x10, seven 
feet high to the eaves, and with but one window — after serving the purpose of 
a "grocery," with all that the term implies, was hitched to a "breaking team" 
and moved up town near to where the opera house now stands, where it was set 
up for a schoolhouse and church. School was taught in it that winter by Fred- 
erick Buckley, and on Sabbath days there was preaching, at which Gen. John 
A. Clark and Col. T. J. Turner, with a lady singer, made up the choir. A 
few years after, the building was removed once more, and became a cow-stable, 
serving in that capacity until it was burned down. 

About 1840, Miss Wright, who subsequently married L'. 0. Crocker, taught 
school in a frame house at the corner of Galena and Chicago streets, erected in 
the fall of 1836 by William Kirkpatrick. The premises remained intact until 
quite recently, when they were torn down to give place to the present handsome 
brick structure, occupied by Hoebels & Moogk's drug store. Rothilda Buck 
also taught here, as did Lucinda and Marilla Williams; the latter subsequently 
became Mrs. Beaushaine, of Webster City, Iowa. After these, Judge William 
Buckley administered the internal affairs of a schoolhouse erected by Mr. 
Knowltun for the purposes of aiding in the cause of education, and the build- 
ing of Knowltontown, then in its infancy. 

Early in the forties, the growing population requiring increased school 
facilities, arrangements were made for building what is remembered to-day as 
the " old red schoolhouse," although it long since met the ultimate fate of frame 
buildings. It was built by subscriptions collected from householders and 
bachelors, which latter, it might be observed, were by no means scarce in the 
community, and completed, some say, in 1843. The building was a one-story 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 397 

frame, 18x30, stood on the present site of Wertman's wagon-shop, and was 
painted red, from which remarkable feature its name was derived. The cost of 
the building is stated to have been about $300. In this house, D. H. Sunder- 
land opened school during the winter of 1845-46, remaining through the 
term at a monthly compensation of $20 and " found ;" in other words, " boarding 
round." His average attendance was about fifty pupils daily, including all 
nationalities and colors, and to Mr. Sunderland belongs the honor of prepar- 
ing Maj. Gen. John M. Schofield for the military distinction that official has since 
acquired, for he was a scholar in the " red schoolhouse " and sat among the boys. 
Here, too, came "Black Abe," a senegambian household colporteur, employed 
in the family of "Father" Brewster, but anxious to be a scholar and with the 
scholars stand ; notwithstanding which some of these declined to amend the exist- 
ing prejudice toward emigrants from Afric's burning sands, considerable 
trouble was occasioned. Abe was placed at the same desk ( the only one hap- 
pening to be vacant at the time) occupied by a student named Silas . Silas 

rebelled at this intrusion, and, upon returning home at the close of the day, 
related his grievance. The next morning Mrs. visited the school in a con- 
dition of mind the opposite of cheerful, and defined her position with an absence 
of ambiguity that was convincing. Mr. Sunderland was young and modest in 
those days, and accepted the situation without demurrer; but after the calm 
which succeeds the storm, made its appearance, Mr. S., by an eloquence per- 
suasively irresistible, acquitted himself of blame, and obtained pardon for Abe, 
who remained a scholar and toiled up the hill of science to the famous rule of 
three. 

Other teachers succeeded Mr. Sunderland, but in time the building was 
changed into a livery stable, and, one night, went up in smoke. 

The following is said to be a list of teachers who figured in the early days 
of Freeport, but, departing, neglected to leave behind them either metaphorical 
foot-prints in the sands of time, or tangible evidences of their existence to 
guide the historian "in his laborious research after facts : Nelson Martin, 
1837-38; F. D. Bulkley, 1839 to 1842; Mr. Everett, 1839-40; Frederick 
Buckley, Miss Wright. 1841-42 ; Rothilda Buck, Miss Cornelia Russell, the 
present Mrs. Hazlett, Mr. Bently, D. H. Sunderland, Judge William Buckley, 
the Rev. Messrs. Coon and Dickey, George Scovill, A. B. Campbell, George 
W. Lutz, Louise Burchard and others. 

The public schools of Freeport were placed under the control and manage- 
ment of the Board of Education of Freeport School District, and the system of 
•graded schools has been in operation now since about 1851. 

The "old red schoolhouse" was used as such until 1850, by which time 
the attendance became so numerous as to necessitate the procuration of en- 
larged quarters, notwithstanding the existence of private schools in the grow- 
ing village. During the early days of school-teaching in Freeport and vicinity 
the means employed to liquidate bills incurred therefor were obtained from 
patrons. This lasted until the act appropriating certain lands in each county 
to school purposes was adopted, when the proceeds derived from the sale of 
lands thus set apart were obtained and distributed until the passage of the 
special act cited, which of course contained provision for the support of the 
schools by the levy of a tax on the personal property held in the county. 

When the contracted dimensions- of the red schoolhouse compelled other 
provisions for the accommodation of the ambitious young idea, it was decided to 
build another schoolhouse that would supply every absence of convenience and 
room complained of. Accordingly, a tax was voted for the purpose, lots were 



398 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

procured on Exchange street, now Galena avenue, and what was for many 
years known as the " Union School " was commenced. This building was 
completed in 1852, at a cost of, say, $3,000, and immediately taken possession 
of for a high, middle, and grammar school, the primaries then being taught 
in the basements of the Presbyterian, Evangelical and Methodist Churches. 
In 1856, additions were made to the "Union School" building at a cost of 
several thousand dollars, and to-day, in complete repair, it gives promise of 
many years of service in the cause of education. ¥ 

During the latter half of this decade, Henry Freeman officiated as Princi- 
pal of the High School, discharging the duties of Educator and Superintend- 
ent until 1859, with such fidelity and success that the good results which fol- 
lowed his administration were apparent long after he dissolved his connection 
with the educational interests of Freeport and became identified with those of 
Rockford. 

On the 1st of September, 1859, an election was held in Freeport for the 
purpose of determining whether a site for the erection of a schoolhouse should 
be purchased and the amount of tax necessary to be levied for defraying the 
expenses of erecting a schoolhouse, etc., at which it was determined to pur- 
chase Lots 1, 2, 3, and 4, in Clark's Addition, and to erect thereon 
a school building at a cost not to exceed $6,000. These lots were accordingly 
purchased, a plan of the building drawn by G. P. Randall, of Chicago, was ac- 
cepted by the Board of Directors, and the erection of the River, now the 
Douglas, School, in the First Ward, commenced under the superintendence 
of H. H. Upp, and completed during the summer of 1860, or in time for the 
fall term of school of that year. The high school was maintained at the union 
school building ; also a branch of the grammar school. The new schoolhouse 
was devoted to the uses of a grammar, intermediate, and two primary depart- 
ments, the remaining primaries being taught in the basement of the First 
Presbyterian and Evangelical Churches. That year school began on the 24th 
of September, and was continued through the winter and until summer vaca- 
tion, under the care of the Messrs. Heald, Buckley & Smith, Board of Direct- 
ors, with George L. Montague as Principal of the High School, remaining in 
that capacity until the fall of 1862, when he was succeeded by M. W. Tewks- 
bury, who continued two years, and gave way to H. M. Barnum. who in turn 
yielded place to W. H. V. Raymond, and he to David Parsons. Nothing of 
particular import occurred from 1861 to 1865 worthy of mention in the history 
of the schools. 

On the 7th of August, 1865, a special election was held in the city of 
Freeport, at which it was determined to purchase lots in Wright & Purinton's 
Addition to Freeport, on which to erect additional school accommodations, and 
a special tax was levied upon the taxable property of the district, wherein the 
school was designed to be located, to defray the cost of the property and erec- 
tion of the edifice. This latter was completed in 1866, and cost a total of 
$17,000. It is of brick, three stories high, located in the Third Ward, at the 
corner of Liberty and Williams streets, and has capacity for the conven- 
ient and comfortable accommodation of five hundred pupils. Its building was 
necessitated by the rapid increase in the number of primary scholars, and, 
upon its completion, the primary departments of the school system were trans- 
ferred from the church basements, occupied almost time out of mind by these 
necessary incidents to advancing civilization, to the "Third Ward," but now 
known as the "Wright" School. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 399 

The directory for the year 1867 was composed of C. J. Fry, H. M. Bar- 
num, F. W. S Brawley and G. G. Alvord, and at a meeting thereof convened 
September 2 of that year, the office of Superintendent was formally created. 
Previously, the Principal of the High School was informally charged with a 
general supervision of the schools; but with years the duties of Principal 
became more onerous and exacting with the result quoted, and Mr. Alvord was 
appointed to the trust. 

At the meeting of the board held on January 1, 1868, the President was 
authorized to purchase Lots 12, 13 and 14, in Block 2, of Knowlton's Second 
Addition to Freeport, for school purposes. Acting upon this suggestion, the 
lots were bought for the sum of $1,200, and the erection of the Lincoln Avenue 
School, in the Second Ward, was ordered, according to plans submitted by Alex- 
ander Smith, to whom was awarded the contract for building. 

The same causes which compelled the erection of the Third Ward School 
prevailed in connection with the Lincoln Avenue School. Most of the schools 
below the grammar school had been crowded with pupils during a greater part 
of the year, and became an evil, so pronounced in its effects, that, unless it was 
remedied, many of the pupils would be denied the privileges of an education. 
Hence, the purchase of the lots mentioned, and efforts made to supply the 
absence complained of. 

During 1868, the School Board was composed of C. J. Fry, H. M. Bar- 
num and F. W. S. Brawley, Ezrom Mayer, Treasurer, and L. W. Guiteau, 
Alternate. The total receipts amounted to $20,244.60, and the expenditures to 
117,610.03. 

The new school was completed and occupied within a few days of the com- 
mencement of the fall term of 1868, at a total cost of $12,465.77, and there- 
after the primary departments found an abiding-place in that and the Third 
Ward, or Wright School. The former is now known under the name of the 
Lincoln School. During 1869, L. W. Guiteau, F. W. S. Brawley and H. M. 
Barnum made up the Board, G. G. Alvord continuing as Superintendent and 
remaining in that capacity until the advent of C. C. Snyder, the present 
incumbent, in 1872. 

During 1870, the board consisted of L. W. Guiteau, O. E. Stearns and 
C. H. Knapp, the latter being succeeded by C. J. Fry in 1871, and Mr. Gui- 
teau by O. B. Bidwell in 1872. Twenty schools were in operation in that year; 
also in 1873 ; in the latter year, German was included in the curriculum, but 
the board remained unchanged. 

The school year closing July 13, 1874, had been attended with gratifying 
results. Twenty-one schools were conducted during a greater portion of the 
year, employing twenty-six teachers and a Superintendent, at an expenditure of 
over $18,000, and furnishing the means of education to 1,406 scholars. The 
board remained as noted, but, in 1875, J. M. Bailey succeeded O. B. Bidwell, 
which was the only change recorded during that year. 

In 1876, the number of schools was increased by the addition of one 
department in the Third Ward School, necessitating a corresponding increase 
in the number of teachers and amount expended therefor. This condition of 
affairs was maintained during the year 1877, under the board composed of J. M. 
Bailey, Jacob Krohn and Frederic Bartlett. At a meeting of these gentlemen, 
convened July 7, 1877, it was resolved to select and purchase a suitable site for 
a schoolhouse, which should be erected for the accommodation of high school 
purposes, and on the 30th of the same month it was iecided to raise the sum 
of $4,000 by special tax on all the taxable property of the district to defray the 



400 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

expenses incident to the undertaking. These preliminaries having been dis- 
posed of, Frederic Bartlett, on behalf of the board, purchased Lots 1 and 2 
in Block 6Q, of the original town, from Henry Burrell for the sum of $2,000. 
Plans submitted by S. M. Randolph, of Chicago, were accepted, and the con- 
tract for the erection of the present high school, corner of Bridge and Cherry 
streets, was concluded with William G. Waddell, the consideration therefor being 
expressed at $12,000, for which bonds of $1,000 each were issued, bearing 
interest at the rate of 8 per cent per annum, and due in three, four and five 
years from date. Work on the edifice was commenced during the summer, and 
so expeditiously were the efforts toward its completion directed that the build- 
ing was accepted and occupied at the opening of the spring term, 1878, at a 
total cost of upward of $14,000. 

Jacob Krohn, Frederick Bartlett and W. O. Wright constituted the Board 
of Education during 1878 ; in 1879, Mr. Krohn was succeeded by W. G. 
Barnes, and Mr. Bartlett by Henry J. Porter in 1880. 

Mr. C. C. Snyder, whose election as Superintendent in 1872 has been men- 
tioned, has remained in charge up to i the present date. Within this period, 
facilities for the efficient management and conduct of the schools have been 
greatly multiplied, the grade re-arranged, the course of study revised upon a sub- 
stantial and thorough common-school basis, and such improvements in the mode 
of instruction, classification and gradation in all of the departments introduced 
as have placed the schools of the city among the foremost in the State. 

To keep pace with the increase of attendance, new departments have been 
opened, the corps of teachers has been augmented, and other improvements per- 
fected, so that, with an attendance of sixteen hundred and seventy pupils for the 
year just closing (1880), twenty-eight teachers are employed by the board. 

Formerly, instruction in the German language was confined to the high 
school and grammar school departments, but within a year the experiment of 
having German taught in the lower grades has been ventured. The experi- 
ment gave such satisfaction to the patrons and citizens that the plan of giving 
German instruction to all the children of certain grades who desired it has come 
to be a permanent feature of the city school system. 

The aim of the authorities is to provide for the children of the city, not a 
classical nor academic education, but a thorough, practical knowledge of such of 
the common English branches as shall best fit them for good citizenship and the 
duties of a business life. That this aim is accomplished, is a fact as undeniable 
as it is gratifying. 

The following comparative statement shows the amount of the running 
expenses of the Freeport Public Schools during each of the twelve years 
since the passage of the act incorporating the board, also the number of 
schools maintained each year : 

No. of Schools. Expenses. 

Year ending July, 1868 14 $12,794 46 

Year ending July, 1869 17 13,699 55 

Year ending July, 1870 19 17,177 43 

Year ending July, 1871 19 18,535 32 

Year ending July, 1872 20 16,866 31 

Year ending July, 1873 20 17,999 60 

Year ending July, 1874 21 17,770 14 

Year ending July, 1875 21 17.230 21 

Year ending July, 1876 22 18,231 08 

Year ending July, 1877 22 18,770 81 

Year ending July, 1878 23 19,908 44 

Year ending July, 1879 24 22,403 96 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 401 

The schools are supported by tax on the equalized valuation of property 
in the several districts in the county ; the value of property so equalized and 
assessed is stated at $1,348,609, and the rate $1.30 on the hundred. 

THE PRESS OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

The press is a happy 6gure of speech for the newspapers of a city, country 
or the world. The printing press is the foundation of journalism ; it is the 
mechanical device which makes the profession of journalism a possibility. The 
invention of printing made possible the production of books, but the invention 
of the press made possible the production of the newspaper. The art of 
printing, considered merely with reference to the manufacture and use of 
movable types, has not accomplished a great degree of progress since the days 
of Guttenberg, yet its efficiency has been wonderfully enlarged by collateral 
mechanical inventions. The type of to-day differs but little from the type of 
the fifteenth century, while the press of to day would be scarcely recognized 
by the "press-gang" of twenty years ago; yet it is to the wonderful mechan- 
ical advancement made in the printing press during the last twenty-five years 
that is due the merit of carrying the art of printing ten times as far as it 
progressed alone in three centuries before, until it has finally become the real 
foundation that underlies the splendid superstructure of modern journalism. 

Thus much for the process ; the result is the newspaper. Coster or Gut- 
tenberg invented types ; Adams and Stanhope created the modern hand-press 
upon the model of three centuries, while Hoe, Bullock, Walter and Applegarth 
carried mechanical skill, daring and ingenuity to the wonderful point which 
enables the modern journalist to have the readiest, easiest and quickest mode 
of communication with his readers. The profession of journalism is a small 
part of the labor and thought expended in order that the paper may be laid 
before its readers ; yet his function is that toward which the function of the 
printer, the inventor and the mechanician concentrate. His work is the crown 
and flower of theirs. 

Many contend that journalism is the objective point toward which men 
bankrupt in all other professions, tend their inclinations. The fact that they 
have failed in securing reputation or wealth through the mediums of theology, 
law or physic, argues them to the irresistible conclusion that the divinity 
which shaped their careers disastrously in other departments of life, did so 
with a special view to convincing the subject that his mission through this vale 
of tears was the editorial management of a metropolitan journal. 

Wealthy parents, distinguished public men they are, insist that the royal 
road to journalistic eminence is through the expenditure of resources in that 
connection for sons who have returned from the academic groves of their alma 
mater, eager to relieve their pent-up Uticas through the columns of a daily pa- 
per. He is more "wordy " if anything than were those who flourished when 
Shakespear wrote and Hamlet moralized. Assuming literary magic, he con- 
jures with words in the production of miraculous sentences and by their em- 
ployment colors his airy nothings with rainbow tints. And, though a trifler 
and pretender, his wealth often procures the stamp of wit for pertness, and pro- 
fundity for the empiricisms he lucubrates. But he reaches his level in time, 
and falls, another evidence of the fate of vaulting ambition. Still, the business 
of journalism will continue to be an inviting field for the experiment of those 
having large amounts of money and egotism. 

The true journalist, however, is born, not made, and survives the manu- 
factured article as truth rises above falsehood. And his life is by no means 



402 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

that cheerful photograph the imagination of amateurs ambitious of preference 
pictures to his mind's eye. The popularity of a writer who daily seeks to mold 
public opinion is of a negative character — and yet cotemporary popularity is 
not less enduring than cotemporary codemnation. Bunyan was regarded as 
a crazy dreamer, and Byron was ridiculed by the critics until he lashed them 
into admiration with the whip of scorpions. No argument is needed to prove 
the important role enacted by the press in the drama of social and commercial 
intercourse. To the commerce of thought and in all the walks of life, it fur- 
nishes the only available currency. Whether expressing the verdict of public 
censure upon affairs of state, or singing the praises of a plow-boy till these 
praises soar from the daisies beneath his feet to the celestial fields of a sensuous 
paradise, the press always proves itself an innate force holding in contempt the 
trammels of the schools and defiant of circumstances. 

As in poetry and the arts, so in religion, the laws and sciences, the press 
is the stern, uncompromising agency through which their excellences and defi- 
ciencies are commended or condemned. The capacity to thus protect the weak, 
to mold public opinion, to create ways and means for the universal good, and 
originate enterprises whose blessings increase with years, must be born — it can- 
not be acquired. Culture may soften and polish a superficial capacity, but it 
cannot originate ; it may fashion a giant's garb, but cannot fill it. The strip- 
ping David, armed with his sling, and his strong, untrammeled faith, treads 
the pathway of sublimity as he goes forth to meet Goliah, but had he attempted 
to magnify his proportions by masquerading in a giant's uniform, he would have 
made himself ridiculous. 

In all the departments of life, the press should seek to strengthen the right, 
crush the wrong ; and its teachings ; like the sunshine of familiar faces, should 
be welcomed at the poor man's cottage and the rich man's home. 

The Bulletin, da,\\y and weekly, enjoys a deservedly large circulation, 
proportioned to the careful and able management by which it is conducted. 

The early history of this paper is the story of every undertaking that has 
attained success ; it was filled with disappointments, trials and efforts that 
often proved vain. But it feas survived all these, and, gathering strength with 
its increase of age, has become resolved into a remunerative investment, direct- 
ing Democratic public opinion in Northern Illinois, and conserving the material 
welfare of the city and county wherein it has abided for upward of thirty-three 
years. 

In 1847, the village of Freeport was rapidly blossoming into a thickly 
populated town. The residents were dependent upon more Eastern frontier 
communications, not only for "stores " but also for news of the outside world. 
How this dependence was endured, and sought to be rendered less burdensome, 
and how it finally disappeared, under the influences invoked to that end, has 
already been detailed. During these times, the absence of no agency that would 
conduce to the success of the people and the prosperity of the town, was more 
a source of regret than that of a weekly paper — a medium where the daily 
happenings occurring in the State, county and town, might be recorded for the 
benefit of mankind ; a record containing a transcript of current events, acces- 
sible to all, "That all who ran might read." No doubt the enterprise and 
ambition of the settlers had prompted their efforts to supply this absence, but 
nothing came of their endeavors until 1847, when the birth of the infant, since 
grown to manhood, journalistically speaking, and now known as the Bulletin, 
was announced to an interested and gratified public. 




'Ct^L 



FREEPO RT 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 405 

At that time, the Hon. Thomas J. Turner represented this district in Con- 
gress, and was solicitous, doubtless, that his position upon various questions then 
agitating the body politic, should be fairly represented to his constituency. 
With a view to that end, he projected the Prairie Democrat, and procured the 
services of S. D. Carpenter to conduct the same. Under such auspices, and 
with a limited patronage, the first paper to commence its career in Stephenson 
County was ushered into existence during November, 1847. 

Mr. Carpenter, in the first number, explains the reasons which prompted 
him to come West and embark in the comparatively hazardous business of pub- 
lishing a paper : " We came to the Western country for the purpose of secur- 
ing a permanent location. Various were the means of information, both by 
personal news and friendly communications, to learn the many advantages that 
many towns north of the Illinois River presented. But none gave us the satis- 
faction desired save Freeport. We were attracted thither by the peculiar loca- 
tion and advantageous situation of the town, being a fair business distance from 
Galena and Chicago, with plenty of water-power for all practical purposes, a 
soil and climate unsurpassed by the most fertile plains and salubrious portions 
of Italy, teeming with an intelligent population who, without boasting, may 
safely challenge the world for a greater degree of public spirit and enterprise, the 
beauty of the surrounding country, its undulating prairies and groves of valu- 
able timber, through which the Pecatonica winds its serpentine course to join 
the Father of waters, the unequaled facilities for railroad communications and 
many other considerations induced us to 'pitch our tents here,' and claim 
Freeport as our future home." From this, it would seem that Carpenter, if a 
forcible, was at the same time a humorous, writer. 

The history of the paper, from its initial number until about the time the 
present proprietor assumed charge, is partially clouded. The earlier files have 
not been preserved, and those succeeding until 1870, neither consecutive nor 
complete. As a result, the facts as submitted are derived from the memories of 
the proverbial elder inhabitants, but believed to be correct. 

When the Democrat was decided upon, the scarcity of buildings affording 
conveniences for the publication of a paper was marked, and difficulty was 
experienced in obtaining accommodations. Finally, a room was procured in the 
court house, and work begun. The stay of the paper here, however, was 
brief, and, as soon as arrangements could be concluded in that behalf, a removal 
was effected to the second floor of a frame building located at the corner of 
Galena and Chicago streets, where it remained, as is believed, during Mr. Car- 
penter's administration of its affairs. 

According to the most authentic sources of information, the paper flour- 
ished, attended only by such drawbacks as invariably seek to accompany 
genuine merit. Its publishers made no hesitation in declaring their party prefer- 
ences, advocating Democratic principles as they were distinctly defined by expo- 
nents of that party, yet guided by no prospective or partisan policy in the treat- 
ment of political opponents. All wei'e treated candidly and courteously, with- 
out resorting to obsequous sycophancy or hypercritical condemnations. The 
local department is said to have faithfully related the passing events of the day, 
the literary selections were choice, the miscellany varied and interesting, and 
the agricultural department made up of excerpts from standard authorities. 

Mr. Carpenter continued to go it alone in his dual capacity of editor and 
manager until about 1850, according to the record, when he became wearied of 
this professional game of solitaire and retired from the position he had so con- 
tinuously and acceptably occupied. He was succeeded by J. 0. P. Burnside, 

M 



406 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

and his induction into possession constituted the limit of the changes made, 
there being no departure in the political or general character of its contents. 
Locally, and as the disseminator of general news, the paper had materially 
improved ; politically, it remained Democratic of the most direct character ; as 
a success, that desideratum had been secured. This was to be expected, how- 
ever, for pains and means had been contributed to that end ; and, during the 
years of its struggles and vicissitudes, there always lingered in the breasts of its 
originators the reflection of a journalistic goal, toward which they bent their 
aims and aspirations as readily as the willow to the storm. 

Mr. Burnside remained at the helm for two years, having his office, it is 
stated, near the corner of Stephenson and Chicago streets, and attracting pat- 
ronage, notwithstanding the existence of a rival enterprise which had appeared 
during Mr. Carpenter's control of affairs, and by this time had secured a foot- 
hold. At the expiration of that period, he disposed of his interest to George 
P. Ordway, who removed the office to the corner of Galena and Exchange 
streets. One year's experience created a desire for change, and Mr. Ordway 
re- sold to Mr. Burnside. That gentleman renewed his title to the premises 
(in 1853) at a time, when, it is believed, the original materials of the office, 
having served the purposes to which they had been designed faithfully and 
effectively, were become " decrepit with age," and no longer available; hence 
a change in these respects, being imperative, was made. The old type, rules, 
reglets, quoins, chases, cases, imposing stones and other paraphernalia of the 
office were disposed of and replaced with new. Many other improvements were 
concluded, and in July, 1853, the Freeport Bulletin, successor to the Prairie 
Democrat, was launched forth, made its most profound salaam to Democratic 
and general readers, and began a weekly existence which has gathered strength 
with each succeeding issue. Mr. Burnside was, in time, followed by Bagg & 
Brawley, it is asserted ; they by Giles & Scroggs in 1861, by J. R. Scroggs in 
1864, and by W. T. Giles in 1869. The latter gentleman conducted the 
Bulletin with signal ability during a career of nearly seven years, making it a 
medium of information for all, and, as the index of true Jeffersonian Democracy, 
as fearless as it was unsurpassed by any paper of similar political predilections 
in the State. 

During the seventeen years Mr. Giles was directly and indirectly con- 
nected with the paper, its course had come to be regarded as, in a great measure, 
the formulator of public opinion in this portion of the State. Its sentiments 
were unflinchingly Democratic, and its editorials sufficiently plain to indicate 
to their readers that the authors were not journalistic trimmers, nor advocates 
of and practitioners in that school of newspaper education which has given birth 
to pretentious sheets, but sheets devoid of merit — " Independent journalism." 

At the close of the war, the Bulletin defined its position to be that of 
recognizing the results following the contest, but insisting upon a strict observ- 
ance of the law as defined by the constitution for future government of the 
administration. It opposed the election of Grant, in the first instance, but, 
when Greeley was nominated, extended a most ardent support to this ancient 
enemy of the Democracy. In commenting upon the result, the editor considers 
that the election should be gratifying to any Grantite. It was of the kind 
that authorized corruption in every department of the government. If a man 
held office and did not steal, it would be simply because he possessed honesty. 
If the American people preferred dishonesty to virtue, let them have it. If the 
bayonet was to rule the land, let Grant remain in power. Though Greeley was 
defeated, the fight made by the Bulletin was so sincere, so bold and so effect- 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 407 

ive, that the friends who gathered around it then are among its ardent sup- 
porters of to-day. 

On the morning of January 2, 1873, Mr. Giles bade farewell to the patrons 
and friends of the Bulletin, after an acquaintance of seventeen years. Messrs. 
Taylor & Aspinwall would in future have charge of the Bulletin, and, as both 
were well known, their introduction would be superfluous. This announcement, 
however, proved to be premature. The advertised vendees never gained posses- 
sion of their purchase, owing to a misunderstanding which occurred subsequent 
to the sale but prior to the delivery. In the issue of January 9 following, such 
publication was made, supplemented by a second appearance of Mr. Giles before 
the curtain in the roll of an editor upon his farewell tour, etc. That day, the 
paper had been transferred to C. C. Shuler, a well-known citizen of Freeport, 
and J. W. Potter, equally well known as the editor and proprietor of the 
Bolivar (Mo.) Herald. These gentlemen assumed the responsible and onerous 
duties of publishing the paper with the issue of January 16, 1873, and 
promised to make it all that it had been theretofore. In the future as in the 
past, the Bulletin would faithfully battle in the cause of Democracy ; the foe of 
rings formed in the interest of the few to the detriment of the welfare of the 
many ; while being a fearless, outspoken and independent advocate of liberal 
democratic principles, it would be just and candid to its adversaries and true to 
its friends. It would be made the true exponent of the city's business inter- 
ests, and a faithful and reliable friend to every enterprise organized in the 
interest of the neighborhood. 

Mr. Potter was detained in Missouri for a brief period, but soon estab- 
lished himself in his new residence and took active charge of his purchase, 
directing the molding and formation of its editorials, and generally assuming 
care of the internal affairs of the office, with H. Clay Bray assisting as local 
editor. The columns of the paper under the new management were found to 
deserve the congratulations extended, presenting a persuasive appearance that 
was irresistible, and enlarging the circle of its readers beyond what the most 
sanguine of its friends had anticipated. After five months' experience, the 
encouragement extended became so substantial and the supplies of news so gen- 
erous that it was found necessary to enlarge the sheet to dimensions commensurate 
with the increasing demands for " space." Accordingly, this was done, the Bulle- 
tin appearing in its new dress on Thursday, June 19, 1873, and presenting a 
gratifyingly neat and attractive appearance. The paper by this improvement 
was lengthened two inches ; a column was added to the page, making a total of 
eight columns, which, with the typographical and other new features, strength- 
ened its claims to consideration, and rendered a liberal patronage the more 
secure. Under such advantageous auspices, the Bulletin began its tenth year as 
such, and continued to shed an influence around its extended circle of admirers, 
as the influence of a spring day is felt when the blue skies shine like blessings, 
and the sunlight flicker streams through a veil of fleecy clouds in slanting 
golden lances. 

In the issue of October 29, 1874, the partnership was dissolved, and Mr. 
Shuler, after many months of uninterrupted intercourse with his readers, laid 
down the pen and grasped them by the hand to say "good-bye." Mr. Potter 
thus succeeded to the entire charge of the paper, and, though disclaiming to be 
a man of brilliant promises, he should keep the Bulletin up to its standing, 
making it acceptable to the family circle and commending it to all for its unrivaled 
excellences. Mr. Shuler removed to Iowa, where he engaged in banking, and 
still remains. 



408 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

The paper thenceforward and to the present writing has been under the 
exclusive managerial control of Mr. J. M. Potter, assisted at intervals by com- 
petent journalists. And, though the experiment of conducting a paper success- 
fully single-handed has been heretofore considered almost an impossibility, Mr. 
P. has confirmed an exception to the rule, and promoted the measures of reform 
in State and county affairs, which have since crystallized and been recognized as 
indispensable. 

Politically, the Bulletin has continued to maintain an attitude consistent 
with its earlier convictions and proclamations. It has been unfaltering in its 
support of all measures recognized as constitutional and expedient, and relent- 
less in its attacks upon rings, corporations and monopolies. 

During the campaign of 1876, the paper advocated a reform from the 
"villainies" which had characterized the Grant administrations, no matter 
what means it might be found necessary to employ, so the same were in harmony 
with the law. The nomination of Hayes was necessitated by the position into 
which Grant had placed his party ; the people could only be deceived by 
throwing the whole crew overboard, and asking " unknown, unhonored and 
unsung" Republicans to accept the chance of defeat. The nominees of the 
Republican party were merely figureheads for Morton and Blaine, and the 
reform promised and proposed was a mockery, a delusion and a snare. In these 
opinions the Bulletin indexed the conclusions of its subscribers. 

During the pendency of a decision, the paper, as may be supposed, 
earnestly labored for the election of Mr. Tilden, under whom there would be no 
San Domingo infamy, safe burglary, whisky ring, Babcock, Belknap, Robeson, 
Delano, Williams, or Black Friday, and the White House would neither 
become a retreat for thieves, nor a haven for felons, as the Cabinet would not 
become an asylum for imbeciles. 

The result of the election was regarded by the paper as a victory for the 
Democratic candidates, and it insisted that they should be inaugurated. When 
the Commission was proposed it denied the constitutionality of the measure, and 
insisted that it should not be substituted for the law on the subject as it stood ; 
in short, that to violate the Constitution was the destruction of the Government. 
When the Commission was agreed upon, the Bulletin accepted its innovation as 
the will of the majority, and gave the measure its cordial support. When it 
became apparent what the decision of the Commission would be by the 
shadows preceding that event, the paper, in commenting on the "special plead- 
ing" indulged, stated that by a strictly party vote, the Commission appointed 
to inquire into the Presidential question, decided not to go behind the returns 
in the Florida case. They will, however, inquire into the eligibility of electors. 
By this decision the most gigantic frauds may go unquestioned. The people 
would now have an opportunity of testing the non-partisan character of the 
Supreme Court Judges by their decision in the Oregon case, when it will be 
necessary to go behind the Governor's certificate in order to elect Hayes. 

When the question was practically decided in favor of Hayes by the re- 
fusal of the Commission to go behind the returns, the Bulletin accepted the 
ultimatum, but, in an editorial dignified and forcible, submitted its apprehensions 
as to the situation, from which the following is taken : 

"As predicted by the Bulletin last week, by the usual strict party vote of 
eight to seven, the Electoral Commission of last Friday decided : First, that 
no evidence whatever should be received in the Louisiana case ; and secondly, 
that the vote of the State should be counted for Hayes. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 409 

" The Democratic counsel offered to prove that the Returning Board of 
Louisiana was a body not recognized by the State Constitution ; that it was 
not organized in accordance with the law creating it ; that even if it 
was constitutional and legally organized, it had no jurisdiction over the re- 
turns for Presidential Electors ; that the method of its procedure violated the 
law in every particular ; that its findings were the exactly contrary of the truth ; 
that its decisions were influenced by corrupt motives ; and that two of the Re- 
publican electoral claimants were ineligible under the Constitution of the 
United States ; in a word, that the so-called Hayes electors were not elected, 
and the Tilden electors were. Evidence to establish the several points was sep- 
arately offered, and in each instance ruled out by the eight Republicans of the 
tribunal. 

" The only point the Republican counsel contested was the constitutionality 
of the Returning Board. They did not deny that Louisiana had elected the 
Tilden electors by majorities ranging from 6,000 to 10,000. They did 
not deny that the four unhanged scoundrels of the board disfranchised 13,000 
American citizens. They did not deny that these villains had for weeks been 
attempting to peddle the electoral vote of the State to whoever would buy. 
They denied nothing. They merely fell back on the partisan majority on the 
Commission, and reiterated again and again that the American people had no 
recourse but to submit to the inauguration of a man they had never elected. 

" The act creating the Commission provides that it shall have such powers 
(that is, as respects the certificates submitted to it) as now possessed by the two 
Houses of Congress acting separately or together, and since Congress, as we 
have just shown, does possess the power of going behind the returns, and has 
always exercised that power, it is plain that both the Constitution and the 
electoral act authorize the commission to take evidence as regards the merits of 
the case, and the refusal of the majority to do so can be accounted for upon no 
other hypothesis than that the eight genteel compounders of felony have will- 
fully, knowingly, coolly, set themselves to the task of counting Hayes in, irre- 
spective of the frauds, wrongs, violations of law, usurpations, and perjuries 
with which his path to the White House is strewn." 

The inauguration of Hayes was treated in a similar spirit, and the act 
regarded as the crowning chapter of a history of illegalities and constitutional 
violations from which the Republic would never recover. 

As the years came and went and the wants of the community and the prog- 
ress of the times demanded something more than a weekly paper, Mr. Potter 
determined to meet the requirements of the public by issuing a daily. In 
accordance with this view, the Daily Bulletin was issued on the 18th of Septem- 
ber, 1877, and in every respect equaled public expectations. No apology was 
vouchsafed for its appearance, as in all well-regulated families none is expected 
for recent arrivals. The "bub " was attired in its parent's garments, and, after 
a brief experiment, was set up in business for itself. When this consummation 
was reached and the infant had waxed strong, and his business began to increase 
in a gratifying degree. He then put on a new dress, including a hat, and was 
known on the street, where he offered money to loan, property for sale, houses 
to rent, etc. ; solicited correspondence with a view to matrimony, and, as the 
agent for schemes, news, accidents and incidents, became an invaluable accessory 
to men, women and children. 

The daily is now in the fourth year of its existence, and enjoys a patron- 
age both widespread and remunerative. 



410 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

Both enterprises are owned and edited by J. W. Potter, assisted by 0. Pot- 
ter and F. C. Donohue, under whose " manipulation" the daily has become an 
indispensable acquisition to every household. 

The combined circulation of the daily and weekly aggregates 5,500 weekly, 
requiring the services of eight men, in addition to the editorial force, to procure 
its issue. The investment represents a valuation of $12,000. 

The Freeport Journal, a weekly publication, issued by A. V. Richards & 
Co., is one of the oldest papers in the State, and enjoys a patronage and sup- 
port commensurate with its undeniable merits. 

The first number was put forth on the 22d day of November, 1848, and 
thirty-two years' experience in the checkered ways of the world has confirmed 
the predictions ventured by its founders when they launched their journalistic 
barque on the tide of Time. The merit of the undertaking is due to H. G. 
Grattan and A. McFaddan. The former gentleman came to Freeport, in 1848, 
from Janesville, Wis., where he had previously started the Gazette, and, realizing 
the advantages to be derived from repeating his experiment in the county seat of 
Stephenson County, decided to court Fortune's smiles through the columns of 
a weekly publication. The first paper was issued, as stated, on the 22d of 
November, 1848, and represented the Whig element in politics. It was a folio 
with six columns to the page, and typographically presented an appearance by 
no means calculated to excite hypercritical comments. The advertising depart- 
ment promulgated the existence of Turner & Turner, Purinton & Betts, John 
A. Clark, T. F. Goodhue and Sweet & Brawley, as attorneys ; Martin & Van 
Valzah, physicians ; L. W. Guiteau, D. A. Knowlton, O. H. Wright, S. D. 
Knight & Co. and Jackson & Brothers, grocers ; Emmert & Strohm, drug- 
gists ; A. W. Rice, cabinet-maker, etc. The first page was devoted to literary 
selections, the second page to telegraphic and editorial news, the third page to 
local and poetic fulrainations, and the fourth page to brief paragraphs and adver- 
tising. Taken as a whole, the make-up was attractive, evidencing to the reader 
a disposition on the part of the management to consult the public appetite and 
interest public expectation. The terms at which the journal would be furnished 
were $2 per annum if paid within six months, 50 cents additional if pay- 
ments was delayed, and $3 if not paid at the expiration of the year. 
Advertisements not exceeding one square would be inserted three times for 
$1.50. 

Such were the inducements offered the reading and advertising public in 
exchange for their support. The prospects of success were by no means rose- 
colored, yet the venturesome editors indulged a confiding hope that their efforts 
to civilize and enlighten might not be entirely unappreciated. They had 
assumed the enterprise of publishing a newspaper in Freeport, believing that 
the capabilities of the county were fully equal to its necessary support. The 
population of the county was then not far from 10,000 ; the fertility of the 
soil, salubrity of the climate, and the agricultural and manufacturing resources, 
as also the enterprise and general intelligence of the population, unsurpassed. 
Yet the population was by no means homogeneous ; coherency and unity were 
wanted, and the agency most effective in promoting this unity was the press. 
In the light of these conclusions, the Journal was offered with the conscious 
assurance that its future would equal the present, and, with the efforts that 
would be made to secure deserved success, excel the former period. 

The firm established an office in the upper story of a brick building a few 
rods northeasterly of the then residence of Judge Ormsbee, and began practical 
business. The building, after serving the purposes of a printing office, drug 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 411 

store and other depots for the support of life, the pursuit of happiness, etc., was 
torn down and is now known as the corner of Broadway and Beaver streets, 
and occupied by a handsome frame residence. The headquarters of the Journal 
were retained in the "dilapidated brick building " during its infancy, where it 
grew in strength and excellence for nearly a year. On the 31st of October, 
1849, the partnership of Grattan & McFaddan was dissolved, the former gen- 
tleman purchasing the latter's interest, and thereafter exercising sole control of 
the sheet. The office was at once removed to the second story of a small 
wooden building on Galena, between Exchange and Walnut streets, at that 
time occupied by A. W. Rice as a cabinet-shop. The "old frame" still stands, 
affording shelter to a paint shop, and promises to survive the wreck of matter 
for many years to come. The paper missed one issue in consequence of the 
"bother" incident to removal, but came to the front again on November 14, 
bristling with news which included the intelligence that, at the election occur- 
ring in New York the week previous, the empire State had nobly maintained 
herself against the combined forces of Hunkerism and uncertain Free-Soilers. 

The political utterances of the paper indicated irresistibly the tendencies 
of the people in Stephenson County to be in the direction of principles which 
subsequently found expression in the platform accepted by Fremont and Day- 
ton. About that time, the Constitutional Convention held in California 
pronounced against the introduction of slavery into that State, and the Journal, 
taking this for its cue, predicted the coming of a day when slavery would become 
a relic of departing barbarism in the history of the republic. Subsequent 
events have fully confirmed this proposition. 

As a medium for the dissemination of local intelligence, the Journal, while 
answering that purpose, or, to use an aged but expressive conclusion, " supply- 
ing a want long felt," was scarcely up to the more modern standard, as illustrated 
in the more pretentious sheets of to-day. That which now constitutes palatable 
news, was rarely recorded, because of its absence in part, and also of an indis- 
position to sensational journalism which so readily obtained in after years. 
There were no murders to excite the reportorial imagination, and scandals 
which to-day are displayed in colors, with head-lines of glaring prominence, 
were items of news, which, in those days, came under the ban. 

The selections were culled from the works of standard authors, compre- 
hending poetry and fiction, and the columns "justified" with scientific or 
historical excerpts. 

That portion of the paper assigned to advertising was visibly enlarged 
during the paper's first year, though rates were not increased, it requiring a 
total of thirteen columns to furnish sufficient space for the demands of patrons. 
Taken as a whole, the Journal competed successfully with its cotemporaries 
in fulfilling its mission in point of news, appearance and "make-up," becom- 
ing a source of revenue to the publisher, of information to the readers and pride 
to the community. 

On December 27, 1850, was commenced the third volume of the paper. 
Promises were not renewed, nor was a new line of policy marked out. It 
would be continued as a firm, conservative Whig paper, under the influence of 
no clique, but free to pursue an independent course. It would be the object of 
the publisher to make it particularly valuable as a newspaper, a medium of 
intelligence, both of a local and national character. The editor was cheered by 
the success which had previously met his efforts, and re-assured of the correct- 
ness of the principles it had been his effort to promulgate. He bade farewell 
to a past, which, like the aged and forsaken of men, drop into the grave of 



412 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

forgetfulness, and greeted the future like a hopeful boy, who bounds forward with 
a shout of gladness to run the race set before him. 

Early during this year, the office was removed to a small wooden building 
on the north side of the court house square. The Journal divided the occupa- 
tion of these premises with others, and remained domesticated therein until 
1855. The building itself continued in existence for a number of years, until 
the weight of age and servitude necessitated its retirement from the active 
scenes of life. The site thereof is to-day, in part, occupied by the establishment 
of Bergman & Dorman. 

Mr. Grattan remained sole owner of the enterprise until April 25, 1851, 
when Hiram M. Sheetz became a partner, and the business was conducted 
under the firm name of Grattan & Sheetz until the following August. On 
the 15th of that month, Mr. Grattan retired, and A. McFadden, one of the 
originators of the undertaking, accepted the position vacated by his whilom 
partner. This was the only change Mr. Grattan's retirement produced. The 
paper's politics remained unchanged under the new dispensation, the sup- 
port of the Whig party being adhered to, and the policy of that party discussed 
calmly, earnestly, but temperately. In measures, legislative and administra- 
tive, the Whig creed was advocated ; in local politics, it sought to follow, rather 
than lead public opinion. In all its features, the Journal was so conducted 
that the cause of morals and religion, these fundamental interests of man and 
society, were advanced, and its columns were always open to the advocacy of 
whatever would promote these interests. Its editor also urged the adoption of a 
system of internal improvements, having for their object the development of 
the latent resources of the State and county, etc., including the building of 
railroads, turnpikes and manufacturing establishments, the employment of 
skilled labor, the formation of corporations whereby the good of the public 
might be conserved, and other features which have since been practically adopted 
with profit. 

With the issue of September 24, 1852, the Journal was enlarged by the 
addition of one column to each page, new type was substituted for the " fonts" 
which had begun to exhibit the ravages of time and constant use, and the job 
department of the establishment was prepared for printing in colors as varied 
as those of Joseph's coat. The constantly increasing prospects of the town and 
the paper, and the manifest demand of the citizens for a superior family paper, 
induced these improvements and assured a reasonable degree of success for the 
venture. The enlargement was attended by other calls for additional help 
and consequent expense, and the efforts employed to fill its columns with 
information in the shape of general news, in agriculture, manufactures, com- 
merce, religion, politics, with a " sprinkling of mirth, " were received with 
encouragement worthy the undertaking. During this year, the paper supported 
Scott and Graham for the offices of President and Vice President of the Re- 
public with vigor, and insisted upon the defeat of all candidates who were not 
in favor of confining the institution of slavery to the limits of the territory 
wherein it existed. When the great struggle was over and the triumph of the 
Democracy became a part of history, Mr. Sheetz, who, by the way, directed 
the editorial department of the paper, admitted defeat, but refrained from 
speculating upon the causes which operated to produce such results, contenting 
himself with admonitions designed to prevent a repetition of the calamity in 
the future. 

On the 7th of January, 1853, the fourth volume of the Journal was intro- 
duced to the public. Five years previous, the first Whig paper in Stephenson 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 413 

County was commenced. At that time, the town was an insignificant village, 
and such was the sparsity of population in the county that the enterprise was 
deemed almost a hazardous experiment. During the interval, the paper was 
established, enlarged and materially improved, and was, at the date mentioned, 
on the highway to a permanent success. 

On the 15th of April, 1853, Mr. McFadden disposed of his interest in the 
Journal to Mr. Sheetz, who remained sole owner and director for the space of 
three years, during which period its general character was not materially 
changed, except so far as experience and circumstances suggested improve- 
ments that rendered the weekly editions more acceptable to their readers. 
In politics, it continued to advocate Whig principles, in the belief that they 
were best adapted to the interests of the country ; as a newswaper, the Journal 
was not surpassed by any paper with equal facilities for obtaining news. Edi- 
torially, the endeavor was made to keep a correct record of the growth of the 
town and county, and to speak boldly and independently on all questions of 
reform. It selections were made with reference to the tastes and interests of 
. the readers, and every means were employed to render the Journal not only 
acceptable to all classes, but a welcome visitor to the family circle, the counting 
room, the work-bench and the farmhouse. 

In the summer of 1855, increasing business necessitated the procuration of 
more extended quarters, and the Journal office was removed to the third story 
of Martin's Block, on Stephenson, between Van Buren and Chicago streets, 
where it was "housed " for nine years. The old building still stands and bears 
the marks of age, while the paper it sheltered for nearly a decade has grown in 
strength and influence with the progress of time. 

Mr. Sheetz maintained editorial control of the paper until April 24, 1856, 
when he disposed of his interest to C. K. Judson and C. W. McCluer, who 
acquired title to the property by purchase, and issued the subsequent editions 
for years under the firm name of Judson & McCluer. From this transfer, the 
paper's present series takes its date. 

On taking charge, the new management expended liberally in effecting 
improvements and completing reforms. The paper was enlarged one column to 
the page, and the suits and trappings which had become familiar to the people 
were exchanged for a "new dress" — one which survived the wear and tear of 
time, change of administration, the proud man's contumely and other incidents 
peculiar to the experience of country papers, for nearly ten years before it was 
laid aside. They also ventured the publication of a daily record of current 
events in addition to the weekly. This appeared almost simultaneously with 
their assuming the management of the latter. It was a folio, 12x18, with five 
columns to the page, printed in brevier and nonpareil, and attained a liberal cir- 
culation. It was continued until November 9, 1857, when the prevailing strin- 
gency in money matters and (he difficulty experienced in making cash 
collections induced the proprietors to withdraw the daily from the field of com- 
petition. The promise was made to resume at any moment when the financial 
world gave signs that all was well. But, in default of any favorable indication 
in that direction, the suspension became permanent. 

As will be remembered, the Republican party, as a party, took 3hape in 
1856, and presented Fremont and Dayton as candidates for the people's suf- 
frages. The Journal accepted these offerings, which were regarded as eminently 
proper, and tending to unite in one solid phalanx all men actuated by the 
common desire to stop the onward march of African slavery, and retain it within 
its limits at that time. During the canvass which preceded the election, the 



414 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

Journal was constant and unwavering in the support it offered, and, when the 
result was announced, consoled itself with the reflection that, defeat was caused 
by the perpetration of unparalleled frauds, and a combination of the slavery 
propaganda, under the guise of Democracy and Americanism. 

On the 6th of May, 1858, William T. Tinsley, recently theretofore fore- 
man and assistant editor of the Lyons (N. Y.) Republican, purchased an 
interest in the Journal, and became associated in its management with Judson 
k McCluer, remaining until St. Patrick's Day, 1859, when he sold out to his 
partners and returned to Lyons. 

From the year 1856 up to the present time, the Journal openly espoused 
the cause of human freedom. From that date, it battled manfully and consist- 
ently for the principles which became triumphant in the election of Abraham 
Lincoln. When the question as to the intentions of the Republican party 
toward the slave-holding States was being discussed, the Journal defined its 
position to be, that Congress had the right to exclude slavery in the Territories, 
and it was the duty of Congress to exercise that right. It was the freedom of 
the Territories as such, that was demanded. 

When the surrender of Fort Sumter was telegraphed, the Journal insisted 
that the issue was joined, the case made up, and that but one course was left open 
to the nation. There was but one allegiance, one government, one system of 
law in all our borders. It was a great calamity that the law had been resisted, 
but greater calamities would attend the general anarchy which the secession 
mania would ultimately bring on the people, if not checked, than could possi- 
bly follow from a vigorous enforcement of the laws as they existed. From the 
commencement of hostilities until peace was promulgated, following the sur- 
rendered at Appomattox Court House, the Journal was untiring in its support 
of the Government, and earnest in its advocacy of such measures as were con- 
ceived to be right. 

Judson & McCluer "held the fort" until the dawning of the new year, 
1866, when the proprietorship of the Journal became vested in J. M. Bailey, 
at present one of the Justices of the Appellate Court, and R. V. Ankeny, both 
well-known citizens, under the firm name of Bailey & Ankeny, the former gen- 
tleman wielding the editorial quill, and promising to represent in the columns 
of the paper the great material, social and educational interests of the North- 
west ; to also advocate that course of legislation which would most rapidly 
develop these interests, protect those of capital and labor, and increase the 
wealth, morality and intelligence of the people. On April 9, 1864, the folio 
was increased to a quarto, and was published by the new firm until May 9, 
1866. On that date the interests of the Journal and North- West were con- 
solidated, the latter undertaking being merged into the former, Gen. Ankeny 
retiring from the Journal, and Gen. S. D. Atkins from the North-West. 
The new journalistic venture was thereafter controlled by J. S. McCall, J. M. 
Bailey and M. B. Mills, who remained at the helm until November 1 of the 
same year, when Mr. McCall became sole owner. 

During his administration, a second effort to popularize the institution of a 
daily edition was made. The first issue appeared January 2, 1867, being a 
folio six columns to the page, printed in minion, nonpareil and brevier, and bid- 
ding for readers and advertisers, through the agency of the Associated Press 
dispatches, a franchise still held by the Journal. In all features both the daily 
and weekly equaled expectations. As a party organ, they bore allegiance to 
the Republican party, to which the most cordial and earnest support was 
tendered. As mediums for the promulgation of current events, the news, con- 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 415 

•densed or elaborate, as the occasion demanded, was to be found in their columns. 
But the daily failed to receive the support it was deserving of, and after an 
experience of nearly two years yielded up the ghost. 

After running the gamut of supplying editorialand reportorial pabulum to 
the citizens of Stephenson County and vicinity for two years, Mr. McCall 
ceased to be a practical representative of the fourth estate, and was succeeded 
by Gen. Smith D. Atkins, at present Postmaster of Freeport. 

The varied proprietary experience to which the paper had been subjected 
since it first appeared "an infant," so to speak, "mewling and puking in its 
nurse's arms," was borne out in the frequent change of base effected by its 
owners. In August, 1864, another move was made to the building corner of 
Chicago and Bridge streets, erected by Jacob Kline for the purpose, and fitted 
up with due regard to the convenience of the occupants. Improvements were 
also extended to the establishment itself, including one of Roper's caloric 
engines, and other appurtenances peculiar to a printing office, rendering it com- 
plete in its outfit and capacity to supply every demand. 

When Gen. Atkins took charge the paper was an established fact, and 
during his control of its destiny the hold previously gained on public patronage 
and support was confirmed and extended. The paper was published under his 
direction and name until June 11, 1873, when his editorial connection ceased. 
On that day, he disposed of the concern to William B. Thomas, Dwight B. 
Breed and Charles R. Haws, who assumed entire control, Gen. Atkins retaining 
an interest, however, but devoting his attention more particularly to the prac- 
tice of the law and literary pursuits. Messrs. Thomas, Breed & Haws remained 
as editors and managers until May 26, 1875, when Haws sold out his interest 
to Gen. Atkins, and the old firm was succeeded by that of S. D. Atkins & Co. 

On the 2d of September following, Capt. A. V. Richards purchased three- 
fourths interest in the paper, being the interest controlled by Atkins, and the 
firm became A. V. Richards & Co., under which it still remains. The sale of 
the paper and charge assumed by the purchaser is thus noted in the editorial 
columns of September 8, 1875: 

On last Thursday, September 2, I disposed of my interest in the Freeport Journal news- 
paper, steam printing office and book bindery, to Capt. A. V. Richards, late of Galena, Illinois, 
and my connection with the publication of this paper on that day terminated. Capt. Richards 
is a thoroughly educated gentleman, an experienced and polished writer, was a patriot and soldier 
in the hour of the nation's danger, and has been a Republican ever since he was old enough to 
vote. My late partners, Dwight B. Breed and William B. Thomas, will be associated with Mr. 
Richards in the publication of the Freeport Journal, under the firm name of A. V. Richards & 
Co. From long and intimate acquaintance, and close busiuess association with Mr. Breed and 
Mr. Thomas, I can speak of them in the highest terms. They are both accomplished workmen, 
perfect masters of the " art preservative of arts," both Republicans, both experienced publish- 
ers, both fine writers. I can cordially commend the Freeport Journal to its old patrons and 
friends, believing that under the new management of A. V. Richards & Co. it will be a more 
welcome visitor into the family circle, an abler champion of the Republican party, a more effect- 
ive advocate of the advancement of the material interests of Freeport and the surrounding 
country, and I most earnestly hope that the extensive patronage and wide circulation the paper 
now enjoys, will be largely increased. The subscriptions now due upon the Freeport Journal 
will be paid to A. V. Richards & Co., who will furnish the paper to those who have paid for it 
in advance. 

For the kindness I have always received from the patrons of the Freeport Journal, I beg to 
return my sincere thanks. Smith D. Atkins. 

In assuming editorial control of the Journal, we feel that we are taking upon ourself a 
weighty responsibility. Such a paper, properly managed, can be made a power for good, and 
improperly managed, equally powerful for evil. 

We hope and trust our voice will never be raised in advocacy of other than the right. In 
<he continual combat of right against wrong, we believe in " war to the knife, and the knife to 
the hilt." We hope ever to be found upon the side of all real and genuine reforms. We are a 



416 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

believer in " reform, - ' when it is reform in deed as well as in name. We are opposed to so-called 
reforms that make use of the term merely as a cloak to conceal their real character. 

Politically, the Journal, under our administration, will continue to be Republican. We 
are not of those who are willing to admit that the mission of the Republican party is completed, 
but believe that it has much yet to perform. That it is the purest, best and noblest party that 
ever existed, and that it has not yet reached the zenith of its glory. It is emphatically the 
party of progress, the party of improvement, the party of morality, and the party which is des- 
tined by the people to govern the people, and prove to its enemies the world over, that our sys- 
tem of government is no longer an experiment, but a confirmed success. We shall be both 
conservative and radical — conservative of the radical truths and primary principles upon which 
our government was founded, and radically opposed to all persons or parties who seek to destroy 
or contaminate them. 

Having lived for many years in the adjoining county of Jo Daviess, we feel quite well 
acquainted with Freeport, though personally a stranger to most of its citizens. We have ever 
admired its location, and believe that its future will be a brilliant one, and shall ever be ready to 
aid and assist, in all honorable ways, in the advancement of its interests. We have come here 
to stay, and shall give our entire time and attention to the management of the Journal. We 
feel, however, that we occupy a very difficult position as the successor of Gen. Atkins, who is so 
well and favorably known, and who so well deserves his popularity. 

We do not expect to fill his place, but shall spare no pains to try to make an acceptable 
newspaper. 

Gen. Atkins retires entirely from the Journal and resumes the practice oi law, and we 
bespeak for him a large and increasing practice. His record for the last fifteen years is sufficient 
guaranty for his future. 

He has re-opened his old office in Fry's Block, where he may be found during business 
hours. The former partners of Gen. Atkins, Mr. Breed and Mr. Thomas, retain their interest 
in the Journal, and the patrons of this paper will receive the benefit of their experience and 
well-known ability. A. V. Richards. 

The paper received a " new dress," a new engine and boiler of the most 
approved design was " put in," and much new material was added to the several 
departments. Capt. Richards became managing editor, Mr. Breed local and 
Mr. Thomas foreman. The promises contained in the salutatory were fulfilled 
to the letter ; not alone in the political dispensations vouchsafed weekly, but 
also in the local, literary and general intelligence the columns were the agents 
in disseminating. The job work was equal to any in the county, and the 
firm was enabled to successfully compete with Chicago establishments in that 
line of the art. 

During the campaign of 1876, the Journal experienced the first serious 
trouble since its establishment, and for a brief period its very existence was 
threatened. 

For eight years previous, the paper had been the exponent and principal 
champion of Republicanism and Republican candidates in the Fifth Congres- 
sional District. Mr. Richards being a new-comer and comparative stranger to 
the manor born, insisted upon exercising his discretion, arguing that the true 
province of a political or party paper, was to occupy a neutral position as 
between the several candidates for nomination. For Congress the candidates 
were numerous, and the Journal, without giving expression to its preference, 
published a hope that the best man might win. The nominee of the conven- 
tion was earnestly advocated by the paper,- and his election made the subject of 
congratulation. After the smoke had cleared away, war was declared against 
the Journal ; it is claimed, because its editor asserted his independence and 
refused to urge the nomination of any special candidate. A mortgage existed 
for deferred payments on the interest owned by Richards. Some of the holders 
of the paper thus issued, sought to compel the sale of the paper under foreclos- 
ure proceedings, and thereby obtain control of its columns. The Journal firm 
had become somewhat embarrassed in consequence of the stringency of the 
times coupled with the expense incurred in the outlay of large sums employed 
in perfecting improvements when the office was purchased, and some of these 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 417 

accounts had been put in judgment on which executions issued. These were 
placed in the Sheriff's hands with orders to levy on the office, which he did, 
retaining possession twenty-four hours, when it was transferred to the mort- 
gagees, and Mr. Richards placed in charge. After an advertisement of ten 
days, the property was sold at public vendue to James I. Neff, representing 
the mortgagees, who re-sold to S. K. Miner, by whom Mr. Richards was 
restored to the proprietorship. 

From this on, the success of the Journal under the new management was 
assured, and it immediately became one of the leading Republican papers in 
the Fifth Congressional District. Soon after, Mr. Thomas sold his interest to 
Richards and Breed, who now own the paper. 

The Journal was started when the city and county were yet in their 
infancy. An actual enumeration of the population of the then village of Free- 
port, and the county of Stephenson showed it as not exceeding one-fifth of the 
present number. The paper's early history did not differ much from that of 
other local papers, but its success has been pronounced, and it now stands in 
the front rank of local journals, honored with the confidence and patronage of 
the people, and a source of increasing revenue to its management. 

The office continued at the corner of Chicago and Bridge streets until the 
1st of December, 1879, when it was removed to the very convenient apart- 
ments, especially fitted up for the paper, corner of Van Buren and Chicago 
streets. Capt. Richards is the editor-in-chief, with Mr. Breed as local. 

The weekly circulation is stated at 1,800, and the value of the enterprise 
is represented at $25,000. 

The Freeport Budget. — Politically of Republican antecedents, gradually 
becoming a "stalwart " of the straightest sect, locally furnishing a fair amount 
of news, and personally popular with its friends, the Budget, though a recent 
acquisition to the roll of newspapers in Freeport, has attained a moderate suc- 
cess and generous circulation. 

The rapid growth of Stephenson County in the years immediately pre- 
ceding the panic of 1873, increased not alone her resources, but the demands 
of her citizens for such agencies as would develop those resources, or educate 
the people. Included in these demands, was that, in response to which the 
Budget came forth fully armed for the profession, like Pallas from the brow of 
Jove — making its most graceful bow to an expectant public, on the 10th of 
May, 1873, under the censorship of K. T. Stabeck, M. D., at the town of 
Davis, twelve miles east of Freeport. Christened by the name it continues in 
part to bear, to-day familiar throughout the country, the weakling appeared as 
a seven-column folio, and met with a genial greeting from the thousand and one 
distinguished subscribers who had guaranteed it support. 

The first edition numbered but one hundred and fifty copies, and the out- 
look, especially to a beginner, was not calculated to encourage a belief in the 
support promised. The editor, however, though he stood ready to extend a 
most hospitable welcome to success, was prepared to encounter disappointment 
and court the favors of fortune from a distance. To do this effectually, he 
abandoned physic and the scalpel to engage in the education, rather than 
the decimation, of the public. This required not alone labor and study, but the 
capacity to minister to the appetites of a varied and exacting, if not classic or 
critical, patronage. An opposition paper, though it may espouse the same 
political creed as its competitor, pursues no ways of pleasantness nor paths of 
peace. On the contrary, its life is made up of features which contribute to 
precipitate failure, if that end should ultimately be its portion, and a success 



418 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

that is more than passing, is only attained by the employment of the greatest 
diligence, the possession of very pronounced journalistic talent and unusual 
capacity for attracting substantial support. While it may be contested that 
the presence of these requisites does not invariably promote success, no one 
will -'nsist that success can be conquered in their absence. 

At the expiration of one year's experience, the Budget, of Davis and 
Freeport, had gained a circulation of three hundred, and its editor, assured of 
success in his venture, put forth renewed efforts to the end that disappointment 
should not prevail against him. At this period in its life, the suckling of a 
year previous, had become hardened, as it were, against attack, and began to 
assume the airs that come with years and education. Its proportions were 
increased by the addition of two columns to the page, which with the rest were 
provided with a new dress, cut and fitted after the most approved styles, and 
presenting an appearance in harmony with its age, as also with the fashions of 
the day. That no element should be wanting to render the Budget compara- 
tively irrestible, its number of " coaches " was increased by the addition of 
Samuel J. Davis and the Rev. J. N. Phillips to the editorial force ; one to 
localize, and the other to eliminate facts from the warp and woof of the ideal, 
to be set in double-leaded brevier and scattered broadcast, that those who ran 
might read, and thus be educated up to a proper apprehension of what con- 
stituted "apples of gold in pictures of silver" — metaphorically speaking, to 
smite the rock of reportorial and editorial resources, that abundant streams of 
news and ideas might gush forth. The wisdom of this move soon found expres- 
sion in the increased circulation and popularity of the Budget. As a medium 
of news, it was full in abundance and detail; as a Republican appetizer, it was 
palatable to the most exaggerated stalwart, manifesting in its make-up and 
general tone the presence of a manipulator whose battle-cry of freedom would 
rise above the din of battle between opposing political factions. 

Up to this date, the printing necessary to the expression of opinions and 
news through the columns of the Budget had been executed elsewhere than at 
their place of birth. The lucubrations, scintillations, bon-mots, and witticisms 
that were wont to set the table in a roar were hatched in Davis, but set up, cor- 
rected, justified, printed and scattered broadcast from Freeport. With the suc- 
cess which, what has been written would indicate existed, it was determined to 
effect a reform in this particular; to be self-sustained in fact, as also in name. 
Acting upon this suggestion, Dr. Stabeck, in the fall of 1874, purchased com- 
plete outfits of type and presses, which he removed to Davis and set up, whence 
he dates his first experience in the practical field of journalism. When these 
innovations and additions became of record, Dr. Stabeck's next move was to 
render the paper attractive in its proportions, as it had become in contents, by 
increasing it to a six-column quarto, as roomy in point of dimensions as 
any paper published in Stephenson County. Here his ambition came to 
a. full stop, so to speak, remaining unmoved by the rush of matter or the 
wreck of forms until 1875. In the spring of that year, K. C. Stabeck, 
a brother of the Budget's original sponsor, yearning to become a journalist, 
purchased a half-interest in the paper, and occasioned a change in the 
firm name from Stabeck sole to Stabeck Brothers, the new dispensation being 
welcomed with a generous hospitality by those who were to be benefited 
or improved. Thus relieved from the onerous duties incident to editorial life, 
Dr. Stabeck sailed for Europe, whence he traveled extensively, taking advantage 
of the opportunities afforded him professionally, or dreaming the happy hours 
away in the kursaals or cafes of the continent, weaving his observations there 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 419 

into delightful communications to his paper, and returning after a season of nine 
months to resume familiarity with the actual of life, nowhere more free from 
fancy and idealities than in the editorial rooms of a prosperous weekly. 

At this date, the Budget had assumed the dignities, emoluments, preroga- 
tives and influence of a successful paper. Its circulation had reached 700, with 
a prospective increase in the near future, and happy were the days of its editors 
and backers at the cheerful promise held out by fame and fortune, the hand- 
maids of industry and enterprise. The succeeding two years, during which the 
Budget flourished, were comparatively free from events in the journal's life 
calculated to paralyze its energies or abate its influence; patronage and pros- 
perity combined to render the paper a fact both significant and undeniable, 
and, in 1877, the influence of this "fact" was further extended by its removal 
to Freeport, where it entered upon a more extended field of weekly observa- 
tions and duties. Prior to that event, Mr. Stabeck purchased the Monitor, an 
independent production published in the city of F., and merged it into the 
Budget, with all that the term implies. In this enterprise, A. Keeler was asso- 
ciated with the proprietors, aiding in conducting the paper at its new location, 
while the Davis Budget was still maintained, K. C. Stabeck piloting its edito- 
rial and financial course. 

In the spring of 1878, Mr. Keeler bade adieu to his readers and retired 
from one of the editorial chairs, when Charles R. Haws succeeded to the 
vacancy, remaining until the following fall, at which date K. T. Stabeck 
assumed sole control and responsibility. The Davis Budget was then discon- 
tinued, and K. C. Stabeck deserted the field of journalism for the purpose of 
embracing the profession of the law. 

K. T. Stabeck, M. D., remained in charge until the spring of 1880, mak- 
ing the paper a successful competitor with its rivals for support and influence, 
and arming and equipping the journalistic venture with mechanical and intellec- 
tual aids for supremacy in the contest between political parties then impending. 
In February of that year, the Doctor decided to resume the practice of his pro- 
fession, and, acting upon this suggestion, sold out to Gen. Smith D. Atkins, 
who once more became identified with the " fourth estate," as the head and 
front of the Budget, being assisted in the undertaking by Thurston Stabeck, of 
Winnebago County, Dr. K. T. Stabeck exercising control over the local col- 
umns, which triumvirate yet maintains control, and directs the policy of one of 
the leading Republican papers in Northern Illinois. 

The circulation of the paper is reported at eleven hundred, the investment 
being rated at $2,500. 

The Daily Herald. — The oldest daily paper, not only in Freeport, but 
Stephenson County, first came to the surface on the 30th day of April, 
1877, under the direction of Ernest Seitz, and the mentorship of A. H. S. Per- 
kins. Mr. Perkins' lease of life as editor of the paper was, however, cut short 
after a few weeks of management, and the vacancy thereby created was supplied 
by F. C. Donohue, present local editor of the Bulletin. Mr. Donohue 
remained in charge for nearly two years, during which period he succeeded in 
making the paper an invaluable record of current local events, market 
statistics and other features indispensable to journalism, when he severed 
his connection with the Herald, and associated himself in a similar capac- 
ity on the Bulletin. He was followed in turn by Mr. William F. Gore, a 
Chicago journalist of ability, and a gentleman of extended and varied culture. 
Mr. Gore, however, pined after the flesh-pots of Chicago, and, at the solicitation 
of friends in that city, returned thither to accept a position on the Telegraph, 



420 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

when the Herald was again left without a pilot to guide its course on the 
troublesome sea of newspaper life. The hiatus, though, was not prolonged, the 
vacancy being quickly filled by the arrival of Mr. Charles Vickenstaff Hine, 
also a graduate of the Chicago college of journalism, a scholar and a genial 
gentleman. Shortly after he took charge, Mr Hine and James C. McGrath, con- 
nected with the paper since its organization, became co-partners in the venture, 
and the firm was thereafter known as " Hine, Seitz & McGrath," with Mr. 
Hine in charge of the editorial, Seitz mechanical, and McGrath of the count- 
ing room. 

Up to a period immediately anterior to the meeting of the Chicago Con- 
vention, the Herald was conducted strictly as an independent paper, politics 
being carefully eschewed. With the opening of the campaign of 1880, the pa- 
per espoused the cause of Republicanism, and earnestly advocated the nomina- 
tion of Grant. When the nominations were promulgated they were supported 
by the Herald. 

As a local paper, the Herald has consistently and vigorously worked for 
public improvements, both in the city and county ; and by its aid and encour- 
agement forwarded every undertaking that could add to the prosperity of Free- 
port, and the country tributary thereto. Always a diligent searcher after 
news, the paper has promptly and in acceptable form placed the results of its 
labors in this regard before its readers. Its value has in this respect been 
eloquently acknowledged by the large advertising patronage which it receives 
from all of the solid business men of Freeport. Complete and accurate in its 
news columns, plain and outspoken in its editorial utterances, it has won gen- 
eral respect by its candor, and commended itself to the respect of the public. 

Like other daily papers published in towns of measured resources for news, 
similar to Freeport, at its inception the Herald, a portion of its columns, was 
filled with stereotyped selections, but this was abandoned in time, and the space 
thus occupied filled with readable news. The paper was enlarged to a five- 
column sheet during the summer of 1880, and the twenty columns submitted 
to the readers of the Herald are filled with interesting and profitable reading 
matter. 

Though of comparatively recent date, the paper has attained a wide-spread 
circulation, and represents a valuation estimated at $5,000. 

The North-West. — On Thursday, August 17, 1865, the reading residents 
of Stephenson County were treated to that spice in life to be found in the issue 
of a paper of a purely literary character. A publication, the columns of which, 
comparatively free from politics, entirely free from personalities, scandals, dis- 
gusting, obscene and immoral advertisements, would offer inducements to 
writers of merit for contributions that could be read in the family circle by 
parents and children. With this object the North-West was projected and put 
forth, its initial number appearing on the date above mentioned, by W. O. 
Wright and T. Ormsby, composing the firm of Wright & Co. The paper was 
a quarto, containing forty columns, printed in brevier, and presenting an ap- 
pearance typographically beyond criticism. Its selections were of the choicest 
literary qualities, and its contributions were made from the more accomplished 
and scholarly writers and essayists who flourished during that period. 

The administration of Wright & Co. ceased, however, after six months, and 
Messrs. Atkins & McCall took their position on the editorial tripod. Other 
affairs requiring the personal supervision of W. & Co., compelled them to abdi- 
cate in favor of A. & McC, who, upon taking charge, made their personal bows, 
accompanied by assurances, particularly to the ladies, to make the paper all 





SILVER CREEK. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 423 

that its most exacting patrons could desire. The office and job rooms of the 
undertaking were established at 104, 106 and 108 Stephenson street, where 
the business was conducted by Atkins & McCall, solus, until April 5, 1866, 
when M. B. Mills was associated with the firm, and made the responsible head 
of the jobbing and news departments. 

This arrangement lasted somewhat longer than one month, when the print- 
ing and job office of the North- West was consolidated with the Journal, and 
the business of both offices was conducted from that of the latter, under the firm 
name of McCall, Bailey & Mdls. The former paper was somewhat changed in 
appearance, and issued as "A Weekly Journal of Western Literature," the first 
issue being number forty of volume one. This volume was closed on August 
16, 1866, with bright promises of success for the ensuing years. It had become 
a permanent institution, occupying a proud position among the literary period- 
icals of the day, and possessing a firm hold upon the affections and sympathies 
of the literary men and women of the West. The second age of the paper was 
begun amid the most favorable auspices, containing many improvements on the 
one just closed and recommended to favor by features of excellence theretofore 
unknown to the vicinity. The issue of August 23 was materially enlarged, the 
title page handsomely decorated, and the character of its contents improved, if 
anything, with its renewed hold on life and popularity. On December 13, it 
was treated to a new dress throughout, and in January, 1867, began a serial 
story, descriptive of soldier life during the war. But this was its last active 
sigh, as it were. The effort to procure support for a weekly of an exclusively 
literary character, began to fail from this date, and finally made its quietus 
during the year. Notwithstanding the merit of the undertaking, the superior 
quality of the publications and the character of those who contributed, among 
whom were John Esten Cooke, Wirt Sykes, Mrs. Rayne, Olive Logan and 
others of literary reputation, the scheme was not encouraged, and, as stated, 
retired from the field, after an apprenticeship of scarcely two years. The job 
office was combined with the job department of the Journal office, and naught 
but an incomplete set of imperfect files remain to tell the story, not only of what 
the North- West was, but what it might have become, had the lines of its life 
been cast in pleasanter places. 

The Monitor. — A weekly record of current events, local, State and 
national, was established about January, 1874, by W. T. Giles, one of the 
oldest editors and publishers in the Northwest. It was a quarto, sparkling with 
bright ideas and pungent paragraphs, and, though independent, with Demo- 
cratic tendencies, was never neutral upon subjects demanding decisive action. 
It weekly blossomed forth from its official cradle,' first rocked in the Hettinger 
Block, on Stephenson street, and finally in the Grange building, at the corner 
of Adams and Stephenson streets, and was received by a community which 
appreciated true reform, integrity in the performance of duties, and the fearless 
advocacy of the rights of the people against the oppressions of wealthy 
monopolies. 

Along in 1878, the Monitor was purchased by the Stabeck brothers, 
editors of the Freeport and Davis Budget, for $1,000, was consolidated with 
that organ, and is to-day known among the enterprises which appeared on the 
newspaper horizon of Freeport, and after a season of brilliant scintillatings dis- 
solved from view. 

The Deutscher Anzeiger, a German quarto of pronounced Democratic 
sentiments, first appeared during 1853, under the management of William Wag- 
ner, Sr. Its earlier publications were folios, with five columns to the page, the 

N 



424 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

editorial, local and " scissors " departments being conducted solely by Mr. 
Wagner. Its existence was continued in spite of the obstacles which invariably 
present themselves to enterprise, but are overcome by industry and the happy 
faculty possessed by the originator of adapting himself to the situation. Its 
subscription list was limited, and the patronage measured. But able manage- 
ment has conquered success, and the sheet, which at first was weak, has continu- 
ally grown in favor among the German population of Stephenson and adjoining 
counties, until it has become the leading German paper in the northwestern por- 
tion of Illinois, having a circulation of 1,300 copies, to which additions are 
made weekly. Mr. Wagner continued in charge for a period of ten years. In 
1863, the son of Mr. Wagner became a partner in the enterprise, and has since 
aided materially in accomplishing the substantial results achieved. 

In January, 1868, the paper was changed to a quarto, and, in January, 
1876, an additional column was added to each page. Varying fortunes 
attended the undertaking, yet, at the close of each succeeding year, renewed 
encouragement was afforded the proprietois. 

In December, 1877, Mr. Wagner, Sr., deceased, but the firm name under 
which it was known to the readers, " W. Wagner & Co.," remained unchanged, 
although the several duties of the profession were discharged by the surviving 
partner, who assumed public control in 1879, and still remains in charge. 

In 1874, a handsome and spacious building was erected by the publishers 
on Chicago, between Stephenson and Galena streets, at a cost of $3,000, 
and equipped with all the paraphernalia peculiar to the craft, a job department 
added, and the machinery, presses, etc., worked by steam since early in 1879. 

The Anzeiger is now published as a six-column quarto, furnishing its 
readers on an average thirty columns of well-selected reading matter weekly, 
and offering to advertisers a desirable medium of communication with the public. 
Another item worthy of mention is the fact that the . Anzeiger is the only 
weekly in Stephenson County edited, set up and printed entirely at home, the 
other weeklies including in their make-up either what is known to the business 
as "patent insides," or stereotyped matter. 

Politically, as already stated, the paper is Democratic, locally a valuable 
source of domestic intelligence, and, in other respects, an enterprise deserving 
of the liberal support extended. 

The value of the property is stated at $5,000. 

The Freeport Banner, the latest acquisition to the fold of German 
weeklies in Freeport, made its first appearance in July, 1879, chaperoned by H. 
W. Frick, an enterprising Teuton, who appreciates the value of independence in 
conducting a paper. The Banner assumes to represent the rights and interests 
of the people in the contest between labor and capital, and holds itself out as 
an " organ for the Germans of Stephenson County " to publicly define their 
several positions with reference to matters which interest them individually, 
nationally, or in relation to affairs of state. It is a seven-column folio, printed 
in clear type, and rapidly gaining a circulation extending all over the county. 
Its office is at the corner of Stephenson and Chicago streets, over the Stephen- 
son County Bank, supplied with a job department, wherein printing in German 
and English can be contracted for, and has a circulation of 500 copies. The estab- 
lishment is valued at $1,000, and the paper is edited by its owner, Mr. Frick. 

Nord Westliche Post. — The seemingly apparent need of a German organ 
of independent proclivities, influenced F. Krumme to venture a trial of the 
experiment in 1875. A brief experience, however, convinced him of the 
fact that but little support could be obtained in Freeport, whence he removed 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 425 

to Lake City, and finally to La Crosse, where he was greeted with encourage- 
ment equally as cheerful as that which had attended his efforts in Illinois, and 
abandoned the undertaking finally at the latter city. 

The Freie Presse was established some time in the year 1868, by leading 
representatives of the Republican party, for the purpose of educating the Ger- 
mans into a complete understanding of the facts and figures of the then existing 
situation. The facile pen was wielded by Christian Mueller and William 
Casper Schultz for nearly a year, when the enterprise was abandoned and the 
pursuit of converts concluded. 

Freeport Tribun. — In the middle of March, 1859, William Massenberg 
began the publication of a German weekly called the Tribun, which sought to 
obtain a share of Republican patronage in Stephenson County. But, failing 
after a year's trial to command his expectations in that connection, the Tribun 
editor retired from the field of journalism. 

In addition to the above, there was a number of miscellaneous papers 
which long since went out in failure, leaving no record of their contents or 
causes of demise. 

WATER POWER. 

One the most valuable and inexhaustible adjuncts to the development of 
wealth in the city and county, and an auxiliary which, though not fully 
utilized, has become valuable as a source of revenue, not only to the owners of 
the riparian rights, but to those leasing the privilege, is the water-power. The 
earlysettlers about Pecatonica River appreciated the value of the power that could 
be diverted therefrom more sensibly than those who came at a later day, when 
steam had been applied to move the vast amounts of machinery, which in 
pioneer times, though limited, were dependent upon the turbine, or over shot 
wheel to propel them, than a succeeding generation, and adapted the same to 
their uses almost before the prairie soil was broken. 

Late in 1845, or early in 1846, 0. H. Wright and E. S. Hanchett applied 
to the Legislature for an act of incorporation, chartering the Hydraulic and 
Manufacturing Company of Stephenson County. The capital stock was to 
consist of 200 shares, equally divided between Wright and Hanchett, and the 
prayer of petitioners to organize also sought legal authority to erect a dam on 
Pecatonica River at such point in Stephenson County as might, by petitioners, 
be thereafter selected. 

Petitioners' prayers were granted, and, after some delay, the race was begun 
in 1847, under the supervision of John Lerch, a man named Jacob Zimmerman 
doing the work, however, and completing his job during the same vear. The 
race then, as to-day, commenced at a point opposite the foot of Adams street, 
and runs eastwardly a distance of 900 feet, where the waters re-enter the river. 
The race is thus 900 feet long, about fifty feet wide and six feet deep, furnish- 
ing an inexhaustible supply of power, though at present being appropriated by 
but four patrons. ■ 

In 1848, Hanchett transferred one-fourth his interest in the venture to 
John Lerch, reserving 500 cubic inches of water for his own use, and one-quar- 
ter remaining to Charles Powell. 

Prior to the completion of the race, Hanchett had erected a saw-mill on the 
present site of the Goddard flour mills. This was used as soon as water-power 
could be availed of to saw lumber for local use and transportation into adjoin- 
ing counties, and so continued until the flour-mills were substituted in its stead, 
Mr. Hanchett being the operator until 1848, when he assigned the mill 



426 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

property, with his reserved title in the water-power, to D. A. Knowlton, who in 
turn sold the property thus acquired to Benjamin Goddard. In 1851, Mr. God- 
dard purchased the interest of Charles Powell, and now owns the franchise in 
conjunction with Webster & Rhodes in the proportion of five-eighths to three- 
eighths held by the latter. 

The power is at present applied to the operating of Goddard's mill, Web- 
ster & Rhodes' mill, Emmert's manufactory and Stiles & Ca.'s machine shop, 
and is valued at $50,000. 

GAS AVORKS. 

Previous to 1855, the city was without gas facilities, and their absence, it is 
said, provoked no inconsiderable amount of complaint, which, to express it 
mildly, was emphatic, if not tinctured with a profane vernacular peculiar 
to disappointments and inconveniences. Freeport had, at that date, enjoyed 
municipal dignities for a period of five years, and the fact that the city was still 
dependent upon the primitive means of illumination employed when it was a 
village was the subject of critical comment. 

During the latter part of 1854, the feasibility of establishing gas works in 
the city was generally discussed, and almost with the dawn of the new year these 
discussions took shape, culminating in obtaining a charter from the Legislature 
for the incorporation of a company, bearing date February 15, 1855. Further 
steps were taken in the premises, and on October 16 of the same year the organ- 
ization was perfected by the election of T. J. Turner, President, E. H. Hyde, 
Treasurer, and Homer N. Hibbard, Secretary, with a capital stock of about 
$50,000. 

During the same year, grounds for the buildings and other appurtenances 
were procured at the corner of Jackson and Liberty streets, and contracts for 
their erection concluded. These were completed early in 1856, and still stand 
on the very spot of their origin. The premises are 120 feet square, and contain 
the gasometer, forty feet in diameter, also the furnace house, supplied with nine 
retorts with a total capacity of 35,000 feet per diem, and cost, when delivered 
to the incorporators, an aggregate of $56,000. 

The expenses incident to building were in part liquidated by the issue of 
bonds, to the amount of $20,000, on the 5th of February, 1856, maturing on Jan- 
uary 1, 1861. Failure to pay the same at the date of maturity involved the 
corporation in litigation, which was concluded by the sale of the works, the 
bond-holders becoming the purchasers for a consideration of $13,000. After 
operating them for some years, the vendees finally disposed of their several 
interests in the venture to Thompson Dean, a capitalist of Cincinnati, who, in 
turn, sold to S. S. Ashcraft and Thomas Butterworth, about September 1, 
1863. These gentlemen continued in charge until May 14, 1867, when the 
works were purchased by L. K. Scofield and C. S. Hill, of Freeport, paying 
therefor $23,626. On the 26th of July, 1871, Mr. Hill sold his interest to L. 
L. Munn, who operated the works, in conjunction with Mr. Scofield, until Feb- 
ruary 26, 1879. At that date, the latter gentleman transferred his title to L. Z. 
Farwell, who to-day owns the enterprise jointly with Mr. Munn. 

The works are in constant operation, requiring the services of four hands, 
consuming 500 tons of coal annually, and are valued at $50,000. The manu- 
facturers own six miles of mains, laid through the principal streets, can light forty 
street lamps, which are all as yet located, supply about 300 consumers, and 
charge from $3 to $3.50 per thousand feet. 

The works are complete in all details, and are represented as a profitable 
investment. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 427 



YOUNG MEN S LIBRARY ASSOCIATION. 



The origin of this association is said to be due to a religious revival held 
in the city of Freeport during the winter of 1874-75. At one of the revival 
meetings, complaint was made that there was no place in town open to young 
men in the evenings, and a discussion resulted as to the means that would 
enable its absence to be supplied. After some preliminary canvass of the sub- 
ject, it was decided to establish a library. A number of young men combined 
for that purpose, subscribed $10 each and rented and furnished a room for the 
purpose. When the scheme had gotten well under way, the Rev. Robert Coll- 
yer delivered his lecture on " Clear Grit " to further the undertaking. With 
the proceeds of Mr. C.'s contribution and $75 subscribed by citizens of Free- 
port, books were purchased, a room fitted up for their reception and the 
library formally opened on New Year's Day, 1875. During that year, the Hon. 
W. B. Fairfield (since deceased) and the Rev. E. E. Hall gave readings for the 
benefit of the venture, upon which $40 were realized, and Mr. Pells Manny 
donated $500. These sums are to day represented by the substantially bound 
copies of standard works, including Irving, Hawthorne, Thackeray, Scott, 
Dickens, George Eliot, DeQuincey, Goethe, Schiller and others, forming a 
library unto themselves. 

The first year's experience was not so filled with encouragement as to 
cause the management to clap its individual hands with joy. It was not as 
generously patronized as its merits deserved ; many of the young men who had 
given their efforts to the support of the enterprise removed from Freeport ; the 
current expenses were in excess of the income ; subscriptions were falling off, 
and a variety of causes combined against the library with such effect as to 
nearly accomplish its permanent retirement from active service. At this junc- 
ture, a number of gentlemen came to the relief of the managers, and, increasing 
the associate membership, postponed its demise, and, by their continued efforts 
in that behalf, prevented the occurrence of this calamity in the future. 

During 1879, the library was permitted a local habitation in the office of 
Oscar Taylor, rent free, and a high degree of success attended the efforts made 
to secure subscribers. In 1880, a move was made to the third floor of Mc- 
Namara's building, on Stephenson street, adjoining the opera house, where 
apartments were furnished particularly adapted to a library and reading room. 
The occupation of these premises is still maintained, and the " Freeport Library," 
which began in the most limited and unpretentious manner possible to be im- 
agined, has grown in prominence, resources and influence. 

The present officers, are : S. D. Atkins, President ; J. B. Taylor, Treas- 
urer; Charles D. Knowlton, Secretary, and W. L. Taylor, Librarian. 

The catalogue contains a total of 850 volumes, exclusive' of the magazines, 
exchanges and periodicals, to which access can be obtained for a nominal con- 
sideration, and the value of the property held by the association cannot be far 
from $2,000. 

BANKS. 

The First National Bank — Was duly organized February 24, 1864, with a 
capital stock of ,$50,000, and the following officers : George F. De Forest, 
President, and E. Mayer, Cashier ; W. P. Malburn, L. L. Munn, O. B. 
Bidwell, C. J. Fry, E. Mayer, George F. De Forest and L. F. Burrell, Board 
of Directors. 

On the 10th of March, 1865, the capital was increased to $100,000, which 
it is to-day, with a surplus of $25,000. 



428 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

The bank is located in Munn's building, where it is engaged in the dispo- 
sition of a large business, annually, with the following officers : 0. B. Bidwell, 
President, and George F. De Forest, Cashier; 0. B. Bidwell, W. 0. Wright, 
G. F. De Forest, John Burrell, 0. B. Sanford, H. D. Cook and L. Z. Farwell, 
Board of Directors. 

Second National Bank — Was organized in May, 1864, under the National 
Banking Laws, with a paid-up capital of $50,000, which was increased to 
$100,000 on January 1, 1866, and has to-day a capital and surplus of $155,- 
000. The charter officers were : John H. Addams, President ; A. H. Stone, 
Cashier; H. C. Burchard, J. Clingman, R. H. Getteray, J. W. Shaffer, A. H. 
Stone, W. P. Naramore, John H. Addams, W. P. Hunt and T. Wilcoxon, 
Board of Directors. 

Under these favorable nuspices the bank opened for business immediately 
upon its organization, in the Plymouth Block, corner of Stephenson and Van 
Buren streets, where it remained until the block was razed to give place to the 
opera house building, into which it was returned with the completion of that 
edifice, where it has since remained, in* the enjoyment of a constantly increasing 
business, and generous confidence, illustrated by the fact, that the deposits, 
which at first were but slightly in excess of $100,000. have since increased to 
$250,000. The present officers are : John H. Addams, President ; Jacob 
Krohn, Acting Cashier ; A. H. Wise, Jacob Krohn, M. Lawver, John Kenegy, 
A. Reifsnider, D. Neidigh and Thompson Wilcoxon, Directors. 

Stephenson County Bank — A private corporation, upward of a quarter of a 
century old, located at the corner of Stephenson and Chicago streets, was estab- 
lished by James Mitchell in 1852, who, in conjunction with Holden Putnam, 
R. Richardson, of Boston, and A. Page, of Rutland, Vt., and conducted a 
prosperous business for many years, under the firm name of James Mitchell & 
Co. When the call for volunteers was published, Holden Putnam entered the 
service, and was killed at the battle of Lookout Mountain. This event caused a 
dissolution of the firm, Mr. Mitchell remaining sole owner until January 1, 
1874, when J. W. Neff became a partner, and still remains in that capacity. 
Mr. Mitchell died in August, 1874, and the business was carried on by his 
heirs until September, 1876, at which date W. H. Mitchell, son of the deceased, 
took charge of the family interest in the bank and became a partner with Mr. 
Neff, which co-partnership still remains in existence, though business is done 
under the firm name of James Mitchell & Co. 

Hettinger. Collmann Brothers £ Co. — Private bankers, located on Chi- 
cago, between Stephenson and Galena streets, is one of the most substantial build- 
iug establishments in the State, Messrs. M. Hettinger, C. D. Collmann, A. 
Collmann, D. B. Schulte and F. Gund composing the firm, being men of respon- 
sibility and wealth. 

The bank was organized May 20, 1876, with a nominal capital of $20,- 
000, same to be increased as business required. During the years in which the 
institution has been operated, a very pronounced success has attended the labors 
of the firm, and the surplus profits have been added to the capital, which is 
now largely in excess of that originally invested. 

The annual deposits are stated at $150,000, and the business, which is 
largely done with farmers and shippers, is equally as extensive. 

Knowlton Brothers. — Also private bankers, located at the corner of Ex- 
change and Stephenson streets, was established in the fall of 1869, by the late 
D. A. Knowlton, one of the early settlers and wealthy men of Stephenson 
County, who associated his sons, D. A. Knowlton, Jr., and C. D. Knowlton, with 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 429 

him, and conducted the business successfully to the day of his death, in the 
month of March, 1876. Thereafter, and up to the present time, decedent's 
sons and heirs have been carrying on the enterprise, under the firm name of 
Knowlton Brothers, employing a large capital and doing a correspondingly large 
business. 

GERMAN INSURANCE COMPANY. 

At a day in the history of Freeport, at present within the memory of those 
not included among the names of the proverbial oldest inhabitants, the city was 
known as the "Hartford of the West," from the presence of insurance compa- 
nies born in the immediate vicinity, and apparently leading a prosperous exist- 
ence. They were thick as lice in Egypt, to express it graphically, but many 
have met the fate allotted that pestiferous insect, which in ancient times infested 
men and beasts, when Pharaoh's heart was hardened. They have run the race 
set before them, and their corporate life has long since been rolled up like a 
scroll. This was due in some instances to bad management, in some instances 
to the preponderance in amount of liabilities over assets, in some instances also 
to the adoption by the Legislature of what is known as the law of 1869, the 
exacting provisions of which had a tendency to eliminate unsubstantial corpora- 
tions, from among those rated as solvent, and to confine the business to a class 
of operators whose means were available at all times, and liable for the corpo- 
rate obligation accepted in consideration of premiums paid for the benefit of 
the assured. 

These companies began to be chartered as early as 1853, when the Stephen- 
son County corporation was chartered. In 1857, theFarraers' was incorporated, 
with D. H. Sunderland, A. P. Long, John Burrell and J. S. Emmert at its 
head. This company is still in existence, but quiescent, as it were. The Put- 
nam County Mutual, subsequently American, was removed to Chicago, in 1869, 
where it still lives. The Columbia, of Freeport, chartered February 20, 1861, 
survived its birth two years, and then departed from the scenes of active life. 
The Fire and Tornado, changed to the Continental, re-insured its risks in 
Chicago, and closed up. The State, chartered June 10, 1863; Citizens' Life, 
Citizens' Health, National, Relief, and Western World were all chartered in 
February, 1865, but declined business. The United States, chartered at the 
same time, succumbed, when the law of 1869 went into force ; the Union 
two years previously, and the Mokena declined the privileges accorded it by 
the terms of its charter. 

Probably the most celebrated among these were the Winnesheik and the 
Protection Life. The former was chartered February 18, 1861, and included 
among its stockholders B. F. Butler, Simon Cameron, J. Russell Jones, Per- 
kins Bass, U. S. Grant, W. H. Bradley, N. Corwith, J. B. Brush and John A. 
Logan. From the date of its incorporation, it made rapid progress, and during 
its existence issued not less than 50,000 policies. At first, its business was 
mainly transacted on what is known as the mutual plan ; this lasted until Janu- 
ary 1, 1867, when it was changed to the stock plan, and so continued until the 
law of 1869 stepped in and claimed the company as its own, which claim was con- 
ceded without resistance or demurrer. The Protection Life operated in Free- 
port until March 7, 1867, when its base of supplies and distribution was removed 
to Chicago. After two years of apparently fruitful labors, the Protection Life, a3 
will be remembered by most every resident of Stephenson County, was 
described as hanging upon the verge of ruin. This cheerful picture was at first 
disputed by friends of the corporation, but claimants insisted such was the case, 



430 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

and clamorously demanded an investigation. These demands were finally or- 
dered, and the examination made resulted in the discovery of facts which were 
not thought to have existed before. The institution was reported as not only 
on the verge of ruin, but so hopelessly in that condition as that its recovery was 
a question of chance rather than possibility. The law was appealed to to 
unravel the skein of circumstances, and ascertain what had become of the pre- 
miums presumably to the credit of the assured, but thus far without results. A 
Receiver was appointed, and other things done that seemed proper and right, 
but thus far nothing has been born of the proceedings but trials, troubles and 
vexations of spirit. 

The German was incorporated February 16, 1865, under the name and 
title of the " Freeport Insurance Company," by A. H. Stone, E. W. Coleman, 
W. J. McKim, A. M. Lawver and George P. Kingsley. On June 23, 1866, 
Louis Ahsendorff, Richard Meyer, William Massenberg and D. Keuhner pur- 
chased the charter and franchise of the Freeport company from A. P. Long, 
and the following board of officers was elected : L. Ahsendorff, President ; 
William Massenberg, Vice President ; R. Meyer, Secretary, and D. Keuhner, 
Treasurer. 

On the 13th of July of the same year, Mathias Hettinger was elected Presi- 
dent in place of Mr. Ahsendorff, who resigned, and in the month of October follow- 
ing the first policy of insurance was issued. During the year ending October 
31, 1867, 411 policies were issued. In the month of December of that year, 
Richard Meyer resigned the secretaryship, and F. Gund was elected in his 
stead, since when he has served continuously in that capacity. 

The company does business in the following States : Illinois, Iowa, Wis- 
consin, Minnesota, Missouri, Arkansas, Texas, Kansas, Nebraska, Colorado, 
and Dakota Territory, has over six hundred agencies, and its premium re- 
ceipts at present run over $1,000 per day. During the twelve years of its 
existence the company has issued 94,309 policies, upon which premiums aggre- 
gating $1,332,521.63 have been received ; and paid losses amounting to $429,- 
975.31. The capital stock is $200,000, divided into shares of $100 each, and, 
with a continuance of its present success, it will not be long before it will take 
rank among the wealthiest corporations in the country. To-day the interest re- 
ceipts alone suffice to pay the regular annual dividends in addition to a large 
proportion of the expense incurred in its management. 

The success of the company is due to the prudent and conservative man- 
ner in which the business has been conducted. The interests of the policy- 
holder have been carefully guarded, and, in addition to being the heaviest tax- 
payer in Stephenson County, the German has contributed largely to the pros- 
perity of Freeport. 

The assets of the company exceed $600,000, and the present officers are : 
M. Hettinger, President ; J. Hoebel, Vice President ; C. O. Collmann, Treas- 
urer, and F. Gund, Secretary. ET. JBaier, C. Baumgarten, M. Bangasser, C. 
O. Collmann, A. Collmann, J. Erfert. J. Forcha, D. Franz, M. Hettinger, 
E. Heller, J. Hoebel, B. Huenkmeyer, D. Kunz, D. B. Schulte and A. Voel- 
kers, Board of Directors. The company's office is at the corner of Exchange 
and Bridge streets. 

FREEPORT TELEPHONE EXCHANGE 

was organized on the 1st day of April, 1880, by E. T. Keim, of Dubugue, acting 
on behalf of the National Telephone Company, with a capital of $10,000, and the 
following officers : L. Z. Farwell, President; W. G. Barnes, Vice President ; 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 431 

F. Gund, Treasurer ; C. H. Little, Secretary. 0. B. Sanford, J. I. Neff, L. 
Z. Farwell, E. B. Winger, F. Gund and C. H. Little, Board of Directors. 

On the 10th of June following, work was commenced, poles erected, lines 
placed, etc., which were completed and ready for operation about the 1st of 
July. The instruments used are of the Bell pattern with the Blake transmit- 
ter, and with the magnets, bells and material, was furnished by the Electrical 
Manufacturing Company of Chicago. 

The company began operations with about twenty-five miles of lines, and 
fifty subscribers, and the promise of an increased list when the undertaking is 
finally established. The instruments are " placed " in stores, manufactories, 
etc., and kept in order for $4 per month, and in private residences for a less 
sum, say $36 per annum. The main office is at No. 107 Stephenson street, 
where an operator, line-man and a force necessary to conduct the business is 
employed. 

POST OFFICE. 

The early settlers of Stephenson County were denied the privileges and 
mail facilities to which their descendants are accustomed, and which are now 
regard as indispensable to their happiness. 

The first mail delivered in the county was during the spring of 1836, when 
Thomas Craine was made the recipient of letters and papers addressed to those 
residing in Freeport and vicinity, from the Frink stages, which he carried to 
the addressed, making his way on foot, and collecting the tariff for services 
thus rendered. This was continued until a post office was established in Free- 
port, and an official appointed to discharge the duties incident thereto. 

Along in 1837, the demand for increased postal conveniences, induced the 
Department to rent a small room on Galena street to supply this want, and B. 
R. Wilmot was appointed to take charge. His duties were far from exacting 
or onerous, as may be imagined, but the location of the premises afforded a 
"central point" for the inhabitants to congregate at, and to promulgate such 
news as was then available for distribution. Mr. Wilmot was maintained in 
his position until about 1842, when L. W. Guiteau became the object of execu- 
tive confidence, and removed the office to the corner of Galena and Exchange 
(now Galena avenue) streets, where the mail was daily received. He was fol- 
lowed by the Hon. Thomas J. Turner, who established the post office in his 
private residence, on Galena, between Van Buren and Chicago streets, where 
he attended to his charge until December, 1843, when John Tyler appointed A. 
T. Green to succeed Mr. Turner. His base of operations was first at the 
corner of Van Buren and Galena streets, whence he removed to the corner of 
Chicago and Stephenson streets, remaining in charge until 1849. During 
the month of May of that year. President Fillmore nominated George Reitzell 
to succeed Mr. Green. The latter transferred the office immediately upon the 
confirmation of his successor, and retired to the lines of unofficial life. The 
office was again removed, this time to the corner of Van Buren and Stephen- 
son streets, where it was retained during the incumbency of Mr. Reitzell. 

In 1853, F. W. S. Brawley was made Postmaster by Franklin Pierce, 
and established the headquarters of the office at the corner of Exchange (now 
Galena avenue) and Bridge streets. Charles S. Bagg succeeded Mr. Brawley 
in 1858, and remained in office until 1861, when he was relieved by the 
appointment of C. K. Judson. During Mr. Bagg's term of office the postal 
department was located at the corner of Bridge and Chicago streets. Under 
the administration of Mr. Judson, as also a portion of that of Gen. S. D. 



432 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

Atkins, who was appointed in 1865, the office was located on Chicago, between 
Stephenson and Galena streets, where it remained until its removal to the pres- 
ent site, corner of Van Buren and Bridge streets. 

This last removal was accomplished after a contest by the owners of rival 
locations, who submitted proposals to the Department for its occupation by the 
offer of premises owned by themselves. Capt. J. E. Stuart, Superintendent 
of Mails at Chicago, was sent here to decide upon a location, and examined the 
inducements offered by Mrs. Helena Beck, who proposed to lease premises at 
the corner of Chicago and Galena streets for $600 per annum ; by Horace 
Tarbox, for a lease of a portion of the Tarbox building, for $800 ; and those 
offered by Thompson Wilcoxon, for rooms back of the opera house, at an annual 
rental of $1,200 ; but, being unable to decide in the premises, the matter was 
referred to the Postmaster General, who, after some negotiation, decided to 
accept a subsequent offer made by Thompson Wilcoxon. That gentleman 
thereupon proceeded to erect the brick building at the corner of Galena and 
Bridge streets, which was completed in 1879, and taken possession of by the 
office in which it is now maintained and will remain during the continuance of 
the lease, which was made for a period of four years from the date of posses- 
sion, without consideration. 

During 1879, from a partial statement made in that connection, the busi- 
ness of the Freeport office was as follows : 

Received for stamps, envelopes, postal cards, etc., $11,388 93 

Received for box rent 1,510 30 

Registered letters sent $ 839 00 

Registered letters delivered 2,878 00 

Domestic orders (money) issued $3,559 00 

Foreign orders (money) issued 83 00 

Amount paid for domestic orders $77,950 64 

Amount paid for German orders 402 80 

Amount paid for British orders 63 20 

Amount paid for Canadian orders 160 07 

Total $78,576 71 

The expenses of the office are quoted at $1,400 per annum. 

The present officers are : Smith D. Atkins, Postmaster ; T. S. Gemmill, 
Assistant ; A. S. Wurts, Money Order Clerk ; O. P. McCool, Mail Clerk, and 
Otto L. Schulte, Delivery Clerk. 

FREEPORT CEMETERY. 

To the west of Freeport and yet upon its confines, at the further end of 
Lincoln avenue, lies the city cemetery. The drive to its location is through 
pleasant shaded avenues, and the cemetery itself, with its improvements and 
ornaments, touches the landscape, presenting an appearance of beauty and 
symmetry exquisite beyond comparison. 

The first cemetery established was that located along in 1838-39, at the 
foot of what subsequently was laid out as Summit street, between the foot of 
Adams street and the Cedarville bridge. This remained as a resting-place for 
the dead until the fall of 1852, when, the two acres comprehended in the terri- 
tory allotted to burial purposes becoming too small in consequence of the 
unprecedented mortality caused by the cholera that year, another location 
was determined upon. The selection then made embraced a piece of 10 acres, 
purchased of Temperance Foley, for $700, still used, and fronting on Lincoln 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 433 

avenue. After a time, this, too, required enlargement, and on April 13, 1878, 
fifteen additional acres were purchased in the same plat of land for a considera- 
tion of $2,250, which has since been surveyed and laid out into eighty blocks 
•of fourteen lots each, which command ready sale at from $10 to $25 apiece. 

The grounds are gently rolling, constituting a fine natural site, without 
inequalities of surface, the lawns planted with forest and ornamental trees, 
flowers, etc., calculated to gratify the eye, kindle the imagination and fill the 
heart of all with pleasant thoughts. 

The grounds are in the care of a sexton, who is employed by the City 
Council, which administers the trust, makes title to lots conveyed, and is 
responsible for keeping the grounds in order and repair. 

PARKS. 

The city contains two parks of measured dimensions and limited attrac- 
tions. One is located on Williams street, fronting 200 feet on that thorough- 
fare, extending thence 300 feet to Mary street. This property was donated by 
O. H. Wright and Judge rurinton, but beyond fencing the same, erecting a 
music stand and the distribution of benches, the city has done little to establish 
its title. The other park consists of about one acre of ground on Locust, 
between Pleasant and Broadway streets, donated by D. A. Knowlton. Both 
parks might be made delightful resorts, and, no doubt, will in time be meas- 
urably improved by the city authorities. 

WILCOXON OPERA HOUSE. 

When Plymouth Block, at the corner of Van Buren and Stephenson 
streets, was first erected, early in the fifties, the citizens of Freeport felicitated 
themselves and their city on the possession of this at that time remarkable 
result of the architects' and mechanics' combinations. Plymouth Block served 
the purposes for which it was erected, having in the mean time come into the 
possession of Thompson Wilcoxon, until the winter of 1868, when it was torn 
down, its site yielding place to the handsome edifice known to-day as the Wil- 
coxon Opera House. In the spring of 1869, the foundations were laid and the 
building completed entire during the following fall. The premises are built of 
brick and stone, having a frontage of sixty-six feet on Stephenson street by 
seventy-seven feet on Van Buren street, and are in all respects complete and 
desirable. They were built from plans furnished by Kinney & Adler, archi- 
tects of Chicago, and nothing was left undone that would contribute either to 
the elegance or substantiality of the work. The basement is occupied as the 
composing and editorial rooms of the Herald, the first floor by the First 
National Bank and commodious stores, the second floor by offices, while the 
third and fourth stories are devoted to the occupation of the Opera House audi- 
torium. This is 60x50, supplied with a stage, furnished with appropriate machin- 
ery, equipments, etc., and is the "base of operations " for the musical and dra- 
matic artists visiting Freeport. The interior of the auditorium is handsomely 
frescoed and otherwise adorned, and, with the gallery, will comfortably seat an 
audience of 800. In appearance, the building is one of the most attractive on 
the main street, occupying an elevated site and attracting many expressions of 
admiration from citizens and strangers. The property is valued at $50,000. 

munn's building. 

One of the prominent and handsomely finished buildings of Freeport 
stands at the corner of Stephenson and Van Buren streets, on the site of the 



434 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY, 

old Pennsylvania House, a hotel identified with the earlier history of the city, 
now located two squares west on Stephenson street. Munn's building was 
commenced in 1862, and completed during the fall of that year, after plans 
furnished by the same architect who designed the Opera House and First 
Presbyterian Church. It is built of brick, with a marble front on Stephenson 
street, three stories high, 41Jx90, and was finished ready for use at an outlay 
of $25,000. The first floor is rented by the First National Bank, the second 
story being devoted to offices, and the third floor entire is occupied by the Odd 
Fellows. 

While the building was in progress of construction, the Masonic Order, 
which at that time occupied inconvenient quarters elsewhere, secured a lease of 
the third floor for society purposes, and the same was completed by Mr. Munn 
for their special accommodation. The Masons accordingly took possession, 
which they held for a term of ten years, but, when the order of the Scottish' 
Rite was instituted, the hall was found to be too contracted, and removed to 
Fry's Opera House, where it has since remained. 

Mr. Munn's building and lot are worth a total of $30,000. 

fry's building. 

One of the most prominent and imposing improvements in the city is 
located at the corner of Stephenson and Chicago streets, where it was erected, 
in 1865, by C. J. Fry, at a cost of $44,000. 

During the spring of 1864, Mr. Fry determined, to erect the building, for 
which ground was broken on the 5th of July of that year, and the foundations 
laid during that month. When these were completed, the superstructure went 
up, the same being built according to plans furnished by O. B. Wheelock, a 
Chicago architect, and the entire fall occupied in its erection. It was under 
roof by winter, and opened to public uses in January, 1865. The main build- 
ing is 63|x90, three stories high, with an addition two stories in height, 30x40, 
both constructed of brick, and a decided ornament to the city. The first floor 
is used for stores, the second for offices, and the third story is appropriated to 
Masonic occupation. 

Originally, the upper story was devoted to hall purposes, and was one of 
the finest in this portion of the State. But, in January, 1871, the Masons 
secured a lease of the premises, and where once audiences were edified with 
Shakespearean revivals, the festive goat and attendant concomitants of Masonic 
mystery are maintained. 

BREWSTER HOUSE. 

This hotel, located on the corner of Stephenson and Mechanic streets, was 
erected in the years 1856-57. The enterprise was first decided upon in March 
of the former year, during which the foundations were laid and the under- 
taking practically commenced by J. K. Brewster, an old resident of 
Stephenson County. On the 4th of December following, the building was 
inclosed, and when completed, was rented for a term of years to Sinclair 
& Baker. On Tuesday, August 27, the hotel was formally opened, and 
twenty-nine names entered upon the register of arrivals. The opening festival 
occurred on September 2, when the house was crowded with guests ; the 
Great Western Band furnished the music; the Hon. M. P. Sweet, the Rev. 
Dr. Sunderland and others, delivered addresses, and a general rejoicing was 
indulged. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 435 

In time, Mr. Lyon succeeded to Mr. Sinclair's interest, and the firm 
changed to Lyon & Baker, so continuing one year, when Clark & Ferris 
took possession and remained in charge two years. In 1861, J. W. Humphrey 
took charge, and was followed by Corbin Brothers in 1864, and then S. Speer in 
1865. In less than a year the latter disposed of his interest, and the house 
remained vacant until the spring of 1866. At that date a Mr. Howard, from 
Portland, Me., assumed the management, changed the name to the " Howard 
House," and remained for several years. J. F. Belcher acted in the capacity 
of Boniface until about 1870, when the house was closed for one year. At the 
expiration of that period, J. S. Gates and C. C. Burton assumed charge, their 
partnership continuing a year, when J. S. Gates became sole owner, and still 
continues. 

The building is four stories high, sixty feet front on Stephenson by 155 
on Mechanic street, constructed of brick with iron window-caps and sills, and 
balcony in front. The main entrance is on Stephenson street, opening into 
the office. On the second floor is located the parlors, dining-room and sample- 
rooms, while the third and fourth floors are devoted to the accommodation of 
guests, 250 of whom can be comfortably disposed of. 

The original cost of the building was $75,000, but since its completion 
the edifice has been altered and improved at a large expense.fand, while it is to- 
day in perfect order, the investment is quoted at about $40,000. 

TAYLOR'S DRIVING PARK, 

comprehending an area of eighty acres to the east of the city, and is owned by 
John B. Taylor. Along in 1873, Mr. Taylor, appreciating the needs of horse- 
men in the vicinity, and the valuable adjunct it would prove to Freeport, pur- 
chased the land, since occupied as a driving park, for that purpose. He at once 
began to improve the track, and expended large sums for that purpose, annually, 
from 1873 to 1877. These include fencings, accommodations for stock, club- 
houses, stands, etc., and what is pronounced, by those competent to judge, the 
fastest and most elastic track in the country. It was surveyed, constructed 
and laid out under the direction of L. Stanton, is 100 feet wide, and 5,280 feet 
to an inch, or a full mile in length, supplied with every convenience and 
security for fast time, and has, until recently, been patronized by the most 
prominent trackmen in America. 

The track proper, with stables for stock, was completed in 1874, and dur- 
ing that year a season of races was given under the auspices of the Freeport 
Driving Park Association, with premiums to be contested for aggregating 
$10,000. The occasion attracted an immense field of horses, including such 
v famous racers as Bodine, Pilot Temple, Amy B., Young Wilkes, Observer, 
Whalebone, Wolford Z., etc., as also a large attendance who witnessed the 
winner in " free-for-all " cross the score in 2 : 24| at that time remarkable speed. 
The success of the meeting was so gratifying that a series was decided upon 
for the following year, which were held in June, August and October, at which 
premiums amounting to $15,000 were distributed. The success of these were 
not so liberal as that of 1874, yet the association ventured one more series, the 
same taking place in May and August, 1876. The meeting held in August is 
known as the " Centennial meeting," and was attended with circumstances so 
remarkable, that they are frequently quoted by horsemen to-day. At that 
gathering there were 147 horses entered, the largest number entered for races 
in the annals of the turf. On the second day of the meeting, in the race for 
horses with no record below 2 : 33, there were twenty-two entries, of which 



436 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

twelve started, and eight horses made a record. It required ten heats to decide 
the contest, which was finally awarded to Monarch Rule, with Sophie Temple 
second, Billy O'Neil third, and Ed Wilder fourth. The time made was 2:31, 
2 : 29£, 2 : 32, 2 : 29, 2 : 36, 2 : 34, 2 : 3B and 2 : 33J, with one dead heat. 

In 1877-78, the State Fair was held on these grounds, and in 1878 the 
last race meeting was held, the patronage not being sufficiently generous, it is- 
claimed, to justify the expense incurred at the meetings. The property is val- 
ued at $75,000, and owned solely by Mr. Taylor. 

RELIGIOUS. 

The First Presbyterian Church of Freeport is claimed as not only the first 
church fully organized and officered for labor in the city, but also in Stephen- 
son County. The Methodist brethren, it was admitted, had formed a class, but 
nothing like a distinct church was established until 1842, when the First Pres- 
byterian was formed and started out on its mission of love. A meeting was 
held on the 24th of November of that year, at which the Rev. Calvin Water- 
bury presided as Moderator, Samuel Spencer officiating as Clerk, and a resolu- 
tion adopted setting forth the confession of faith in the form and government of 
the Presbyterian Church of the United States of those present, which included 
Philip Reitzell, Mrs. Mary Reitzell, Orestes H. Wright, Mrs. Emmaretta Hen- 
derson, Mr. and Mrs. A. W. Lucas, Mrs. Elizabeth Lucas, Mrs. Sarah Young, 
Ashael W. Rice, Mrs. Nancy Rice, Orrin B. Munn, Mrs. Jane L. Wright, 
Samuel Spencer and Mrs. Elizabeth Spencer. The Rev. Calvin Waterbury was 
installed as minister, at an annual salary of $400, and with a congregation of 
fourteen members, rich in faith and confessions. During his ministry, worship 
was held in the court house, but the growing wants of the church demanded a 
regular place of meeting, and two lots were secured at the southeast corner of 
Walnut and Stephenson streets — one donated by Kirkpatrick & Baker, and the 
other purchased for $40. A subscription for a church edifice of brick and stone, 
40x65, to cost $460, was undertaken and secured. The stone fcr the foundation 
and basement was quarried across the river and drawn to the spot by an ox team 
driven by L. L. Munn, the wood timbers were procured in the neighborhood, and 
work commenced ; but, notwithstanding the labor and self-denial exercised, work 
was suspended long before the edifice was completed, leaving a debt of $200 
unprovided for. The minister resigned, and fifteen members of the congregation 
retired. This was the darkest hour of the church's history, which, however, 
survived the impending calamities, and grew strong amid the adversities with 
which it seemed to be surrounded. The Rev. J. C. Downer was called to take 
charge, the church was completed during the year 1851, and accessions were 
annually made to the number of members. 

The old church was thereafter occupied continuously, and a gratifying suc- 
cess attended the labors of the congregation. In 1866, it was decided to erect 
a new church on the opposite corner of Walnut and Stephenson streets, and on 
September 7 of that year the corner-stone was laid with appropriate ceremonies. 
This edifice, which is of stone, contains, beside the main audience-room, a beau- 
tiful Sunday-school room, parlor, kitchen and library rooms, is an ornament to 
the city and a credit to the sect. It was completed and dedicated October 31, 
1867, Prof. F. W. Fiske, of Chicago, preaching the sermon, the Rev. J. W. 
Cunningham offering the dedicatory prayer. In the evening of the same day, 
the Rev. Isaac E. Carey was installed as Pastor, the sermon being preached by 
the Rev. C. A.Williams, of Rockford, the charge to the Pastor being given by 
the Rev. A. Kent, of Galena, and that to the people by the Rev. C. Marsh, of 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 437 

Mount Carroll. The church cost complete $50,000, and on the day when dedi- 
cated $17,000 was raised by subscription to cover the debt incurred in its 
building. 

The church has enjoyed several seasons of revival. The first, a powerful 
work of God in the winter of 1850-51, added greatly to its numerical and 
spiritual strength, bringing into its fold some who have been among its most 
efficient and valuable members, and some who have gone forth from it to shine 
as lights of the world. The second occurred in the spring of 1857, and was 
confined mainly to the Sunday school, resulting in the conversion of ten or 
twelve of the older pupils, all of whom have continued " steadfast and immov- 
able," and one of whom has since been prepared for the ministry. The third 
occurred at the beginning of 1864, at which thirty were added to the church ; 
the fourth in 1867, and others at stated periods since. There have been con- 
nected with the church from the beginning between 500 and 1,000 persons, 
many of whom have been received on examination. 

The first Sunday school in connection with the church was organized in 
1844, with John Rice as Superintendent and teacher, and consisted of eleven 
pupils. It is now large and prosperous. 

The following ministers have officiated since the church was organized : 
The Revs. C. Waterbury, J. C. Downer, Isaac E. Carey, B. Van Zandt, and 
H. D. Jenkins, the present incumbent. 

The church property is valued at $50,000. 

Second Presbyterian. — About the year 1847, a petition to the Presbytery 
of Rock River, Old School, was prepared in Stephenson County, praying for 
the organization of a Second Presbyterian Church and signed by fifty-three 
persons. A public meeting, largely attended, was held in the old court house, 
and a commissioner appointed to carry the petition to the Presbytery, which 
met in September of that year, at Princeton. 

This Presbytery at that time embraced the whole of Northern Illinois, 
and had a membership of 304. They received the commissioner and appointed 
the Revs. Ithamer Pillsbury, Samuel Cleland, and Elder C. A. Spring as a 
committee to visit Freeport and organize the church. They reached Freeport 
October 30, 1847, where they found fifteen members who had withdrawn from 
the First Church and twelve others who held certificates from Eastern churches, 
ready to enter into a new organization. These were formally constituted 
as the Second Presbyterian Church of Freeport, by the election, ordina- 
tion and installation of three Elders, viz., A. H. Kerr, Samuel Dickey and 
James W. Barber, and the following members : Mrs. Samuel Dickey, Mrs. 
James W. Barber, James T . Smith and wife, Joseph F. McKibben and wife, 
John Van Dyke and wife, Robert Badger and wife, William Lamb and wife, 
Samuel Lamb and wife, Samuel Milliken and wife, Mrs. Jane McKibben, Mrs. 
Jane D. Lamb, Misses Phoebe and Martha Dickey, James Brown and wife, and 
William Johnson. 

From the date of the organization no services were had until the spring 
of 1848, and then only for a few Sabbaths, during which eight persons were 
received into the communion of the church. In July of the same year, the 
Rev. John Ustick accepted a call and preached as stated supply for twenty- 
two months. On January 5, 1850, the interests of the congregation impera- 
tively demanded the erection of a house of worship, and David Nesbit, John 
Barfoot, with James W. Barber, were appointed a building committee. Late 
in the fall of that year, the present church, corner of Exchange and Pleasant 
streets, was commenced, and during the following summer completed. The 



438 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

lecture-room was first used for worship the first Sabbath in September, 1851, 
the audience room not being formally occupied and dedicated until 1854. The 
entire cost of the building, which is of brick, neatly furnished and supplied 
with an organ, was about $6,000, which, with the exception of $900 received 
from abroad, was subscribed by the congregation. 

This church will have been organized thirty-three years on the 30th of 
October, 1880, during which time ten ministers have occupied the pulpit, and 
upward of seven hundred members have been included on the roster. It has 
enjoyed, during its existence, five revival seasons, and several churches have 
been organized in the surrounding country, being in a great measure the result 
and outgrowth of the labors, and largely supplied with members, from the 
Second Church. 

A Sabbath school was organized in 1850, and has always kept pace with 
the church in progress and growth, a right hand to her in the work of saving 
souls. 

The influence of the church upon the community at large has always been 
of a pronounced religious character, and of a high order. Both ministers and 
people have ever maintained a high standard of reverence for the purity and sanc- 
tity of the Sabbath, for worship, morals, temperance, law, justice and order. 
The blessings of God have descended on pulpit and pew, sustaining each others ( 
hands, encouraging each other's hearts, and pointing the way to the heavenly 
Jerusalem, where abide peace and joy. 

The following is the roster of ministers who have filled the pulpit since 
the church was established : The Revs. John Ustick, James Carroll, A. H. 
Lackey, P. B. Marr, D. M. Barber, Robert Proctor, W. J. Johnstone, B. 
Roberts, George Elliott, and John Giffen, at present in the service. 

Third Presbyterian Church — Is composed of Germans, and was organized 
in 1867, with a congregation of fifteen members, under the charge of the Rev. 
John Vanderlass. The old court house, which had served so many religious 
bodies before the several denominations had secured edifices of their own, pro- 
tected the German Presbyterians for one year, during which the number 
attending gradually increased. 

In 1868, the present church edifice, at the corner of Exchange and Pros- 
pect streets, was completed and taken possession of. It is of frame, 56x34, with 
a seating capacity of 250, and cost, with the parsonage adjoining, a total of 
$4,500. 

The Rev. Mr. Vanderlass remained in charge for a period of three years, 
when he was succeeded by the Rev. E. A. Elfeld, who remained until 
September, 1879, when he retired. From that date until July 1, 1880, the 
church was without a Pastor, but, on that date, the Rev. C. Buettle accepted 
charge, and still remains the incumbent. 

The congregation numbers sixty-two worshipers, and the church property 
is valued at $5,000. 

First Methodist Church. — The first Methodist minister who ever preached 
in Stephenson County was the Rev. James McKean, who came here as a trav- 
eling minister in 1834, when he was riding a circuit of 500 miles. Gathering 
the representatives of two families residing in the western part of the county, 
he held services and delivered an address, the only one delivered that year. 

In 1836, the Rev. Thomas W. Pope was sent to Stephenson County as a 
missionary, but held no services. The following year, Mr. McKean returned, 
and remained two years. During his stay classes were organized at Waddams 
Grove, Lena, Silver Creek and Freeport. He was a man possessed of much 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 441 

energy and perseverance, and the results of his labors are visible to-day. 
He was succeeded by the Rev. Samuel Pillsbury, who came in 1839, and, with 
the assistance of E. P. Wood and Rollin Brown, traveled an extended circuit. 
During 1841, the interests of the Methodist denomination were cared for by the 
Revs. Richard A. Blanchard and Alfred M. Early, who were sent hither for 
that purpose. Their work extended from Rockton to Apple River, and from 
Savannah to beyond the Wisconsin line. The next year, Mr. McKean returned 
once more, remaining until 1843, when the Rev. C. G. Worthington, assisted by 
W. B. Cooley,jwas assigned to the charge, and remained until the Revs. S. Whip- 
ple and Bishop succeeded. These latter continued two years, and from that time 
until 1850 the Revs. Robert Beatty, John Sharp and C. W. Batchelder pre- 
sided. 

The circuit traveled by these pioneer laborers in the vineyard varied some- 
what from year to year, but included the county of Stephenson, with portions 
of Carroll and Jo Daviess. 

The present generation can never realize the privations to which the min- 
isters of those days were subjected, traveling day and night to meet their 
engagements and enduring hardships no pen can describe. But these trials, 
with others, rather increased their zeal in the cause wherein they labored. 
There were no stately edifices with wealthy and fashionable congregations in 
the days hereof spoken ; the worshipers assembled in private houses, or in 
sparsely-furnished schoolrooms, and listened to the Gospel as it was there and 
then proclaimed. Though they worshiped under unfavorable auspices, their 
zeal and fervor were such as would put to shame the lethargy visible among 
Christians of to-day. 

In 1850, Freeport was organized into a separate charge, with a total 
membership of seven, under the pastorate of the Rev. John F. Devore. 
Nothing had been done up to this time toward building a house of worship. 
Services were held in the little red schoolhouse not far from the court house, 
at private houses and at rare intervals in the court house. Mr. Devore was an 
enthusiastic worker, and soon after his settlement in Freeport, inaugurated a 
series of revival meetings, which were attended with an abundant success, and 
impressed the necessity of building a church. Accordingly, the lot now occu- 
pied by the church was purchased and preparations at once made for the erec- 
tion of a permanent house of worship. • This was built by subscription, the 
members in Freeport contributing to their utmost, and farmers throughout the 
county, irrespective of denomination, donating both money and materials. Mr. 
Devore, so earnest was that gentleman in his desire for the completion of the 
work, assisted in hauling the materials, borrowing from a farmer an ox team 
and wagon for the purpose. In the summer of 1851, the church was inclosed 
and the basement completed, the absence of pews being supplied by the contri- 
butions of individuals. The cost of the structure thus far had been about 
$2,000, all being paid in labor and materials, save $500 in money. The dedi- 
catory sermon was preached by Presiding Elder Richard Haney, it is said, 
though others maintain that the Rev. D. W. Pinckney officiated. 

The labors of Mr. Devore were concluded in 1852, when the Rev. C. C. 
Best was assigned to succeed him. During his stay, worship was had in the 
basement of the church, the completion of the edifice being postponed until 
1853, when the Rev. H. Whipple became the incumbent. In that year, labors on 
the edifice were resumed, and its dedication celebrated in 1855, the Rev. Silas 
Boales preaching the sermon in place of Dr. Hinman, who had accepted an 
invitation for that purpose, but died before the day appointed for the services 



442 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

to be held. Mr. Whipple was followed by the Revs. C. M. Woodruff in 1855 ; 
Miles L. Reed in 1856 ; Thomas North in 1857 ; J. C. Stoughton, David 
Teed, W. F. Stewart and J. L. Olmstead, during whose several administrations 
the cause flourished and revival meetings and other efforts secured large addi- 
tions to the congregation. 

In 1863, Joseph Wardell was sent to Freeport as a missionary, where his 
labors were attended with marked success. These labors were suspended 
during 1864, but in 1865 Robert McCutcheon renewed the missionary 
work and organized the Embury Church, taking with him a membership of 
sixty from the First Methodist. A church was subsequently built by the new 
charge, costing $24,000, of which $13,700 were subscribed on the day of dedi- 
cation, upon which occasion the Rev. R. M. Hatfield preached. 

In 1864, the Rev. W. C. Willing began his three years labors in Freeport. 
During the first winter of his pastorate, the congregation was measurably 
increased through an extended revival, and it became necessary to enlarge the 
church. This was completed in 1865, at a cost of $13,000, and its re-dedi- 
cation celebrated during the fall of the same year ; while these repairs were 
in progress, the congregation worshiped in Plymouth Hall. 

In 1867, the Rev. F. P. Cleveland accepted charge, and during his admin- 
istration the present parsonage was purchased for $3,500. In 1870, $800 
were expended in repairing and re-frescoing the church, and the Rev. 
W. A. Smith occupied the pulpit, remaining until 1873, when the Rev. Mr. 
Cleveland returned, who continued in his labors three years, followed by the 
Revs. S. A. W. Jewett and C. E. Mandeville, the latter being at present in 
charge. 

At present the congregation numbers 250, and the property of the church 
is valued at $15,000. 

Embury Methodist Church — Named for the first Methodist minister in 
America, is located on Exchange street, south of Williams ; was organized in 
the fall of 1864, by members of the sect residing in the southern part of the 
city, who had previously acknowledged allegiance to the First Church. These 
consisted of the Rev. F. C. Winslow, the Rev. Mr. McCutcheon and wife, 
Hollis Jewell and wife, John Barnes and wife, Joseph Carey and wife, the Rev. 
Joseph Best and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Abraham German, William Sells, Mrs. 
Secrist, Mrs. J. H. Staver, Mrs. Naylor, Cornelius Furst and George Swentzell. 

Ten of the congregation subscribed $1,000 each for the purchase of a lot 
and building the church, and, on Thursday, June 30, 1866, the corner-stone 
of the present edifice was laid, at the northwest angle of the main tower, in 
the presence of a considerable attendance, and with the following exercises: 
An appropriate hymn was sung by the congregation, after which prayer was 
offered by the Rev. R. A. Blanchard, who also read the Ritual ; the Scripture 
lesson was read by the Rev. W. C. Willing, followed by the Rev. J. F. Yates, 
of Galena, in an address, when the usual mementoes were placed, including a 
copy of the Bible, Methodist Hymn-Book, Discipline of the M. E. Church, 
Minutes of the Rock River Conference, statement of the organization and his- 
tory of the church, list of builders of the edifice, Declaration of Independence, 
Constitution of the United States, and several States, copies of the local and 
State newspapers, specimens of national coin, etc., after which the stone was 
placed in position, and the audience dismissed with the benediction. 

The building, which was pushed to completion rapidly, is 64x100, built 
of brick, with stone facings, the interior handsomely decorated, surmounted 
with two towers, and presenting an appearance both attractive and substantial. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 443 

It was dedicated in September of the same year, the Revs. J. H. Yates 
and S. A. W. Jewett officiating, and cost $24,000, the balance of which 
amount unprovided for was subscribed on the day of its dedication. 

The church is free to all who see fit to avail themselves of the privilege of 
attending, the labors of its ministry and congregation being chiefly among the 
poor and needy, with whom it stands very high. 

The following is a list of the ministers who have filled the pulpit to the 
present date : The Revs. J. Reeves, Mr. McCutcheon, F. A. Read, F. A. 
Harden, Hooper Crews, Isaac Springer, G. S. Young and Sanford Washburn. 

The congregation numbers 175 communicants, and the church property 
represents a valuation of $20,000. 

First Free Methodist Church — Has been in existence in Freeport for 
many years, though quiescent from 1865 to 1877, when the congregation was 
re-organized, and consisted of the following members : Ferry Crowden and 
wife, Jacob Mease and wife, and David Moon. The Rev. J. Buss accepted 
the charge, and, aided by this limited assistance, revived the church. Services 
. were held at first in convenient halls and elsewhere, until the latter part of 
1877, when the church edifice on Exchange street, now in use, was completed, 
at a cost of $1,000, dedicated and taken possession of. 

In 1878 a revival was experienced in the circuit in which the congregation 
is included, conducted by the Revs. W. F. Manly and A. F. Ferris, through 
whose labors ninety-one were converted and additions made to the congrega- 
tion, which now numbers forty members. 

The church edifice is of frame, 28x40, capable of accommodating 250, 
and the organization is considered as prosperous, with the promise of a greater 
success in the future. 

German M. E. Church. — To the Rev. H. Vosholl is due the credit of 
establishing this church. During the early days of Freeport there resided in 
the future city and throughout the county a large number of Germans who had 
embraced the religion of John Wesley, and labored for the advancement of the 
cause, as defined by his statutes. The absence of a minister was found to be a 
serious inconvenience to the cause, and to supply this absence the Rev. Mr. Vosholl 
was appointed a missionary and assigned to Freeport, where he arrived on the 
3d of October, 1854. Soon after he reached the then village, he collected a 
congregation and worshiped in the basement of the First Methodist Church, 
while there raising funds and completing arrangements for the erection of the 
present church edifice, corner of Chicago and Spring streets. This was in time 
completed at a cost of $1,500, and taken possession of by the congregation, 
since when it has prospered though not strong in numbers, in consequence of 
the continual drafts made thereon by reason of removals, and to aid in the for- 
mation of other congregations, six distributed in the county, having sprung 
from the Freeport mission. 

The congregation now numbers about fifty worshipers; the church 
property is valued at $1,800, and the following Pastors have served since the 
church was established: The Revs. H. Vosholl, H. Richter, R. Tillmann, C. 
Holl, Charles Scheuler, Jr., George Haas, E. R. Irmsher, B. Becker, E. J. 
Funk, F. Schmidt, A. Brenner and G. E. Hiller. 

The Baptist Church. — The First Baptist Church of Freeport, 111., was 
organized in December, 1845, in the kitchen, or the one living room of the 
family of Rev. James Schofield, who was acting under the commission of the 
American Baptist Home Missionary Society. Twenty-six persons united in 
this organization. Their names are as follows: Rev. James Schofield and his 



444 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

wife Caroline, his son, John M. Schofield, and his daughter Caroline (now Mrs- 
H. H. Wise), Robert Schofield and his wife Mary; Mrs. Catharine Jones and 
her daughter, Elizabeth Jones; Thomas Stacks and wife, son and daughter; 
J. R. Stout and wife; John Stout and wife; Timothy Stout and wife; James 
Craft and wife ; William Perkins and wife ; Andrew Platner and wife ; Dexter 
A. Knowlton and Royal Durfee. 

Rev. James Schofield was chosen Pastor of the little church. The follow- 
ing year a lot was secured where the German Catholic Church now stands, and 
steps were taken to build a house of worship. Money being scarce at that 
time in the country, subscriptions were taken for labor, and the various mate- 
rials needed in its construction. The Pastor made great sacrifices, and labored 
with his hands in preparing the timber for the frame of the building and in its 
erection. After great exertions, he succeeded in raising money sufficient to buy 
boards and shingles in Chicago. These were marked by the Pastor, every 
board and plank and bunch of shingles bearing the inscription, " For the Bap- 
tist Church of Freeport." As the railroad only extended eighteen miles, it 
was necessary that they should be hauled on wagons by those who carried their 
grain to Chicago. As many would overload their teams, they found it neces- 
sary, when they came to bad roads, to partially unload. In this way the lumber 
was found all the way from Freeport to the railroad terminus. But, on account 
of the care of the good Elder in marking his lumber, and the honesty of the 
people along the route, at last every board and bunch of shingles reached its des- 
tination. The church having been completed, was dedicated December 25, 1850. 
The first Board of Trustees was elected March 4, 1848, and consisted of 
James Schofield, Alfred Dan, Joshua Springer, Job Arnold and John Mon- 
telius. 

Elder Schofield labored faithfully as Pastor till the close of the year 1851, 
when he resigned on account of ill health, and was succeeded by Rev. T. L. 
Breckenbridge. The church had increased under its first Pastor, so that it 
numbered about one hundred members at the close of his ministry with them. 
While their house was being built the church met for a time for services in the 
court house, taking their turn with the Presbyterian and Methodist Churches. 
Afterward they met for worship in the brick schoolhouse in Knowlton's Addi- 
tion. Some sixty persons united with the church under the pastorate of Mr. 
Breckenbridge, who continued one year. Rev. Thomas Reese was his successor, 
who served the church two years. Between one and two years the church had 
no Pastor and no regular services, no prayer-meeting, nor Sunday school. 

October 1, 1855, Rev. 0. D. Taylor assumed the pastorate and gathered 
the scattered members. By the addition of Baptists who had moved into the 
town, the church felt able again to sustain public worship. After a useful pas- 
torate of two years, he closed his labors with the church. Rev. A. G. Thomas 
was chosen Pastor, and entered upon his work in February, 1858. He had 
graduated the July previous, from the Rochester Theological Seminary, and 
was ordained in April following. After a short pastorate of fifteen months he 
resigned, and was succeeded by Rev. N. F. Ravlin, whose pastorate continued 
between two and three years ; he resigned July 8, 1861. In the following 
November, Rev. William Crowell, D. D., was called to the pastorate, and continued 
in that relation until July 1, 1865. In 1862, the old church building was sold 
and a lot purchased of Robert McConnell, on Stephenson street, on which a 
chapel was built and dedicated, in February, 1863. Rev. A. W. Lancey was 
chosen Pastor, October 1, 1866. Mr. Lancey was an attractive preacher, and 
succeeded in gathering a good congregation ; about seventy persons united with 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 445 

the church the first year of his ministry. He was compelled to resign by his 
failing health, and was succeeded by Rev. C. W. Palmer, who served only one 
year. After the close of his pastorate, nearly two years elapsed before another 
Pastor was settled, the church being served occasionally by supplies. The 
Sunday school and covenant meeting were sustained during this interregnum. 
Rev. S. 15. Gilbert accepted the unanimous call of the church given him Octo- 
ber 1, 1871, and served the church until May 1, 1874, leaving the church in 
an efficient condition, but with a membership of only about 100. During the 
summer of that year, the chapel was enlarged, painted and frescoed, at an 
expense of $1,200, and was opened again for worship, September 1, at which 
time Rev. W. H. Dorward commenced his pastoral work. The church was 
greatly prospered for one year, receiving about fifty members by baptism and 
letter, with bright anticipations for the future. But these bright prospects were 
darkened by the partial destruction of their chapel by fire, Sunday morning, 
December 26, 1875. Almost paralyzed by this calamity, by seeing their beau- 
tiful house in flames, they soon recovered from their despondency, and at a 
meeting held that same evening, at the house of J. M. Bailey, it was resolved 
to build a suitable church edifice. A committee was appointed to secure plans 
and to solicit subscriptions. The work of erection began in the following June. 
The house was so far completed that in the following November the basement 
was ready for occupancy. While the church was engaged in building, the con- 
gregation worshiped in the lecture room of the First Presbyterian Church, 
which was generously offered for that purpose. Mr. Dorward closed his pastor- 
ate July 1, 1878. He was succeeded, November 15, of the same year, by Rev. 
D. H. Cooley, D. D. Soon after his settlement, the work of completing the 
main audience room was begun under the efficient leadership of Robert Scho- 
field, one of the constituent members of the church, and brother of its first 
Pastor. Mr. Schofield had removed his membership many years before, and 
was largely instrumental in organizing and sustaining the Harlem and Florence 
Baptist Church, which at one time numbered seventy members. That church 
having disbanded and many of its members having united with the church at 
Freeport, after his removal to this city the importance of finishing the 
house of worship and removing its indebtedness, led him to offer a large personal 
subscription and his services in raising the amount required. The church and 
friends, inspired by his example and spirit, were willing to make great sacrifices 
to accomplish these desirable objects. The church edifice was dedicated June 
29, 1879. Sermons were preached by Rev. G. Anderson, D. D., President of 
the University of Chicago, and Rev. G. W. Northrup, D. D., President of the 
Union Theological Seminary at Morgan Park. Pastors of neighboring churches 
were present, and assisted in the services. The church property is valued at 
$18,000, and free from debt. The present membership is about 200. An 
efficient Sunday school is maintained, with over 260 on the roll-call and an 
average attendance of 150. Rev. D. H. Cooley, D. D., is Pastor, and the 
church is prospering under his ministry. Trustees, Thomas French, J. M. 
Bailey, A. H. Wise, E. B. Winger and A. W. Ford. Robert C. Schofield, 
Treasurer. J. H. Stearns, Assistant Treasurer. 

Zion Episcopal Church — Located at the corner of Cherry and Stephenson 
streets, was erected in 1852, and consecrated on the 16th of February, 1853, 
by Bishop Whitehouse, assisted by the Revs. Messrs. McKeown, of Elgin, Ben- 
edict, of Galena, and Bentley, the Pastor. 

From general rumor, it is believed that the church edifice was blown down 
and totally destroyed in a perfect tornado, which occurred on the 18th of July, 



446 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

1861, entailing serious loss, and necessitating the procuration of an audience- 
room for worship until the damage inflicted could be repaired. 

The church was rebuilt in time, and has since been occupied as a sanctu- 
ary, where the Episcopal congregation of Freeport and vicinity worship weekly. 

The present congregation numbers seventy-three communicants, under the 
pastorate of the Rev. R. F. Sweet, B. D. The value of church property, as also 
other data in connection with the association, could not be obtained. 

The early records of this congregation being missing, and the Pastor being 
-unable to furnish any information regarding its growth and labors, the same 
are not submitted. 

St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church. — The Rev. John Cavanagh was Pas- 
tor of the Catholic Church at New Dublin in 1848. In that year his brother- 
in-law, Thomas Eagan, and his brother, Edward Cavanagh, with their families, 
settled in Freeport. Other Catholics soon gathered around them ; and Father 
Cavanagh visited them occasionally. 

Mr. Eagan purchased for $125 the lot upon which the Hon. E. L. Cron- 
krite's store now stands, and built on it a two-story brick dwelling. In that 
house mass was celebrated for the first time in Freeport. Mrs. Eagan felt very 
happy in being able to accommodate her worthy Rev. brother when making 
zealous efforts to promote the spiritual welfare of the few Catholics then in 
Freeport. A room on the second floor of her house was set apart as a chapel, 
wherein he gathered around him, at reasonable intervals, for more than two 
years, the growing elements of the congregation soon afterward known as St. 
Mary's. After the rising congregation had become too numerous to assemble 
with comfort, or even with safety, in the chapel so cheerfully and so generously 
kept open for their benefit, the use of a public hall was procured to serve as a 
church. The name of J. K. Brewster is favorably and gratefully mentioned 
in this connection ; for, although not a Catholic, yet, as the proprietor of a 
hall, he proved himself liberal and benevolent to the little Catholic community 
of those days. 

Father Cavanagh was a man of great natural talents, which he had well 
developed in acquiring deep and thorough learning pertaining to his profession. 
The many calls which he had to answer, from the various parts of his extensive 
mission, did not prevent him from paying due attention to the promising little 
congregation at Freeport. In his zeal for its advancement he lost no oppor- 
tunity afforded him for promoting its welfare. While using the Brewster hall 
as a church, he purchased as a site for a future church the lot upon which St. 
Mary's now stands, and proceeded, without unnecessary delay, to erect on it a 
frame building to serve as a temporary church. Among the Catholics who 
then zealously and liberally seconded his persevering efforts in the good cause, 
were, besides his brother and brother-in-law, William and Thomas Barron, 
Robert Bellew, Lawrence Frain, John Tophy and brother, and Thomas and 
John O'Connell. 

Among the non-Catholics then in Freeport, Robert and Thomas McGee 
distinguished themselves by donating the sills for the new church. Others con- 
tributed shingles, nails, glass, putty, etc. Thus they not only aided materially 
in the erection of the building, but set forth an example of liberality and gener- 
osity which has been since frequently and extensively imitated by large num- 
bers of the worthy heirs and successors of those very benevolent men. 

Father Cavanagh, in 1852, with the approbation of his Bishop, changed 
his residence from New Dublin to Freeport. At that time, St. Mary's congre- 
gation had become considerable. Several families of German Catholics had 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 447 

arrived and become attached to it. Freeport mission then included Savannah, 
Warren, what is now called Durand, a large portion, if not the whole, of Ogle 
County, and all the intervening country. His time was very much occupied in 
traveling throughout the mission, filling his regular appointments and satisfying 
the numerous sick calls made on him from its various parts. The labors of his 
successors in our days seem very light when compared with those which he was 
obliged to perform. Some may undertake to describe what he had to endure, 
but only those who have experienced the like can realize its wear and tear on 
the human system. He continued in the discharge of his laborious duties at 
Freeport until the summer of 1854, when, at the command of his legitimate 
superiors, he took charge of St. George's Church at Joliet, 111. Four years 
later, he was found at his post in the city of New Orleans, where he died a mar- 
tyr to charity in the discharge of his ministerial duties among the yellow-fever 
patients of that unfortunate city. Soon after his death, Mrs. Eagan, who still 
enjoys vigorous health in Freeport, received from a pastor and from the Arch- 
bishop of that city kind and sympathetic letters, in which Father Cavanagh's 
great zeal and devotion to duty in the midst of the plague, and his edifying death, 
were vividly described. 

When Father Cavanagh was called to Joliet, the Bishop considered it 
proper to give Freeport a pastor who could speak the German language. 
Accordingly, Rev. Ferdinand Kalvelage, now pastor of the Church of St. Fran- 
cis of Assisium, Chicago, was appointed pastor of St. Mary's. During his 
administration, the present brick church was erected. The new edifice was a 
decided improvement on the original frame, but its low roof and dark wooden 
gables greatly detracted from what its external appearance ought to be. The 
stonework supporting the brick and the floor was built too high for a mere foun- 
dation, but left at least four feet too low to admit of a serviceable basement. The 
pastor aud the German portion of the congregation had indisputable control in 
planning and erecting the building, but the Irish portion willingly contributed 
at least their proportionate share of the whole cost. A school was kept in con- 
nection with the church, but it was intended chiefly for the German portion of 
the congregation. The two nationalities seldom go on smoothly together in 
church affairs for any considerable time. In Freeport they proved no excep- 
tion to the general rule. But whatever misunderstandings occurred from time 
to time had not the effect of dividing the congregation under Father Kalvelage, 
for he understood and guided one nationality, and the other, seldom aggressive 
in church affairs, duly respected him as the pastor of St. Mary's. In the sum- 
mer of 1859, he was called away to another field of labor, and was succeeded at 
Freeport by Rev. Thomas O'Gara. 

The new pastor took early and effective steps to have the old frame church 
converted into a pastoral residence. He enlarged it, raised it a second story, 
and soon occupied it as a dwelling. It stood by the north side of the church, 
fronting on Union street. He continued to occupy it during his stay in Free- 
port. He earnestly exerted himself in collecting funds to secure to the congre- 
gation the piece of land since known as St. Mary's Cemetery. He was always 
zealous, prompt and diligent in the discharge of his ministerial duties. 
Although he could not speak German, yet those of his congregation who under- 
stood only that language were not neglected. He had to assist him from time 
to time German priests, either appointed by the Bishop or specially invited by 
himself. Among those may be named the Rev. B. Herderer, Rev. John Mehl- 
man, Rev. John G. Uhlana, Rev. Peter Fischer and Rev. John Westkamp. 
The German portion of the congregation were dissatisfied. Some of them gave 



448 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

him considerable trouble. They desired to have things their own way. They 
sometimes made complaints to the Bishop. They would not be satisfied without 
a German pastor. They wished to be separated from the Irish portion of the 
congregation. After due consideration, the proper authorities permitted and 
even recommended the desired separation. 

After due deliberation, it was agreed that the Irish portion should own the 
church, subject to all its indebtedness, but that they should deliver the church 
organ to the Germans, and pay them a certain specified amount in cash. In 
virtue of that contract, Father O'Gara was relieved of the care of the Germans, 
who were soon afterward placed in charge of a Pastor of their own nationality. 

Father O'Gara had to fill the void made by the removal of the church 
organ. It is stated he procured the fine pipe organ which has since rendered 
very satisfactory service in St. Mary's. He was very successful in collect- 
ing means to pay the entire indebtedness of the church, as well as to defray the 
expenses necessary for keeping it in a respectable condition. He was witty and 
very amiable. He was kind and considerate with his people, who still remem- 
ber him with sentiments of very high esteem. No priest had a larger number 
of friends among the clergy than he. To know him was to esteem him. He 
was transferred to Bloomington, 111., in April, 1866, where he soon erected a 
magnificent church, which a cyclone demolished almost as soon as the roof was 
completed. 

Rev. Thomas Kennedy was the next Pastor of St. Mary's. He never 
liked the position. His wish to leave Freeport was gratified by his removal in 
November of the same year, when Rev. George Rigby succeeded him. Like 
his predecessor, Father Rigby remained only a few months. He left the fol- 
lowing spring. 

Rev. Michael J. Hanly became the Pastor of St. Mary's in 1867. He 
was a man of great energy and perseverance. He condemned the old frame 
residence. It was sold and taken off the premises. The lot in rear of the 
church, but fronting on Madison street, was purchased for the site of a new 
pastoral residence, and upon it was speedily erected a good two-story building 
to serve the end in view. Substantial fences were built, trees were planted, and 
other important improvements made on the property. The zealous Pastor 
was ambitious of having everything done in a respectable and creditable man- 
ner. He deviated from his settled practice in that respect, only when his own 
comfort was in question, and thus proved that his disinterestedness was stronger 
than his very laudable ambition. When planning and building the pastoral 
residence, he deliberately excluded a kitchen and other necessary apartments, 
that the rest might be properly accomplished and his people not too heavily 
taxed. Such Pastors are sometimes unaccountably misunderstood ; their zeal 
is often regarded as selfishness. Their only consolation comes from above. It 
has happened, on the other hand, that Pastors with little zeal for the true wel- 
fare of their flocks, but with very large quotas of self-love, obtained, for a time, 
the confidence, the plaudits and most generous gifts of the people, and thus 
received their rewards. Father Hanly accomplished much in a short time. 
What he omitted when building the pastoral residence has not been supplied by 
any of his successors. 

Rev. P. L. Henderiekx became pastor of St. Mary's in September, 1869, 
in February, 1870, he was succeeded by Rev. F. J. Murtaugh. 

The new Pastor was very zealous and active in the discharge of his duties. 
He was very desirous of having a parish school attached to St. Mary's, and he 
was willing to make any reasonable sacrifice in order to establish and sustain 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 449 

one. A fine two-story brick school house, capable of accommodating two hun- 
dred pupils, stood on a lot almost in front of the pastoral residence, and it was 
advertised for sale. Father Murtaugh set his heart on purchasing it for St. 
Mary's. The lot on which it stood was small, but he knew that lots adjoining 
it were for sale. His zealous efforts proved successful. The property was pur- 
chased and secured for St. Mary's. He had the exterior of the church painted. 
He continued to prove his devotedness to duty, in various ways, until June. 
1871, when Rev. Maurice Stack succeeded him. 

Father Stack soon realized the state of things at St. Mary's. After hav- 
ing duly attended to several other particulars, he set himself to work in behalf 
of the school. The building needed repairs and furniture. With great zeal 
and devotion he submitted the case to the consideration of his people, and 
appealed to them for means to enable him to make proper use of the school 
building. Their response proved satisfactory. The school was repaired and 
duly furnished. He applied to the Dominican Sisters at Sinsinawa Mound, 
Wis., for teachers to conduct the school. Their very high reputation for learn- 
ing and for success in conducting parish schools, was then well known in 
several cities of the neighboring States, to say nothing of Chicago and some 
other cities within the diocese. His application proved successful. The 
sisters arrived in August, 1873, and in a few days afterward opened St. 
Mary's School. But the zealous pastor had made a sacrifice. He had vacated 
his own furnished residence to accommodate the sisters, nor did he again 
occupy it until he had built and duly furnished for the sisters, in behalf of the 
school, a better house than the pastoral residence. In the mean time he lodged 
in one house and took his meals in another. He purchased two lots adjoining 
the school property ; the convent now stands upon one of them ; the other is 
included in the school yard. In view of the fewness of his people and of the 
limited means at their command, his success was remarkable. But, in justice 
and in gratitude to the non-Catholics of Freeport and vicinity, it must be stated 
that they very generously patronized the fairs and festivals held for the benefit 
of the church. The late Charles McCoy was known to be exceedingly gener- 
ous in his donations to the church, as well as animated with a true and disin- 
terested zeal for its best interests. He was a man of considerable influence ; 
and his very edifying example was a constant though unobtrusive exhortation 
to others to be faithful in the discharge of their duties as Catholics. Father 
Stack regarded him as a benefactor to be distinguished among a thousand, and 
he deplored his death accordingly. The sentiments of the Pastor in that con- 
nection were to a great extent those of the whole congregation. Even non- 
Catholics largely participated in them. In March, 1877, Father Stack was trans- 
ferred to St. Mary's Church, Aurora, 111. He was succeeded at Freeport by 
Rev. Thomas F. Mangan, the present Pastor. 

The demands on Father Stack, in connection with the new building, pre- 
vented him from duly attending to the others. The new Pastor soon realized 
the fact that they required immediate and very costly repairs, not only to keep 
them fit for use, but even to save some of them from imminent danger of ruin. 
The very foundations, no less than the roofs and intermediate parts, had to be 
attended to. The church roof had to be shingled anew. Before doing so the 
roof itself, which was one of quarter-pitch, was changed into almost a new one 
of half-pitch. The dark wooden gables were removed, and well-lighted brick 
ones in keeping with the church and new roof were erected in their stead. It 
took large sums of money to repair damaged parts and to remedy defects, 
where, at first sight, a small amount would seem amply sufficient. The 



450 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

condition of the grounds also required the expenditure of considerable sums. A 
piece of land containing about two acres has been purchased and added to the 
cemetery, which is now in a very respectable condition. 

Under the present Pastor, more money has been expended for necessary 
repairs and improvements than would be required to erect a new building 
equal, if not superior, to the pastoral residence or the convent, and considerable 
sums are still needed for meeting pressing demands in the same direction. The 
condition of the property, however, as well as its appearance, is better now 
than it was at any previous time, and there is good reason for hoping that both 
will continue to advance. 

The good sisters in charge of the school have been zealous and indefatiga- 
ble in the discharge of their trying and arduous duties. Sister Augustine, the 
Superioress, is entitled to grateful acknowledgments from the Pastor and from 
the people of St. Mary's, for the very efficient and satisfactory manner in 
which she has conducted the school. Sister Helena has merited equal praise 
by her able and thorough co-operation in that very meritorious work. Their 
abilities, which are of a very high order, together with their tact in employing 
them, reflect much credit on their order and produce wonderful effects in the 
minds of the pupils in regular attendance at their school. To have their 
admirable services permanent and duly appreciated at St. Mary's could not 
fail to produce there very happy results. The pupils enrolled during the 
current school year number fifty-eight boys and sixty-eight girls. The aver- 
age daily attendance is forty-eight boys and sixty girls. 

The following table shows the average annual number of baptisms per- 
formed by every Pastor of St. Mary's whose term of service exceeded one year 
since the days of Rev. John Cavanagh : 



Rev. Ferdinand Kalvelage 158 

Rev. Thomas O'Gara 106 

Rev. Michael J. Hanly 75 



Rev. F. G. Murtaugh 35 

Rev. Maurice Stack 31 

Rev. Thomas F. Mangan 29 



The present congregation comprehends 100 families, and the church 
property is valued at $40,000. 

St. Joseph's Catholic Church. — Previous to 1862, the Catholics of Free- 
port worshiped at St. Mary's Church. The congregation was composed of 
all nationalities, including a large proportion of Germans on the roster of mem- 
bership. As the diocese increased with each succeeding year, the duties of 
pastor and people became more numerous, and doubtless imposed those hard- 
ships a faithful attention to duty involves. This condition of affairs suggested 
the creation of another parish in the city, and the building of a new house of 
worship for the accommodation of members. This suggestion finally found 
expression among the members of St. Mary's Church, and led to the organi- 
zation of St. Joseph's Church. When these preliminaries had been con- 
cluded, about one hundred and twenty-five families, composed of the German 
communicants of St. Mary's Church, purchased the church of the Baptist 
denomination on the site of St. Joseph's Church, for $2,000, and worshiped 
therein for ten years. In 1872, the congregation had increased largely, and it 
was decided to erect a new church edifice. During the winter, subscriptions 
were obtained for the building, and in the spring the corner-stone was laid with 
impressive ceremonies, the Rt. Rev. Thomas Foley, Bishop of Illinois, officia- 
ting. Work thereon progressed rapidly, and by fall it was so far completed as 
to be ready for occupation. Possession was taken early in the winter, and the 
dedication ceremonies took place on the fourth Sunday in Advent, 1872, Bishop 
Foley again presiding, and delivering the dedicatory sermon. The edifice is 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 451 

150x50, built of brick, in the Gothic style of architecture, and, though still 
incomplete, is one of the most ornate and complete houses of worship in Free- 
port. The auditorium is capable of comfortably accommodating a congrega- 
tion of not less than one thousand, lighted by five windows on each side, and 
seven in the sanctuary, ornamented with donative offerings from members, with 
fourteen station pictures and four pieces of statuary, the latter of Munich 
composition, illustrating sacred subjects, and possesses acoustic qualities of a 
superior order. The church cost, with furniture and equipments, about $30,000. 

The congregation numbers 240 families. 

Connected with the church is a parochial school, under the tutorship of 
the Sisters of St. Francis, of Joliet, employing two teachers, who afford instruc- 
tion in the ordinary branches of education to an average daily attendance of 
150 pupils. 

The following pastors have served since the congregation was organized : 
the Rev. Fathers John Westkamp, Ignatius Ballauf and Cleoaent Kalvelage, 
the latter at present in charge. 

The church property, including a cemetery consisting of four acres located 
one and one-half miles south of the city, represents a valuation of $45,000. 

Salem Church. — This society, belonging to the Church of the Evangeli- 
cal Association, was organized on April 27, 1869. The Rev. D. B. Byers, 
Presiding Elder of the Freeport District, presided at the meeting; the Rev. 
H. Messner, pastor, was present, and P. W. Rockey officiated as Secretary. 
Articles of incorporation were adopted, and a Board of Trustees, consisting of 
the Rev. D. VV. Grissinger, John Woodside, P. W. Rockey, John Barshinger 
and Simon Anstine, elected. Upon a complete organization, the following 
names were found upon the record : John and Mrs. Woodside, John and Mrs. 
Barshinger, John and Mrs. Miller, John and Mrs. Wolfinger, John and Mrs. 
Dickover, Simon and Mrs. Anstine, H. W. and Mrs. Pease, T. J. and Mrs. 
Fiss, Elias and Mrs. Bamberger, Benjamin and Mrs. Clark, W. H. and 
Mrs. Spelter, J. and Mrs. Fox, John and Mrs. Howard, Amos and Mrs. 
Heine, Rev. D. W. and Mrs. Grissinger, Samuel Clair, J. and Mrs. Baymil- 
ler, Miss Susan Baymiller, Aaron H. Barshinger, Mrs. H. Dengler, Miss E. 
Dengler, John and Mrs. Fritz, Miss C. Fritz, Elias and Mrs.. Koonz, Mrs. 
Carrie Klock, Mrs. Mary Kaufman, Mrs. Sarah Kyle, Peter and Mrs. Penni- 
coff, Mrs. E. Neuman, P. W. and Mrs. Rockey, Miss P. H. Reinhuber, Miss 
Rebecca Rohland, Samuel and Mrs. Shaffer, Mrs. Anna Stibgen, Aaron and 
Thomas H. Woodside, Miss Sarah Woodside, Misses Mary and Lizzie Wood- 
side, the Revs. D. B. Byers and Henry Messner, Mesdames Byers and Mess- 
ner, and Elias J. and Mrs. Duth. 

After the organization had been effected, the society secured the use 
of Commercial Hall, on Stephenson street, where a Sabbath school was opened, 
and the system of church work inaugurated. A committee was appointed to 
procure a suitable site for a church edifice, to secure funds for which a subscrip- 
tion paper was circulated. A lot was purchased of David Sunderland, on 
Pleasant, between Exchange and Scott streets, with a dwelling-house thereon, 
for the sum of $2,500, and a church commenced on the west side of the same. 
The plan adopted was a Gothic frame, 40x60, and two stories high, and the 
edifice was erected by members of the congregation, the pastor acting as fore- 
man, and so effectively was work prosecuted, that the lecture-room was finished 
and occupied in November of the same year. During the month the audience- 
room was completed, and in March it was dedicated to the service of God, at a 
total cost of $7,236.31. 



452 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

The society is free from debt, maintaining a Sabbath school, three weekly 
prayer meetings, has regular quarterly communion, and is in a fair condition 
of prosperity generally. 

The following pastors have officiated : the Revs. H. Messner, 1869 to 
1871; E.E. Condo, 1871 to 1872; D. B. Byers, 1873 to 1876 ; C. Smucker, 
1876 to 1879 ; W. H. Bucks, 1879 to 1880 ; and D. B. Byers, who has just 
entered upon his second term. 

Of the original members, the following have died : the Rev. D. W. Griss- 
inger, July 17, 1873 ; Mrs. Barbary, wife of Elias Bamberger, August 4, 
1875 ; and Mrs. Mary A., wife of John Miller, December 25, 1878. 

The Rev. E. E. Condo fell a victim to the fearful cyclone which passed 
over Marshfield, Mo., April 18, 1880, where he was serving as pastor, dying 
in two hours from the injuries received. 

The church property is valued at $10,000. 

Emanuel Church, of the Evangelical Association, is one of Freeport's 
substantial German churches. It was first organized as a mission in 1851. 
The following persons, and those only whose names can be fully identified, com- 
prising the principal membership : John Krimbill, Frederick Asche, Joseph 
Miess, John Marter, Jacob Heim, H. Thomas, George Thomas, G. Mainzer, A. 
Brenner, L. Metzger, M. Metzger, John Mayer, Christian Mainzer, B. Main- 
zer, Mr. Lemberger, Catharine Stoskopf, William Ellebrecht, J. Wolf, H. Fah- 
ringer and J. Frey. 

A stirring revival during this and the next succeeding year, greatly added 
to the number of members, and Mr. Miess having donated eighty acres 
of land, which was sold for $450, a church edifice of brick, 40x50, was soon 
in process of building, under the supervision of a building committee, com- 
posed of the following gentlemen : the Rev. H. Rohland, Joseph Miess, J. 
Krimbill, J. Marter and William Ellebrecht. At that time it was situated in 
the center of present Oak street, where it remained until 1868, when it was 
removed to the site of the edifice now occupied. 

The latter is located on Oak street, between Exchange and Broadway. It 
is of brick, ornamented with a steeple, and affording a seating capacity for 350 
worshipers. The edifice was completed in 1874, under the pastorship of the 
Rev. A. Fuessle ; F. Mayer, E. Vieregge, F. Heim and F. Asche, constituting 
the building committee ; Elias Bamberger being the architect. 

The ministry of the Evangelical Association is itinerant, and years ago 
the term of service was usually but one year at a place, which fact will explain 
the number of pastors who have officiated at Emanuel Church to date, as fol- 
lows : H. Rohland, C. Augenstein, J. G. Escher, L. H. Eiterman, J. Riegel, 
Christian Kopp, E. Musselman, D. B. Byers, D. Kraemer, J. Schneider, H. 
Messner, A. Stahley, W. J. Walker, M. Stamm, A. Fuessle, William Schrims 
and A. Huelster, two of whom have served a term of three years in succession 
and five a term of two years. 

A number of revivals of extraordinary power have been enjoyed since the 
organization of the church resulting in large accessions to the congregation, 
but the present membership is not as large as this fact would indicate. Besides 
the natural decrease by death, many well-to-do Christians are now living in vari- 
ous States of the Union, who were at some time members of Emanuel Society. 

In 1868, the quarterly conference of the society petitioned for the priv- 
ilege of preaching in English once in two weeks. This was denied, when a 
division occurred, those members preferring English preaching, being organized 
into Salem Mission. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 453 

Emanuel Church has accomplished a great amount of good among the 
Germans of Freeport, and is still endeavoring to fulfill its high mission. Though 
the outlook for future prosperity is not as bright as it might be, the church, 
nevertheless, is in good working order, and may reasonably count on a healthy 
development for many years to come- 

The German Evangelical Lutheran Emanuel Church was founded in 1877, 
by the Rev. T. J. Grosse, connected at that time with the Lutheran Seminary 
at Addison, in Du Page County, 111., but removing to Freeport on the 23d of 
February, 1877. During that year, the congregation increased to thirty-seven 
members, and prosperity attended the efforts inaugurated to build up and 
sustain the association. A lot was purchased at the corner of Union and 
Pleasant streets the same year, whereon a small but comfortable church was 
erected, and a parochial school established, over which Prof. F. Gase presides, 
and wherein fifty pupils are educated in German and English branches. 

In October, 1877, a call was extended the Rev. F. Behrens to take charge 
of the church, which he accepted, and is the present incumbent. 

The congregation numbers fifty-five worshipers, and the church property 
is valued at about $1,000. 

The First German Reformed Church, at the corner of Williams and 
Union streets, was first organized about the year 1862, by Henry Schulte, 
Henry H. Frank, Conrad Rodeke, Peter Belger, H. Billiker, Mr: Ode and 
others, who were the charter members, and worshiped in a hall above the drug 
store of F. Weise, at the corner of Galena and Exchange streets. The Rev. 
Mr. Seaman discharged the duties of Pastor for a brief period, when he retired, 
and the congregation became distributed among the various city churches. 
Some time after, the Rev. 0. Accola assumed pastoral relations to the divided 
church, re-organized the same, and secured means for the building of a modest 
frame edifice on the site of the present church. He labored effectively while 
he remained, but resigning his office, the church was again left without a head, 
and once more became demoralized, the members abandoning worship in the 
house which had been erected for that purpose. This continued until 1869, 
when the Rev. A. Schrader accepted the pastorate, and, by the efficient means 
employed for the space of five years, succeeded in placing the organization on a 
firm foundation, and in building up and prospering the cause in a most gratifying 
degree. He retired in 1874, to give place to the Rev. John Wernly, the pres- 
ent incumbent, under whose administration a new church has been erected. 
This was commenced in May, 1879, completed and dedicated September 27, 
following. It is 36x50, with a spire 100 feet high, and an organ, costing a total 
of $3,000. 

The congregation numbers 100 members, and the church property, which 
includes a parsonage erected in 1873, is valued at $5,000. 

Attached to the church is a parochial school, held in the old frame church, 
at which twenty-five pupils are taught the rudiments, as also the more advanced 
branches of German education. 

St. Johns German Evangelical Church. — In the year 1847, the follow- 
ing-named persons began the organization of the present church society : H. 
Kochsmeier, P. Tewes, A. Mengedohd, A. Boedeker, B. Boedeker, B. Hunke- 
meier, F. Hanke, W. Mundhenke, C. Riesenberger, C. Lesemann, C. Beine, 
C. Altenberg, F. Bodmann, H. Burkhard, and E. Beine, Elder. 

In 1848 E. Beine, local preacher, began the holding of regular meetings, 
which were continued for several years in a schoolhouse in the western part of 
the city. During the same year the church was duly organized according to 



454 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

the laws of the " Evangelical Verein of the West," and in 1850 a lot at the cor- 
ner of State (now Exchange) and Union streets was purchased, and a church 
edifice 33x40 commenced. This was completed in 1852, under the follow- 
ing Trustees : Adolph Boedeker, William Mundhenke, Henry Burkhard, and 
August Mengedhd. A year later the Rev. J. Zimmerman became pastor of 
the congregation, and in 1854 the congregation united with the German 
Synod of the West. ' 

In 1856 a parsonage and schoolhouse was erected on the church lot, and 
a teacher employed to instruct the youth of members in German and other 
branches. The year previous, Mr. Zimmerman was succeeded in the pastorate 
by the Rev. W. Kampmeier, who remained ten years. During his term of 
office the present church building, being of stone, 44x75, with a spire 100 feet 
high, and the auditorium capable of seating 600 worshipers, was completed at 
a cost of $5,000, contributed by members of the congregation. 

In 1866 the Rev. P. H. Hoefer accepted charge of the parish, discharging 
the duties incident thereto until 1870, when he was succeeded by the Rev. D. 
M. Fotch, who remained six years, when he gave way to the Rev. C. Hoff- 
meister, the present incumbent. 

The Trustees are A. Karsten, A. Bergman, P. Tewes, Christian Held, 
H. Witte, W. Brockhausen, and A. Tempel. 

The congregation numbers upward of one hundred families, and the church 
property is valued at $10,000. 

ODD FELLOWS. 

Second to no other organization of the present age stands the Odd Fel- 
lows. An institution manifesting influence, performing good, preventing evil, 
and increasing annually in membership and power, not only attracts public at- 
tention, but excites a laudable desire to know something of its origin, progress, 
aims and resources. 

The origin of the order is hidden in obscurity. History relates that the 
order was introduced into the Spanish dominions in the fifth century, into 
Portugal about the sixth century, and into France in the twelfth century, 
whence it was extended into England. In that country the order numbers 
over six hundred thousand members, and from this branch originated the 
American organization as it exists to-day, by the name of the Independent 
Order of Odd Fellows, under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of the United 
States. 

Fifty-one years ago there met in the upper room of the Seven Stars, an 
obscure hotel in the city of Baltimore, five men who had been brought together 
by a call in the public press, for the purpose of considering the organization of 
a lodge of Odd Fellows, the result of which was the institution of Washington 
Lodge No. 1. The chief promoter of this lodge was Thomas Wildey, who is 
the father of American Odd Fellowship. 

The progress of the order was gradual until 1835, when by judicious legis- 
lation of its Grand Lodge the craft at once became prominent, drawing within 
its circle the educated, enterprising and refined. Odd Fellowship, as has been 
truly said, has met with no reverses ; its lodges are scattered all over the vast 
countries of Europe, and every State in the Union has its Grand Lodge, to 
which are attached subordinate lodges, all of which are working an honorable 
career. 

The qualifications for admission are a belief in the Supreme Creator, sound 
health, good character, and an honorable trade. The teachings of the order 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 455 

are to visit the sick, relieve the distressed, bury the dead, care for the widow, 
and educate the orphan. This system of benefits and timely assistance in the 
hour of need is a feature which attracts the serious attention of every one. 
There are two branches of the order, the " Subordinate " and '' Encampment." 
At a session of the Grand Lodge of the United States held in 1851, an honor- 
ary degree, " Rebekah," was adopted. It is designed to unite the wives and 
widows more intimately in the workings of Odd Fellowship. 

The first lodge of Odd Fellows organized in Illinois was located at Alton, 
in which city the same was consecrated on the 11th of August, 1836, and des- 
ignated as " Western Star No. 1." Since this date the order has increased in 
membership and influence, and attained the rank of a first-class power in 
the world of morals and benevolence, possessing a vast influence throughout 
the entire country. 

Winnesheik Lodge, No. 30, I. 0. 0. F. — On the loth day of July, 1847, 
at a time when the present city was little more than a village, the Grand Lodge 
of Illinois granted a charter for the organization of a lodge in Freeport, the 
s.ame to be known as " Winnesheik Lodge, No. 30," with the following mem- 
bers : Thomas J. Goodhue, E. A. Aiggins, C. G. Strohecker, A. W. Shuler, 
William T. McCool, H. G. Moore, S. D. Carpenter, Charles Powell and S. 
B. Farwell. The lodge thus organized has always prospered, including upon 
its roster of membership some of the most prominent citizens of the county. 
The garret of an old brick building, in a portion of the city then known as 
" Knowlton Town," was its first place of meeting, and, though unpleasant and 
inconvenient, the members continued in their labor of love. In time, and as 
the order became prosperous, its place of meeting was improved and removed, 
until, finally, it took quarters in the Odd Fellows' Hall, where it has since 
remained. 

Of its charter-members not one remains in the city ; some have removed 
to other scenes, and some have been removed to the Grand Lodge beyond the 
river. During the war its force was somewhat weakened, some of the members 
joining the army for the maintenance of the law and supremacy of the consti- 
tuted authorities. Of these, but few returned. One of the members of this 
lodge served repeatedly as representative to the Grand Lodge of Illinois, and 
was finally chosen by the fraternity as Grand Master, but, before the expira- 
tion of his term of office, death stepped in and put a period to his service. In 
addition to this, other members of the lodge have served with honor in high 
stations. 

At the present date, Winnesheik Lodge is in a highly prosperous condi- 
tion, with one hundred members, property valued at $2,500, and the following 
officers: W. W. Krape, D. D. G. M.; C. Knoor, N. G. ; E. L. Kauffman, 
V. G. ; George Lewis, Secretary, and E. L. Cronkrite, Treasurer. W. W. 
Krape, representative to the Grand Lodge. 

Freeport Lodge, No. 239, I. 0. 0. F. — During the year 1857, a portion 
of the members of Winnesheik Lodge decided to withdraw from the parent 
Chapter and petitioned for a charter for the opening of a new lodge. The 
petition was granted, and Freeport Lodge, No. 239, was duly organized as a 
lodge, working in the German language, with the following members : D. B. 
Schulte, John Hoebel, Jacob Krohn, Henry Deuermeyer and William Stine. 

Starting with a limited membership, its progress has been successful be- 
yond the most sanguine anticipations ; its membership has increased from year 
to year, until to-day it ranks among the first lodges in this portion of the State, 
while its charities have been, and are, a source of pride to the fraternity and 



456 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

benefit to the recipients. The meetings first held were convened over the 
Stephenson County Bank, in comparatively uncomfortable quarters, which 
have since been exchanged for the commodious and handsomely furnished 
lodge-rooms now occupied by the fraternity in Munn's building, fitted up ex- 
pressly for the accommodation of Masons and Odd Fellows, and where meetings 
of the Freeport Lodge are held every Monday evening. 

The present officers are Rudolph Hefte, N. G. ; C. Schmidt, V. G. ; 
H. Kirchefer, Secretary, and J. Maurer, Treasurer. John Erfert, representa- 
tive to the Grand Lodge of the State. 

The membership is quoted at eighty-one brothers. 

Western Star Encampment of Patriarchs, No. 25. — The highest branch 
of the order, open to all worthy brothers who have attained the Scarlet Degree 
in subordinate lodges, was chartered on the 14th day of October, 1857, at Belvi- 
dere, Boone County, but subsequently removed to Freeport, with the subjoined 
charter members : Justus B. Jones, J. K. Murphy, A. E. Jenner, Albert L. Pear- 
sail, William Haywood, Timothy S. Clark and John Terwilliger. 

Its removal being accomplished, the encampment attained a high degree of 
prosperity, owing to the efforts of the members, as also the intrinsic worth of the 
organization. On its roll of membership is found some of Freeport's most wor- 
thy citizens, who have the principles and interest of the order at heart, and 
stand ready at all times to demonstrate the virtues suppositiously a prime factor 
in the composition of the fraternity. 

The present officers are George Lowis, C. P. ; W. W. Krape, H. P. ; S. 
D. Atkins, Scribe ; F. L. Jones, Treasurer ; E. L. Cronkrite, S. W., and C. 
Knorr, J. W. 

The membership numbers thirty-five, and meetings are held on the first and 
third Tuesdays of the month. 

Stephen A. Douglas Encampment, No. 100, I. 0. 0. F., was chartered 
October 12, 1869, Jacob Krohn, John Hoebel, William Wagner, Sr., Henry 
Rohker, Gabriel Lampert and Mathias Hettinger being the charter members, 
and is consequently the youngest organization of Odd Fellows in the city. Not- 
withstanding this, the lodge has prospered in a gratifying manner, having 
fifty-one members, and a healthy balance to its credit in the hands of the Treas- 
urer. 

The present officers are R. Hefti, C. P. ; C. Schmidt, H. P. ; H. Kir- 
chefer, Scribe, and Jacob Molter, Treasurer. 

Meetings are convened on the second and fourth Fridays of each month. 

MASONIC. 

A visitor to the halls of the Masonic fraternity in Freeport, while gazing 
upon the beautiful works of art peculiar to the craft which line its interior, 
would scarcely credit the fact that but a few years previous there was no city, 
nothing to break the silence of the illimitable wilds that extended in every direc- 
tion around the solitary cabin which, in the year 1835, stood where Freeport 
now stands. Lightly had Time, with sunny smiles, whispered adieu to these 
primitive days, before successors appeared ripe with improvement, a more per- 
fect civilization and all the attributes thereof, upon scenes that but a few years 
before were the homes of savages and savage sports. 

The history of Masonry in Freeport is as the history of individuals. Her 
most prominent citizens have been identified with the craft, and the craft has 
selected her prominent officers throughout the State from the inhabitants of the 




FREEPORT. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 4 59 

city. Among these were the Hon. Thomas J. Turner, Grand Master of Illi- 
nois ; N. F. Prentice, M. D., Past Grand Commander of the Grand Com- 
mandery of the State ; L. L. Munn, Grand High Priest of the Royal 
Arch Masons ; Jacob Krohn, District Deputy Grand Master ; M. D. Cham- 
berlin, Official Instructor of Illinois, and others, whose eloquent voices are 
hushed in death, but whose eloquent lives speak still, and are heard through- 
out all the land. They tell of the power of the human soul when armed 
in right, and speak of the force of principle when it becomes the weapon 
of determined manhood. To the examples thus furnished is due, in a great 
measure, the success which has attended the fraternity since it obtained a local 
prominence in the village of Freeport thirty years ago. Previous to that 
date, the members of the order were few in number and without sufficient 
enterprise to organize a lodge ; but in 1850 a lodge was established, and from 
that day to the present the fraternity has increased in numbers, influence and 
wealth. At first, meetings were convened in Fisher's building, at the corner 
of Galena and Exchange streets, where they remained for some time, and then 
removed to buildings over the Stephenson County Bank, thence to rooms over 
Cronkrite's store, adjoining the bank, thence to Munn's building, and finally to 
Fry's building, where they still remain, in the occupation of quarters the most 
complete, elegant and attractive in the State outside of Chicago. The craft has 
come up to the present from a former generation, bringing with it the experi- 
ence of years and the lessons taught in the schools of hardship and affliction ; 
but to-day perfect prosperity is its attendant concomitant, and the peace of mind 
which cometh from this knowledge is least prominent among the rewards 
reserved for its acceptance. 

Excelsior Lodge, No. 97, was the first lodge organized in Freeport. Its 
first meeting was held on February 22, 1850, by authority of a dispensation 
granted for that purpose by the Grand Master of the State at that time 
Erastus Torry, Julius Smith, Thomas J. Turner, Gershom Rice and 
Oscar Taylor, of Freeport, were in attendance, together with S. B. Farwell, 
John Jackson and S. H. Fitger, visiting brethren. The lodge continued to 
work under dispensation until Nov. 6, 1851, when a charter was granted by 
the Grand Lodge of the State, and at the first installation of officers, on Jan- 
uary 8, 1852, the following were selected: Julius Smith, W. M. ; T. J. Turner, 
S. W. ; Oscar Taylor, J. W.; J. A. W. Donahoo, Treasurer; A. W. Rawson, 
Secretary ; William Scott, S. D. ; Reuben Ruble, J. D ; James Wright, Stew- 
ard, and Giles Taylor, Tiler. 

Immediately upon the organization of the lodge, Masonry made rapid 
strides in the neighborhood, which necessarily produced its effect upon the 
organization and formation of the society in this community. To the success 
achieved by the Excelsior may be attributed, the organization of the two other 
lodges in the city, Evergreen and Moses R. Thompson, both of which are strong 
and prosperous at the present time. 

The present membership of Excelsior Lodge, is stated at 100, This lodge 
occupy rooms in the Masonic Hall, Fry's block, which were fitted up by the 
order when taking possession, at a cost of about $7,000; the several lodges, 
chapters, etc., contributing a pro rata therefor, and entitled to the use of the 
same. 

Moses R. Thompson Lodge, No. 381. — The first meeting of this lodge 
under dispensation was convened at Masonic Hall, December 31, 1862, with 
the following charter members and officers, appointed by the Grand Master of 
the State: Nathan Fay Prentice, Charles L. Currier, L. L. Munn. H. H. 



460 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

Taylor, G. W. Tandy, Robert Little, E. Moffatt, J. G. Knapp, W. D. V. 
Johnson, B. F. Burnside, S. Lumbard, Elijah Northy and W. B. Chatfield. 

N. F. Prentice, W. M. ; L. L. Munn,'S. W. and C. L. Currier, J. W. 

The lodge continued work under this dispensation until October, 1863, 
when a charter was granted, and the lodge constituted thereunder in due and 
ancient form, by Thomas J. Turner, under the name and style it still bears. 

The lodge is at present in a nourishing condition, with a roster of member- 
ship including seventy names, and meets for work semi-monthly, on the first and 
third Fridays. 

The present officers are : L. L. Munn, W. M. ; J. C. Burbank, S. W. ; H. 
W. Dexter, J. W. ; C. E. Scott, Treasurer, and D. B. Breed, Secretary. 

Freeport Chapter, No. 23, of the R. A. M. was chartered on September, 29, 
1854, to a limited number of members, with A. W. Rawson, High Priest ; 
Erastus Torry, King, and Julius Smith, Scribe. Since that date, notwith- 
standing the chapter has run the gauntlet of experience apportioned to nearly 
every undertaking in a race against the field, members have been added to its 
roster yearly, and to-day it is financially one of the most prosperous chapters 
in Northern Illinois. 

The present officers are Jacob Krohn, High Priest ; John Arthur, King, 
and Jackson S. Rogers, Scribe. 

The total membership numbers about one hundred, and meetings are held 
semi-monthly, on the first and third Tuesdays, in Masonic Hall. 

The Freeport Consistory, or lodge, belonging to the Ancient and Accepted 
Scottish Rite, was originally established at Decalf, whence it was removed to 
Freeport, May 14, 1869, where it still continues. The consistory is composed 
of the following : 

Grand Lodge of Perfection, consisting of one hundred members, officered 
by James A. Grimes, T. P. G. M. ; C. C. Snyder, H. T. ; M. D. Chamber- 
lin, V. S. G. W. ; E. L. Cronkrite, V. J. G. W. ; Thomas Butterworth, G. 0. ; 
S. A. Clark, G. T. ; J. W. Childs, G. S., and Levi Martin, G. Tiler. 

Convocations are convened on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each 
month. 

Freeport Council Princes of Jerusalem also meet on the second and fourth 
Wednesdavs of each month. Have one hundred members, with the following 
officers: S". D. Atkins, M. E. S. P. G. ; Jacob Krohn, G. H. P. Deputy Grand 
Master ; E. L. Cronkrite, M. E. M. S. G. W. ; M. V. Brown, M. E. S. J. 
G. W. ; John Erfert, V. G. Treasurer; J. W. Childs, V. G. Secretary and 
Keeper of the Seals; J. H. Snyder, V. G. M. of C. ; John Arthur, V. G. M. 
of E., and Levi Martin, Tiler. 

Freeport Chapter Pose Croix. — One hundred members, convene on the 
second and fourth Wednesdays of every month. The officers are : H. C. 
Hutchison, M. W. & P. M. ; W. S. Best, M. E. &. P. Kt. S. W. ; L. L. 
Munn, M. E. & P. Kt. J. W. ; M. Stoskopf, M. E. &. P. Kt. G. 0. ; E. Northey, 
R. & P. Kt. Treasurer ; J. W. Childs, R. & P. Kt. Secretary ; Levi Martin, Tiler. 

Freeport Consistory. — Convocations semi-monthly, on Wednesdays ; one 
hundred members and the following officers : E. C. Warner, 32°, Commander 
in Chief; James A. Grimes, 32°, First Lieut. Commander; W. D. Rowell, 
33°, Second Lieut. Commander ; I. S. Montgomery, 32°, Grand Orator ; 
G. A. Smith, 32°, Grand Chancellor; J. W. Childs, 32°, Grand Secre- 
tary ; M. D. Chamberlin, 32°, Grand Secretary, pro tern ; Jacob Krohn, 32°, 
Grand Treasurer; W. 0. Wright, 32°, Architect and Engineer; L. L. Munn, 33°, 
GrandM. C; J. S. Gates, 32°, Grand S. B., and Levi Martin, 32°,Grand Sentinel 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 461 

Freeport Commandery, No. 7, K. T., was organized under dispensation 
from Grand Encampment of the United States, August 19, 1857, A. 0. 739; 
chartered by the Grand Encampment of the United States at its Triennial 
Conclave held in Chicago September 3, A. D. 1859, A. 0. 741. This charter, 
however, was surrendered to the Grand Commandery of the State of Illinois 
October 26, A. D. 1859, A. 0. 741, which granted a perpetual charter on the 
same date, with the following members : Sirs Moses R. Thompson, Homer N. 
Hibbard, Loyal L. Munn, Henry H. Taylor, N. F. Prentice, Galon G. Norton, 
James F. Kingsley, H. Richardson and John M. Way. 

Sir Moses R. Thompson was appointed the first Commander, and followed 
by Nathan F. Prentice, who was elected in 1859, continuing in that capacity 
for four consecutive years. He has since been succeeded by Henry H. Tavlor, 
in 1863; L. L. Munn, 1864-65; M. D. Chamberlin, 1866 to 1871. In the 
latter year, E. L. Cronkrite was honored with an election to the command of 
the lodge, followed by W. J. McKim, in 1872 ; George Thompson, in 1873-74 : 
James S. McCall, in 1875 ; Edwin C. Warner, in 1876 ; Leonard T. Lemon, in 
1877; Henry Cyrus Hutchison, 1878, E. L. Cronkrite, 1879, and is the 
present Commander. 

The Freeport Commandery has enjoyed an excellent reputation from its 
organization, and ever been regarded as one of the strongest in the State ; it has 
furnished Sir Nathan F. Prentice as Grand Commander of the State in 1864, 
and Sir Loyal L. Munn, who is at present Grand Generalissimo of that body, to 
the State in leading capacities. 

The present membership is 110. Stated conclaves are assembled on the 
first and third Wednesdays of each month. 

Evergreen Lodge, No. 170, A., F. $ A. M., was organized in April, 
1855, under a dispensation granted by the Most Worthy Grand Master of the 
State of Illinois to the following brethren : A. T. Green, H. R. Wheeler, 
Charles Butler. Erastus Torry, James F. Kingsley, William Swanzey, J. F. 
Ankeney, E. W. Schumway and G. G. Norton. 

The first meeting of the Lodge was convened in the Masonic Hall, at the 
corner of Stephenson and Chicago streets, on Monday evening, August 16, 
A. L. 5855, A. D. 1855, since when regular communications have been held on 
the first and third Mondays of each month. 

The charter officers were J. A. W. Donahoo, W. M.; A. T. Green, S. 
W.; J. F. Kingsley, J. W.; H. R. Wheeler, Treasurer; Charles Butler, Secre- 
tary ; J. Crow, S. D.; J. Thomas, J. D.; and J. C. Walton, Tiler. The 
present officers are: Edwin C. Warner, W. M.; James A. Grimes, S. W.; 
Martin V. Brown, J. W.; Nathan Yount, S. D.; John H. Porter, J. D.; W. 
H. Cronkrite, Secretary ; Daniel Adamson, Treasurer ; William Swanzey, 
Chaplain, and Levi Martin, Tiler. 

The present membership is ninety-five, and the value of lodge property 
is rated at |6,000. 

MILITARY. 

The military force of Freeport consists of one company of soldiers, known 
as Company "C" Third Regiment, Illinois National Guards. 

This company was organized during the summer of 1877, when militia 
companies were generally organized throughout the State, on account of the 
labor strikes, as will be remembered, then prevailing. At that time, the State 
was without a military code, but the Legislature of 1876-77 adopted a law pro- 
viding for the formation of a limited number of regiments, under which Com- 
pany " C " was recruited by Capt. A. V. Richards, being empowered thereto by a 



462 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

commission dated July 7, 1877, with Henry Burrell and Orin Williams as 
Lieutenants. 

The upper story of a building on Bridge street, now occupied by Robinson's 
carriage factory, was secured for an armory, where the company met every Fri- 
day evening for drill, the non-commissioned officers meeting for the same pur- 
pose on Tuesday evenings. The company was at first uniformed at the expense 
of members, and equipped with Springfield breech-loading rifled muskets and 
their accouterments. By practice and drill, the company attained a considerable 
degree of proficiency in the manual of arms, movements, marching, etc., and 
impressed all who witnessed their efforts so favorably as to cause their assign- 
ment as the color company of the regiment. 

Pressing business affairs impelled Capt. Richards to tender his resignation 
during the fall of 1877, but, being disapproved by the Colonel of the regiment, 
was refused by the Governor. In the month of December the tender was 
repeated, accompanied by a personal request that it be accepted. This secured 
the desired release to Capt. Richards, and, in January, 1878, S. D. Atkins 
was elected his successor. Hettinger's Hall was secured shortly after, and the 
company was uniformed with funds raised by public subscription. 

Soon after the company was organized, Dr. Charles H. Stocking, of Free- 
port, was, upon the recommendation of Capt. Richards and his subordinates, 
appointed Regimental Surgeon, with the rank of Major, and is still in the 
service. 

The company now numbers fifty-five muskets, commanded by Capt. S. D. 
Atkins, with Henry Burrell and Orin Williams Lieutenants, and meets for 
weekly drill on Tuesday evenings. 

TEMPERANCE. 

/. 0. Cr. Templars. — One of the leading temperance societies in the city 
was organized on the 3d of March, 1876, at the hall on Stephenson street, with 
the following members : G. L. Piersol, F. B. and Miss E. L. Piersol, D. 
Thompson, W. T. Giles, T. M. Bradshaw, G. W. Blaisdell, R. W. Jones, J. P. 
Jones, A. R. Brown, C. C. Wolf, Kate V. Wolf, Sadie E. Wolf, Mrs. M. M. 
Meseck, Mary Oyler, John H. Wilson, Mattie H. Wilson, E. N. Race, Mrs. 
M. M. Hutchison, Minnie Peters, Ellen Guiteau, Alice Robey, Lucretia Bell, 
Minnie Hardin, A. Chamberlain, G. W. Hartman, Emma Baker, R. J. Hazlett, 
Jennie Massenberg, S. E. Clark, Benjamin Rhodes, Alice Hale, L. N. Welsh, 
T. E. Murphy and F. N. Endsley. 

The officers were J. T. Jones, W. C. T.; Mrs. M. M. Hutchinson, W. V. 
T. ; John H. Wilson, W. C. ; Alpheus R. Brown, Secretary, 

About one year ago the rooms of the Templars were established in Tem- 
perance Hall, Tarbox block, corner of Stephenson and Chicago streets, weekly, 
where the 200 members comprising the lodge discharge their official duties. 

The present officers are R. T. Hazlett, W. C. T. ; Emma Edwards, W. 
V. T. ; and C. C. Wolf, Secretary. 

The value of lodge property is estimated at $300. 

Sons of Temperance — Was organized on the 18th of February, 1878, by 
W. T. Giles, George M. Fugate, L. B. Sanborn, Sarah E. Sanborn, John Hart. 
J. H. Wilson, the Rev. G. D. Young, T. D. Hirst, the Rev. J. Giffen, Mrs. n! 
E. Hirst, and others, who elected as officers, N. F. Taylor, W. P.; G. M. Fugate, 
R. S.; John Hart, Treasurer, and the Rev. A. Giffen, Chaplain. 

The " Sons " have prospered since their first appearance before the public 
as advocates of the cold-water creed, and to-day include full forty names upon 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 463 

their roster of membership, with financial resources that enable them to pro- 
mote the cause they assume to labor in behalf of. 

The present officers are John R. Rosebrough, W. P.; Mrs. Charles 
Menzie, W. A.; T. D. Hirst, R. S.; Miss Clara Hunter, A. S.; Miss Powell, 
F. S.; Mrs. J. R. Rosebrough, Treasurer. 

Meetings are held weekly on Monday evenings, and society property is 
valued at several hundred dollars. 

The Freeport Reform Club. — Organized in 1875, and working in con- 
junction with other societies engaged in extending the influence of the temper- 
ance cause, the Reform Club numbered at one time upward of 1,600 members. 
Latterly, however, this number has materially diminished, though the work 
sought to be accomplished is of the most extensive character. 

The present officers are John Hart, President; William Swanzey, Vice 
President ; R. J. Hazlett, Secretary ; R. J. Hazlett, J. A. Sheetz, W. Swan- 
zey, Charles Menzie, Mrs. W. A. Stevens, Mrs. F. 0. Miller, and John Hart, 
Board of Trustees. 

Meetings are held at the call of the President, and club property is of 
nominal value. 

Woman s Christian Temperance Onion. — On the 10th of April, 1874, 
a meeting of the ladies of Freeport enlisted in the cause of temperance was 
held at the First Methodist Church with a view to ascertain what means could 
be best employed in the undertaking upon which they were engaged. Mrs. E. 
Marsh presided, Mrs. J. R. Lemon officiated as Secretary, and there were 
present Mesdames I. F. Kleckner, E. Hemmenway, F. 0. Miller, J. S. Best, 
L. Fisher, A. W. Ford, S. B. Gilbert, Miss A. Jenkins, and others. The 
present association was the outgrowth of this meeting, since when the founders 
and members have labored sincerely and earnestly, with results that have been 
gratifyingly successful. A constitution and by-laws were adopted at this 
meeting, and the following officers were elected : Mrs. J. R. Lemon, Presi- 
dent ; Mrs. I. F. Kleckner, Secretary, and Miss A. Jenkins, Treasurer, the 
Vice Presidents being composed of one from each congregation in the city. 
The meetings were held semi-weekly at first, until the association was gotten 
fully under way, when they convened but once a week, remaining at the First 
Church until March, 1876, when the place of meeting was changed to Tem- 
perance Hall, corner of Bridge and Chicago streets. 

Upon the formation of the State Association, the Freeport Society adopted 
the constitution and by-laws of the State Union, and has since been an aux- 
iliary thereto. At present the Freeport Division is composed of fifty active 
members, who are constantly engaged in the labors of temperance, meeting 
weekly, and aiding by every means at their disposal in promoting its encour- 
agement and growth, not only in their immediate section, but whithersoever 
their services can be utilized. 

The present officers are Mrs. F. O. Miller, President ; Mrs. E. V. Kever 
and Mrs. L. A. Warner, Secretaries ; Mrs. L. Sanborn, Treasurer. 

OTHER SOCIETIES. 

Independent Order of Mutual Aid. — An association claiming to promote 
benevolence, charity and mutual protection; to establish upon the mutual-aid 
plan a fund for the widows and orphans of deceased members, to foster a spirit 
of mutual co-operation, equalizing the benefits of the young and old. The 
order guarantees to each member in good standing the payment of $2,000, after 



464 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

death, to such person or persons as, while living, he may indicate; this sum being 
derived from initiation fees, dues and assessments. 

The lodge was organized in Freeport, June 30, 1879, with twenty-two 
members and the following officers : 0. B. Sanford, P. P. ; M. D. Chamberlin, 
President; W. W. Moore, Vice President; J. F. Beaumont, Secretary; W. H. 
Blosser, Financial Secretary; G. W. Whiteside, Treasurer. 

At present there are thirty-nine members, meetings are convened weekly, 
on Tuesday evenings, and the officers are J. H. Wilson, President ; I. N. Roland, 
Vice President; W. H. Blosser, Secretary, and G. W. Whiteside, Treasurer. 

J. H. Addams Lodge, No. 23, A. 0. U. W. — The lodge of this ancient 
and honorable order for the uniting of all workingmen in the defense and pro- 
tection of their own interests, etc., was instituted in Freeport on the 26th of 
December, 1876, with a total of twenty-two charter members. Meetings were 
held by those who subsequently became identified with the craft during the 
month of December, at Temperence and Odd Fellows' Halls, but organization 
was delayed until the date above designated, when the same was completed and 
Grange Hall procured for the meetings thereafter held. 

When in working order, the officers elected were: G. W. Blaisdell, P. M. 
W. ; David Burrell, M. W. ; S. E. Clark, Foreman; A. J. Runner, Overseer; 
John Wilson, Guide; C. Wolfe, Recorder; John J. Andre, Financier; C. 0. 
Wilson, Receiver; M. H. Eshelman, I. W.; H. H. Upp, 0. W. M. Herold, 
H. Barton and D. Burrell, Trustees ; H. Barton, C. 0. Wilson and S. De 
Frain, Business Committee. 

On the 4th of October, 1877, a move of the lodge furniture was made to 
Odd Fellows' Hall, and again on the 1st of January, 1878, to Krohn's Hall, 
at No. 105 Main street, where meetings are held on the evenings of the second 
and fourth Wednesdays in each month. 

In point of numbers the lodge has not increased since its institution, but 
in the amount of good accomplished and influence exerted, the Freeport chapter 
is to be highly commended. 

The present officers are A. J. Runner, P. M. W.; L. M. Devore, M. W.; 
B. B. Dreher, Foreman; M. Herold, Overseer; J. R. Perkins, Recorder; T. 
M. Brewbaker, Receiver ; I. Cohn, Financier ; J. W. Kiliion, Guide ; F. 
Rauch, I. W.; J. McKee, 0. W.; W. W. Hamilton, Trustee. 

Racine Division No. 27, Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers. — This 
organization of the railroad fraternity was established on the Western Union 
road at Racine, Wis., on the 10th of June, 1864, under the name and title of 
" Brotherhood of the Footboard." The association prospered at Racine, and 
attracted to its support the greater proportion of railroad engineers in the West. 
About October 1, 1871, a lodge was established at Freeport with fourteen mem- 
bers and the following officers : 0. C. Hill, Chief Engineer ; A. Cadwell, First 
Assistant ; W. 0. Stone, Second Assistant, and Jesse Parker, Chaplain. 

Meetings were held in Young's Block, on Stephenson, between Adams 
and Mechanic streets, which were attended, and productive of much profit 
to members. The objects of the society, as is well known, are for the benefit 
and protection of the fraternity and the care of their widows and orphans. 

The lodge was retained in Young's Block until 1873, when it was removed 
to the corner of Stephenson and Chicago streets, over the Stephenson County 
Bank, where it still remains. During the first ten years, a gratifying success 
has rewarded the efforts of members, and the lodge is now one of the most 
flourishing of the order. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 465 

It contains thirty-one members, with the following officers: W. A. West, 
Chief Engineer; George Dana, First Engineer; D. O'Halleren, Second 
Engineer ; L. W. Bullock, Charles Otis and William Dickinson, Assistants ; 
D. Cole, Guide, and Thomas Yates, Chaplain. 

Free-port Division* No. *28, Pioneer Relief Association of America. — An 
order of comparatively recent origin, with the home office at Galesburg, was im- 
ported into Freeport August 10, 1878, when fourteen members were initiated 
into the mysteries, and made partakers of the benefits of the association. These 
latter consist principally of the payment of $20, weekly, to sick or disabled 
members for a specified period. The money thus paid is obtained from initia- 
tion fees, and the further payment by members of quarterly installments, same 
not to exceed $12 annually. 

The charter officers still preside, and the number of members remains the 
same, five having died and five having been received during the past eighteen 
months. The officers are : C. G. Sanborn, President ; A. V. Richards, Vice 
President ; J. R. Perkins, Secretary. 

The Executive Committee consists of J. M. Race, Chairman ; J. H. 
Wilson, W. Reinhuber and W. W. Moore, with W. T. Wilcoxon Secretary ; 
J. C. Burbank is the Examining Physician, and a total of $ 400 has been paid 
out to members since the organization. 

German Benevolent Society. — An association of Germans, having for 
their object the care of the sick, burial of the dead, and protection of the 
widows and orphans of members. It was organized in the first instance during 
1872, with the following constituent members: Joseph Reineke, Charles Pfeiffer, 
Edward Kraft, Charles Otto, Jacob Kehrer, Jacob Demmel, Christian Pfeiffer, 
Anton Trapp, A. Schwarze, Ernest Kuenneth, Jacob Becher and Frank 
Bangasser. 

On February 5, 1874, the society was duly incorporated under the laws of 
the State, and has since attained a gratifying degree of prosperity, both in point 
of numbers and financial resources. To become a member requires that the 
applicant should be between the ages of 18 and 45, of reputable character, and 
free from ailment that would be likely to render him a burden upon the associa- 
tion. The initiation fee is graduated according to the age of petitioner, and the 
monthly dues are 25 cents. When sick, members receive an allowance of $4 
weekly, and if death occurs, decedent's family is paid $150. 

The present officers are M. Anslinger, President; John Koch, Vice Pres- 
ident ; E. Kuenneth, Secretary ; F. P. Ohden, Financial Secretary, and A. 
Schwarze, Treasurer. 

The membership numbers seventy-five, and meetings are held monthly, in 
the evening of each second Monday, at No. 81 Stephenson street. 

G-ermania Society. — Previous to 1877, the German residents of Freeport 
were members of either the Saengerbund or Turnverein. The former 
was a musical association, vocal and instrumental, organized in December, 1856, 
while the Turn Verein, which was established in August, 1855, sought excel- 
lence among its members, not only in music but also in athletic sports. These 
societies were always regarded as among the institutions of Freeport, and the 
most prosperous of the kind in the West. The Turn Verein erected what is 
known as Turner Hall, on Galena street, between Adams and Mechanics streets, 
in 1869, at a cost of $18,000, which remains to-day one of the most imposing 
structures in the eastern portion of the city. It is of brick, 60x90, two stories 
high, the first floor being devoted to store purposes, the second story to the hall 
of the society, wherein meetings are held and entertainments given. 



466 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY, 

The objects of both societies being similar, and each society numbering 
among its members many who belonged to both, it was decided to consolidate 
and more perfectly harmonize their interests. Accordingly, a meeting was held 
for this purpose on November 15, 1877, at which the following gentlemen were 
appointed a Board of Trustees to conclude arrangements in that behalf: Jacob 
Krohn. D. B. Schulte, F. J. Kunz, John Erfert, M. Hettinger, Philip Arno 
and W. H. Wagner. 

Subsequent meetings were convened for the furtherance of this object, at 
which a constitution and code of by-laws were adopted, other preliminaries dis- 
posed of, and the following officers elected : C. E. Meyer, President ; August 
Kraft, Vice President ; R. Hefty, Secretary ; M. Anslinger, Financial Secre- 
tary ; J. M. Walz, Treasurer, and Philip Knecht, Jr., Librarian. 

The association has since prospered, at this date including 200 names on 
the roll of membership ; meets the first Wednesday of every month, and during 
the winter furnishes musical and theatrical entertainments to its immediate 
friends. 

The present officers are C. E. Meyer, President; Jacob Kline, Vice Pres- 
ident; E. F. Spranger, Secretary; M. Anslinger, Financial Secretary; John 
Hoebel, Treasurer, and Philip Knecht, Jr., Librarian. 

The society property is valued at $25,000. 

Freeport Driving Park Association — Composed of gentlemen interested 
in developing speed and purity of breed in horses ; was incorporated on the 
10th of September, 1875, with forty-two members, and a capital stock of 
$10,000, of which $5,000 has been paid up. 

Immediately upon the orginization being completed and officers elected, 
the association projected a number of meetings for the exhibition of speed, which 
collected a field of famous horses, and promised to be remunerative. These 
were held as advertised, and more fully detailed in the notice of Taylor's Driving 
Park, but, owing to the indifference of citizens and lack of patronage, the meet- 
ings were abandoned. The association still lives, however, thoroughly solvent, 
and a member of the National Asspciation. 

Though meetings are held annnally, on the first Monday in April, the 
officers elected at the charter meeting still serve. These are J. B. Taylor, 
President; E. L. Cronkrite, Vice President; W. T Marshall, Treasurer, and 

A. C. Warner, Secretary. The Executive Board consists of John F. Smith, 
H. Lichtenberger, F. J. Middleditch, John Hoebel and H. M. Buckman. 

Freeport Shooting Club — An association composed of the leading citizens 
of Freeport, having for its object the more complete enjoyment of field sports, 
the protection of game and fish, and the enforcement of the game laws of Illi- 
nois. The club was organized, and a constitution and a code of laws estab- 
lished, July 23, 1878, at which an election of officers was held, resulting in the 
choice of L. Z. Farwell as President; Dr. W. H. Mills, Vice President; E. 

B. Hall, Secretary, and J. H. Staver, Treasurer. Jesse Rurchard, C. D. 
Knowlton, L. Z. Farwell, Dr. W. H. Mills and E. B. Hall, Executive Com- 
mittee. 

The charter members and those who took an active part in the organiza- 
tion of the club, were E. B. Hall, J. H. Staver, Jesse Burchard, George P. 
Rose, Jr., H. J. Porter, D. W. Burrell, B. W. Merrill, J. J. Piersol, O. B. 
Bidwell, W. A. Stevens, A. V. Richards, C. D. Knowlton, William Walton 
and L. Z. Farwell. 

The club has a handsome range about half a mile south of the court house, 
and adjoining the fair grounds, where practice at trap shooting is indulged, 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 467 

regular "shoots" being had on Friday afternoon of each week, and the member 
making the best score during the season is awarded a club badge. Spring and 
fall hunts are undertaken at some of the numerous shooting grounds, within 
easy access of the city, where camps are established, and the members come and 
go as their convenience permits. 

The present officers are E. B. Hall, President ; Dr. W. H. Mills, Vice 
President ; 0. C. Lathrop, Secretary ; C. D. Knowlton, Treasurer, with the 
following list of members E. B. Hall, D. W. Burrell, W. H. Mills, W. A. Ste- 
vens, L. Z. Farwell, 0. C. Lathrop, J. H. Staver, Jesse Burchard, C. D. 
Knowlton, B. W. Merrill, 0. B. Bidwell, William Walton, J. J. Piersol, B. 
H. Sunderland, A. V. Richards, George P, Rose, Jr., W. W. Moore, W. R. 
B. Smyth, and William Waddington. 

Great Union Band — A prominent and meritorious association for the cul- 
tivation of music and a taste for the art, was organized in the fall of 1875, with 
eighteen members under the leadership and management of Prof. D. S. McCosh. 
The society then was made up of members of the Young America and Ger- 
mania Musical Associations, which contained some of the choicest talent in 
the State ; as a result, the combination of to-day is regarded as not only strong 
but superior. The organization was maintained to its full strength until 1879, 
when the number was reduced to fourteen, and so continues. 

August Croft is the manager of the society affairs, and the property of the 
band is valued at $ 500. 

The band is now under the leadership of John Tappe, and meets weekly, 
on Tuesday evenings, for practice at the Band Hall, on Stephenson, between 
Mechanic and Adams streets. 

MILLS. 

Benjamin $ A. P. Goddard' s Mill — Located on the river bank at the foot 
of Adams street, is the outgrowth of the third saw-mill erected in Stephenson 
County. 

In 1846, soon after the Hydraulic and Manufacturing Company was incor- 
porated, Edward Hanchett and Charles Powell felled timber on the river bank, 
and shaped it for the raising of a saw-mill, which was immediately begun on the 
site of the present Goddard Mills. The building was finished in the fall of the 
same year, being constructed of square timbers, hewed into form with an ax, 
and, when completed, was 20x45, two stories high, and equipped with the tools 
peculiar to the business carried on therein, driven by a Parker wheel, a pattern 
long since gone out of date. The establishment was operated by its builders 
until 1847, when Hanchett's interest was transferred to D. A. Knowlton, who 
in turn disposed of the title thus acquired to Benjamin Goddard, who oper- 
ated the mill in conjunction with Charles Powell until October 8, 1851, when 
he became sole owner. 

In February, 1860, Benjamin and A. P. Goddard procured two run of 
buhrs, built an addition to the saw-mill, and advertised to do custom milling for 
residents in the vicinity. The capacity of this venture is estimated at 100 
bushels of grain daily, and, during the four years that the grist was ground, an 
extended patronage was secured. 

In 1864, A. P. Goddard became a member of the firm, and radical changes 
and improvements were begun and completed, which are still in use. The old 
saw-mill was torn down, the grist-mill improvised to supply a suddenly increased 
demand for its product, appropriated to other uses, and the present three-story 
frame, 36x46, was substituted, furnished with five run of buhrs, and put in 



468 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

working order at a cost of $12,000. It is complete in all details, with a capac- 
ity of 300 bushels of grain, and 500 bushels of feed daily, and does an extensive 
business for farmers, store keepers and citizens of Stephenson County and 
vicinity. Three hands are employed, and the annual business is quoted at 
$30,000. 

Webster £ Serf — Millers and manufacturers of feed, occupy an establish- 
ment at the foot of Bridge street, said to be the first of the kind erected in the 
present city of Freeport. The business was begun during 1849 or 1850, by 
John Lerch, who put up a convenient brick edifice, and, furnishing the same 
with three run of buhrs, began to supply the local demand. The power 
employed to run the mill was water, obtained from the Hydraulic and 
Manufacturing Company, and still serving that purpose. Mr. Lerch, con- 
tinued in the business of milling for about two years, as near as can 
be ascertained, when a cyclone razed the premises and put a period to his 
operations. A short time after this circumstance, Jerod Sheetz succeeded to 
the good will of Mr. Lerch, purchased the water-power, and, erecting the pres- 
ent two-story frame on the site of the old brick, began operations with improved 
facilities and increased capacity for work. In time, however, Mr. Sheetz dis- 
posed of his interest to Jacob Riegard, who remained in possession and active 
operation until 1866, when he in turn sold to Thomas Webster and William H. 
Rhodes, who still own the property. 

Under the management of the last-named firm, the mill was reconstructed 
throughout, and remains to-day one of the most complete enterprises to be found 
in the city. These gentlemen remained as operators until August, 1879, at 
which date the firm was dissolved, Martin Serf renting the share of Mr. 
Rhodes in the business, the latter removing to Kansas, where he recently died. 

The investment represents a valuation of $25,000 ; three hands are constant- 
ly employed, and the business aggregates many thousand dollars annually. 

BREWERIES. 

Freeport Brewery — Situated at the corner of Adams and Jackson streets, 
and conducted by Baier & Seyfarth, was opened to the public, in 1849, as a 
supply depot for malt liquors by Calvin McGee, with a capacity of about 200 
barrels per annum. A year's experience was sufficient to influence the sale of 
the premises, which were purchased by a Mr. Wade, who ran them until 1852, 
when a fire put a period to his proprietorship. They were rebuilt, and sold to 
E. Hetrich, who carried on a prosperous business for years, and died. His 
widow married William Beck, who perfected some valuable improvements, avail- 
ing himself of the advantages thus acquired for about four years, when Mrs. 
Beck was again widowed and succeeded to the business, conducting the same 
until 1869, when the present proprietors took possession. 

These gentlemen made further improvements to those completed under the 
administration of Mr. Beck, including an ice-house, brewery building and malt 
house, the same costing in the aggregate fully $10,000, and are at present 
engaged in the manufacture of a quality of lager not surpassed in the State. 

They employ eight hands, costing $250 per month, pay out nearly $1,500 
for materials for the same period, turn out about 4,000 barrels of beer annually 
and do a business estimated at $30,000 a year. 

Their investment is valued at $35,000. 

Albion Ale Brewery — Is a comparatively recent acquisition to the material 
prosperity of Freeport, having been established in 1865. To Joseph and 
George Milner is due the credit of its origin, who, appreciating the demand for 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 469 

pure ales, began their manufacture about the date above mentioned. The 
originators of the scheme built a roomy brewery, 120x30, on Chicago street, 
near Oak Place, supplied with every appliance necessary to a successful conduct 
of the business and the production of a superior grade of the beverage. In 
time, a wing 30x30 was added to the original structure, and the opinion is 
ventured that the premises will have to be still enlarged to accommodate the 
increasing demand for pale, stock and cream ales, and porter, bearing Mr. Mil- 
ner's brand. 

During the fall of 1879, the firm began the manufacture of beer, which 
has met with favor by consumers. 

The present capacity of the brewery is represented at 4,000 barrels annu- 
ally, though that amount is not produced every year. The trade is principally 
among farmers in this portion of the State, a very small proportion of the 
manufactured article being disposed of to saloons or retailers, and is quoted at 
about $10,000 per annum. 

The investment Mr. Milner considers worth $20,000. 

Yelloiv Creek Brewery — Is located on the old stage road from Freeport to 
Chicago, three miles from the city, and one of the oldest brewing establish- 
ments in the county, having been established in 1845 by M. Hettinger who, 
with John Hettinger, began in a small way and laid the foundation for a busi- 
ness that is at present of the most prosperous character. In 1856, Mr. Kachel- 
hofFer, who became a partner in 1852, retired from the firm, and Adam 
Aiker assumed charge of the interest thereby resigned (under this firm 
lager beer cellars were built), remaining until 1860, when his death created a 
vacancy, filled in the same year by Jacob Haegle, who purchased decedent's 
interest for $4,000. Immediately thereafter, additions were made to the origi- 
nal property, and, in conjunction with the original founder, conducted the busi- 
ness until 1869. During that year, Michael Roth purchased the Hettinger 
moiety for $7,500, when the firm became Haegle & Roth, and so remains. 

In 1872, improvements were made of an extensive character, embracing 
an ice-house, warehouse, etc., etc., commodious and convenient, and fitted with 
the latest machinery. The brewery buildings occupy an elevated site in the 
center of a nine-acre tract plainly visible from the suiTounding country, and 
valued at not less than $15,000. 

The firm gives employment to four hands, manufactures a total of 1,500 
barrels of beer annually, and does a business of $9,000 per year. 

Western Brewery. — The origin of this enterprise dates back sixteen years, 
or to 1864. During that year, Michael and Mathias Steffen, residents of Free- 
port since 1853, erected two massive stone edifices, each 100x40, and two 
stories high, to be devoted exclusively to the manufacture of a superior quality 
of lager beer. 

They began business under the most favorable auspices, and for many 
years occupied a prominent position in the trade, supplying dealers throughout 
the county with the very best brands of this delightful and exhilarating bever- 
age. They continued actively engaged until the latter portion of 1879, 
when the property, which consists of three acres of ground, together with the im- 
provements, was sold to Michael Huber, who is now in possession and carrying 
on the undertaking successfully. 

At the present writing, he employs six hands, at a weekly compensation 
of $40, turning out about 600 barrels of beer per year, but when trade, tem- 
porarily limited, increases, he has the capacity for placing double that quantity 
of the product on the market. 



470 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

He does an annual business stated at $15,000, and his investment is valued 
at two-thirds that amount. 

Freeport Vinegar Works, located at the foot of Spring street, was estab- 
lished early in the sixties, and has been severally owned and operated by Harris 
& Co., F. E. Josel & Co, W. S. Lamb and Charles E. Meyer, who is the pres- 
ent proprietor, having acquired title by purchase in 1873, for a consideration 
of $8,000. Immediately upon taking possession, Mr. Meyer effected improve- 
ments, increased the number of generators, and the capacity of production from 
1,200 to 4,500 barrels per annum, added to the buildings and accomplished 
other important changes. The premises at present consist of a three-story 
brick edifice, 100x50, with all the appurtenances indispensable to success in the 
business, located at a convenient point for shipment, and the headquarters of a 
thriving trade throughout Illinois, Iowa and Wisconsin. 

Mr. Meyer at present employs a complete and competent force of workmen, 
requiring the appropriation of $150 for their payment weekly, and does a yearly 
business of $35,000. 

MANUFACTURES. 

The Freeport Beet-Sugar Factory. — For many years prior to 1871, when 
this enterprise took shape and culminated in the erection of the factory build- 
ings, the subject of establishing an enterprise of the kind was thoroughly can- 
vassed by capitalists in various portions of the State. 

As early as 1867 Jacob Bunn, who was operating a beet-sugar factory 
at Chattsworth, in Livingston County, made overtures to C. H. Rosenstiel, of 
Freeport, for a removal of the business to the latter city. The experience of 
Mr. Bunn at Chattsworth had demonstrated that success and profit were the at- 
tendant concomitants of manufacturing sugar from beets — but, owing to a variety 
of causes, the success at that point had not been of that pronounced character 
which might be attained elsewhere. In consequence of this the factory, which 
had about $70,000 worth of machinery, was compelled to seek a new location 
where the soil, water facilities and other requisites could be obtained. The 
question of encouraging the enterprise was mooted for some years, but definite 
action delayed until about March 12, 1871, when a meeting of the citizens of 
Freeport convened at the opera house and discussed the situation. On the 
evening of April 8, of the same year, an adjourned meeting was held for the 
consideration of the subject. Finally negotiations were concluded and arrange- 
ments made for the transfer of the machinery from Chattsworth to Freeport, 
where it was insisted that superior advantages existed ; Prof. William Kull- 
berg, of Germany, and Prof. Clark, of Massachusetts, with other scientists, 
being unanimous in the opinion that land in the vicinity of Freeport was better 
adapted to the growth of beets, and other facilities for carrying on the busi- 
ness, such as the employment of labor, etc., abundance of water, etc., prompt- 
ing the removal. 

The merit of establishing this additional power for the development of the 
resources of Stephenson County is due in a great measure to C. H. Rosenstiel, 
who, convinced of its utility, sources of wealth and other advantages, faltered 
not till he had accomplished his object. He. in conjunction with Jacob Bunn, 
of Springfield, and John I. Case, of Racine, Wis., held title to the venture, 
and, after the disposition of preliminaries incident to the business proper, ground 
was broken on a tract of seven acres one mile east of the city, donated by Mr. 
Rosenstiel, and work on the buildings practically begun on the 18th of April, 
1871. The immense structures were constructed by contract, the laborers and. 
artisans employed thereon being residents of Freeport, and prosecuted so sue- 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 471 

cessfully that the same were gotten under roof during that year. Work was 
suspended during the winter, but resumed with the return of spring and con- 
tinued until completion in the summer of 1872. 

These buildings are two stories high, the main building, 377x65, running 
east and west. At the extreme eastern point of the latter the bone-black house, 
142x33, is located, adjoining which on the southwest stands the boiler and 
engine house, supplied with six boilers, which supply the power necessary to 
run ten engines of from ten to seventy-five horse-power each. Later in the 
same year, an addition 120x55 was made to the main building for the storage 
of beets, an office and residence on the main road for business and residence 
purposes, and five dwellings for employes east of the office were completed and 
ready for occupation. In August, the machinery and appurtenances thereto 
were placed. These consist of centrifugals, vacuum pans, filters, bone-black 
ovens, each supplied with thirty-two pipes, beet-grinders, copper kettles, etc., 
etc., and twenty-two miles of pipe, costing, with the buildings, a total of $167,- 
000, supplied by Rosenstiel, Bunn & Case. Still later in the same year, altera- 
tions and improvements were completed at an outlay of $50,000, and on the 
25th of September, 1872, the work of manufacturing sugar from beets, em- 
bracing three processes, was commenced. 

The beets are first macerated into fine pulp, and the juice pressed out by 
rapid centrifugal motion. This pulp is then subjected to a chemical process, in 
order that the sugar may be free to crystallize. This is done by mingling a 
certain proportion of the milk of lime, which seizes hold upon organic impuri- 
ties, iron, magnesia, oxides, and silica and phosphoric acids. The application 
of steam heat to the bottom of the tank, called the defecating plan, stimulates 
the formation of a thick scum, composed of impurities mingled with the lime. 
The liquid is then drawn off from beneath, care being taken to avoid disturbing 
this scum, and the juice is impregnated with carbonic acid gas, which absorbs 
the lime and albuminous matter remaining. The product is then filtered through 
animal charcoal, after which it is boiled down in vacuum pans, passing thence 
to the crystallization pans, freed from molasses by a second rapid centrifugal 
movement, and the raw sugar remains ready for refining, which, being com- 
pleted, is prepared for market. To do this work satisfactorily, required two sets 
of hands of eighty each, alternating day and night ; sixty-five tons of beets, 
which undergo seventeen processes, and twenty-five tons of coal. The product 
varied, of course, but the capacity of the factory is about 200 barrels of sugar 
per diem. 

The establishment was operated by Messrs. Rosenstiel, Bunn & Case dur- 
ing the seasons of 1872, 1873, 1874 and 1875, with indifferent results, owing, 
as has since been discovered, to the deficient means employed in carbonating 
the sugar. In the fall of 1875, some difficulties occurred as to the title of the 
several owners, which were settled by Mr. Rosenstiel gaining control, remain- 
ing in charge until the failure of Jacob Bunn, wdien that gentleman's interest 
was purchased by his surviving partners, who now own the property in the pro- 
portion of one-half each. It was operated as a beet-sugar factory until the fall 
of 1876, furnishing employment to a force of 200 men, at a monthly compen- 
sation of $7,000, and doing a business of $500,000 annually. 

In November, 1876, the premises were leased to G. A. Colby & Co. for a 
term of six years, at an annual rental of $8,000, who changed it into a glucose 
factory ; this continued for about one year, during which 7,500 barrels of 
sirup were placed on the market, netting the proprietors, it is said, a profit of 
$26,000. Notwithstanding this alleged prosperity, Messrs. Colby & Co. reached 



472 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

the end of their worsted at the close of the year. The profits accruing in the 
manufacture of an article, the consumption of which sustained life and promotd 
health, were sacrificed, it is said, in an effort to perfect a patent, the chief excellence 
of which was the security afforded in the care of man after death. In other 
words, what was made in developing the saccharine resources of corn juice was 
"dropped" in an effort to popularize an earthen burial case, rivaling all others 
in its capacity to resist nature's laws. The unexpired lease came into the pos- 
session of A. Collman & Co., bankers in Freeport, who in turn disposed of it 
for $12,000 to Veiller, Jayne & Co. — who are said to have established the first 
glucose factory in America, at Greenpoint, L. I. — commencing January 1, 
1879, and continuing until January 1, 1883. They put in four new runs of 
stone, erected a warehouse, increased the capacity of the factory, etc., and 
to-day consume 2,000 bushels of corn each twenty-four hours, or 600,000 
bushels annually, employing a force of 100 men at a monthly compensation of 
$6,000, and do a business of nearly $1,000,000 per year, paying for freights 
alone the sum of $150,000. 

The investment represents a valuation of about $250,000. 

W. Gr. $ W. Barnes, Manufacturers, Jobbers and Dealers in Agricult- 
ural Implements, Machinery , etc. — Located in the square bounded by Mechanic, 
Stephenson and Bridge streets, and one of the most extensive of the kind in 
Northern Illinois. The firm is composed of Walter G. and William Barnes, 
father and son, who commenced business in 1865, at Nos. 91 and 93 Galena 
street. In forming the partnership, the idea prevailed that it would continue 
many years, and, in the course of events, the father would be likely to retire 
before the son, hence it was thought best to place the name of the latter first. 
Mr. William Barnes, who had been engaged in commercial pursuits for years, 
removed from Pennsylvania to the West in 1857, and to Freeport, three years 
later. The son entered the army at the breaking-out of the war, and, barring 
a brief absence on account of ill-health, served with credit until the close of 
hostilities, when he returned to Freeport and entered as a partner in the pres- 
ent firm. 

Business was at first of a local character, but increased in volume with 
each succeeding year, until finally, from small beginnings, it has extended 
throughout the West, and become a source of immense profit to its founders. 

In 1874, so enormous had grown the demands of customers that it was 
found necessary to enlarge the capacity of their business. Thereupon, the old 
Montelius property, at the corner of Stephenson and Mechanic streets and 
extending to Bridge street, was purchased for $10,000, and improvements 
made thereon at a cost of $40,000. These latter consist of a warehouse and 
office, built of brick, one story high, 75x80, and containing every variety of 
agricultural implements, wagons, tools, etc., for sale. The machine shop is also 
of brick, three stories high, 60x40, supplied with machinery of every description, 
from the most powerful lathes and drills to the most delicate saw. Attached 
to this is the foundry, engine and boiler rooms, complete in every detail, repre- 
senting an investment of many thousands of dollars, and furnishing the means 
of employment to an aggregate force of sixty men, requiring a weekly outlay of 
$800 for wages alone. 

The line of manufacture includes the Invincible and Triumph walking cul- 
tivators, Peerless and hand rakes, hand and power shellers, harrows, fanning 
mills, hay elevators, grapples, hooks, barows, etc. The firm are also agents for 
Aultman & Co., of Canton, Ohio, and the business controlled by the Messrs. 
Barnes extends all over the West. Their customers reside in Illinois, Wiscon- 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 473 

sin, Iowa, Kansas, Colorado, Nebraska and California, and to supply their wants 
requires the employment of five traveling men, who are constantly on the road. 
The firm's business is stated at $250,000 annually, the largest of its kind in this 
portion of the State. 

F. S. Taggart's Foundry and Machine Shop. — An extensive industrial 
enterprise first started in Freeport, at the corner of Mechanic and Stephen- 
son streets, in 1876, where Mr. Taggart began with $25 cash and five hands, 
his undertaking being attended by the cheerful predictions of sympathetic 
friends that in about three months he would be open to engagements. Mr. 
Taggart, however, was undismayed by the prophecies of these self-constituted 
Cassandras, and continued to realize abundant success, at the close 
of the year his business footing up over $8,000. In 1877, he removed 
his foundry for the purpose of securing more desirable quarters, but, after 
a short stay, was obliged to again remove for similar causes, when he de- 
termined to erect a foundry that should contain room and conveniences more 
harmoniously proportioned to his business. A lot at the corner of Mechanic 
and Spring streets was accordingly purchased for $1,500, and in the fall of 
1878 ground was broken for the foundations of his present structures. These 
consist of a machine shop 100x40, two stories high, an engine house and foun- 
dry of smaller dimensions, each one story in height, all built of brick, and, 
when finished in 1879, a decided ornament to the eastern part of the city. 
They cost, complete and furnished, an aggregate of $10,000, were taken pos- 
session of in the spring of 1879, and have been run without intermission since, 
turning out immense quantities of stock, and attracting a wide-spread and 
remunerative custom. 

The manufactures of the establishment include castings, building fronts, 
pulleys, hangers, sleigh shoes, iron kettles, etc., etc. Thirty men are employed, 
at a monthly cost of about $1,500 ; the business is quoted at $70,000 annually, 
and the investment at $25,000. 

Novelty Iron Works — Occupy the corner of Chicago and Jackson streets, 
and are conducted by E. H. and Charles Morgan, composing the firm of " Morgan 
Brothers." The business was first established by the present firm in 1868, on 
the present site, in two small brick buildings, where a total of ten hands were 
employed in the machine-shop and foundry. In 1874, the old buildings, 
becoming too contracted, were torn away, and the present commodious quarters, 
consisting of a machine-shop, foundry, engine-room, and quarters connected 
therewith, substituted at an expense of $25,000. They are large, complete in 
all their appointments, and not surpassed in the city by any similar premises. 

In 1877, J. P. Easter was accepted as a partner, and the firm began the 
manufacture of plows on a large scale, which was continued about one year, 
when the original firm name was restored, Mr. Easter retiring, and has since 
remained. 

The business of the works, in addition to the usual class of castings turned 
out, include the Swords windmill, of which 300 are completed annually, farm 
pumps, store fronts, iron pavements, etc., etc., employing an average of twenty- 
five men at a monthly cost of about $1,000, with a business stated at $40,000 
per year. 

The investment at present represents a valuation of say $25,000. 

O. A . Stiles $ Co., Foundry and Machine- Shops. — Located on the river 
bank, between Stephenson and Bridge streets, were established October 1, 
1876, though Mr. Stiles and W. S. Lamb, composing the firm, had been en- 
gaged in the business elsewhere, as also in Freeport, for many years previous 



474 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

— the former in Rockton, with Richard Griffith, in the manufacture of fanning 
mills, and the latter in Ohio. These gentlemen bring to the business a long 
experience, and every improvement, either in design or practical utility, com- 
pleted at the present time, and applicable to agricultural machinery. 

Their manufacture includes cultivators of the "Favorite," " Peerless," and 
other brands ; the "Excelsior" fanning-mill, etc., etc., made of the best ma- 
terials and in the most thorough and workmanlike manner. In addition to the 
patterns cited, the establishment manufactures machinery to order; also, wind- 
mills, which are shipped to all parts of the West. Their business extends into 
the Territories, in addition to that transacted in Illinois and the Western States, 
requiring the services of twenty-five men, at a weekly salary of $300, to sup- 
ply the demand, and aggregating $40,000 per annum. 

The foundry is supplied with hydraulic and steam power, both of which 
are employed in operating the machinery. 

Freeport Machine, Boiler and Ornamental Iron Works — Was first estab- 
lished some years ago, by Walldorf & Wahller, but remained closed after this 
firm dissolved until July, 1880, when W. C. Siebert took charge, and is doubt- 
less at present operating the same. 

Windmill and Pump Factory. — That of H. Woodmanse, at the foot of 
Galena street, was established in 1872. As early as 1868, Mr. Woodmanse 
opened a depot for the sale of agricultural implements, in the Malburn Block, 
corner of Stephenson and Dock streets, devoting his attention particularly to 
handling the Marsh Harvester, 1,700 of which he disposed of in six years. At 
the date above mentioned he opened his present factory, which fronts on Galena, 
Dock and Railroad streets, possessing extensive facilities, and placing an im- 
mense amount of goods on the market each year. Latterly, he has confined 
his business to the manufacture of the Woodmanse Windmill, for which supe- 
riority is claimed over rival patents, and farm pumps, turning out 2,000 of each 
every year. 

He employs thirty-five men, and does a business of $100,000 annually. 

J. H. Snyder, Pumps, Ladders, etc. — Is located on the corner of Bridge 
and Adams streets, where it was originally established in 1862, by C. M. 
Shatter and J. H. Snyder, and the business conducted under the firm name of 
" C. M. Shaffer & Co." At first the manufacture was confined to wooden 
pumps of various patterns, but, experiencing a demand for sash, doors, blinds 
and other house furnishings, included these in the articles they placed upon the 
market. Along in 1870, finding the unpretentious quarters in which they had 
begun business nine years previous, too contracted, the firm erected the present 
handsome brick structure, finished substantially and adapted to their wants, at 
a cost of $3,000. The building is 38x70, three stories high, and with its 
appurtenances occupies a prominent place on the list of Freeport enterprises. 
In 1871, Mr. Shaffer disposed of his interest to H. H. Upp, and under the ad- 
ministration of the firm of which that gentleman at that time became one of the 
interested factors, additions in the shape of buildings, machinery, conven- 
iences, etc., were made to those cited, and supplied the demand made by increas- 
ing business. The new firm remained in existence until January, 1876, when 
a dissolution was concluded, Mr. Upp retiring, his interest being absorbed by 
that held by his partner, who thereafter, and at present is engaged in conduct- 
ing the affairs solus. 

He turns out 1,000 pumps annually, separate and apart from the other lines 
of manufacture that engage his attention, and does a business of not less than 





# ^Ufe^ 




FREEPORT 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 477 

$25,000 yearly, employing an average of twelve men, at a weekly compensa- 
tion of $100. 

Waddell Brothers' Planing- Mill — At the corner of Spring and Liberty 
streets, is one of the leading manufacturing industries of the sity. The firm, 
which consists of J. R. & T. L. Waddell, who have been residents of Free- 
port since 1846, was established in 1877, when these gentlemen became 
the successors of C. M. Shaffer & Co., largely engaged in the manufacture 
of sash, doors, blinds, moldings, brackets and all kinds of building mater- 
ials. At that date, the present firm purchased the Shaffer interest for 
$17,000, and have added largely to their purchase since. The business is 
conducted in a commodious brick building 44 x60, two stories high and equip- 
ped with new machinery of the latest and most approved pattern. The first 
floor is occupied by a boiler and engine room contained in fire proof apart- 
ments, the balance of the story being devoted to the manufacture of dressed 
lumber, doors, blinds, etc., and furnished with planers, saws, stickers, smooth- 
ing machines, etc. The second floor is used for finishing, polishing and details. 
This contains jig and rip saws, smoothers, mortising and blind-slat machin- 
ery of large capacity, for work in every department. 

The firm turn out an aggregate of 3,000,000 feet of dressed lumber 
annually, together with immense quantities of every grade and variety of manu- 
factured mill work, which find ready sale in all the suburban county towns 
within a radius of forty miles of Freeport. 

They employ a force of ten men, requiring the weekly payment of $70, 
and do a business of $20,000 annually. 

The investment is valued at $15,000. 

D. O. Stover s Experiment Works — Located in the old Presbyterian Church, 
at the corner of Walnut and Stephenson streets, have been recently established 
by Mr. Stover, who is an old citizen and identified with mechanical interests of 
the West for many years. Mr. S. is the inventor of a wind-will bearing his name, 
barb fence wire machinery, and other patents made practicable ; he first came 
to Freeport in 1866, and became connected with the establishment of Jere 
Pattison, then with Stiles & Jenkins, machinists and engine builders, and 
finally opening works at the place above designated. His line of work will 
consist of originating and completing plans and improvements in machinery, 
which will be patented, tested and sold, the manufacture of which will be car- 
ried on elsewhere by the purchaser or assignee. The works are at present writ- 
ing far from completed, but their readiness for business will not be delayed 
beyond early in the fall. When running to full capacity, Mr. Stover will 
employ a force of six hands, and anticipates carrying a large stock. 

J. W. Henney §■ Co., Carriage and Buggy Manufacturers. — The present 
extensive business of this firm is the result of a small beginning made by the 
senior partner eleven years ago at Cedarville, one of the thriving suburban 
towns that light up and beautify the landscape of Stephenson County in the 
neighborhood of Freeport. In 1869, Mr. Henney opened a shop in that vil- 
lage for the "building" of wagons and other qualities of rolling stock with 
"one fire" and three men. 

Seven years of apprenticeship to the needs of the purchasing public had 
brought Mr. Henney into close communion with the requirements of the mar- 
ket, and enabled him to turn out a superior quality of workmanship which 
created a demand that has increased with years, and, at present, is found 
difficult to supply. In 1876, he increased the capacity of his works at Cedar- 
ville, and formed a partnership with John Wright, at the same time opening a 



478 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

repository for the storage and sale of his goods in the Germania Hall, on Galena 
street, city of Freeport. Business increased, as was expected, and, in 1878, Mr. 
Henney purchased " Saladee's Eclipse Spring," the substitution of which for 
the elliptic and other springs previously used in the manufacture of his buggies, 
Mr. H. thinks has contributed materially to the success which has attended his 
business. 

On the 1st of December of the same year (1878), he removed his manu- 
factory to the city, locating at the corner of Stephenson and Adams streets, 
and increasing his laboring force to forty men, when 0. P. Wright became a 
partner by the transfer to him of one-half the interest held by John Wright. 
The orders during this and the following year became so numerous, and the 
amount of stock it became necessary to carry so large, that, in 1879, the build- 
ings erected for the convenience of the Huber Carriage Works, at the corner of 
Bridge and Adams streets, were obtained, and a final move made thereto. In 
these enlarged premises a vehicle is begun in the rough in one portion, and sent 
out from the shipping room complete in every detail, and as handsome in finish 
as a bit of choice furniture. The manufacture of the firm includes extension 
phaetons, carriages, wagonettes, coal box, whitechapel, piano box and other 
styles of road wagons, together with coaches, landaus, cabriolets, democrats, etc., 
etc., supplied with the eclipse spring, which is said to be an outgrowth of the 
Dexter and Triple springs, combining all known improvements on the extension 
springs, possessing durability, and rendering the ease of riding superior to that 
furnished by the elliptic and other springs. 

The firm manufacture 600 vehicles of the choicest descriptions annually, 
consuming 3,000 yards of broadcloth and 1,000 hides in their work, employing 
forty men, under the supervision of Frank Northrop, at a weekly cost for wages 
of $300, and doing a yearly business estimated at $100,000. 

Kline s Carriage and Wagon Factory — Situated at the corner of Van Buren 
and Bridge streets, was founded by Jacob Kline, in October, 1858, and is the 
oldest enterprise of the kind, established and carried on by the same person, in 
Freeport. His business, at first limited, has increased to large proportions, and 
the small, contracted and inconvenient quarters originally occupied, have gradu- 
ally developed into a commodious manufactory. 

In 1860, he razed the frame premises that then occupied the present site, 
substituting therefor a handsome brick edifice, which received additions in 1871, 
and again in 1875, until to-day his establishment is one of the most prominent 
on the street. His line of manufacture embraces buggies, carriages, spring and 
farm wagons and other vehicles of travel, and his business each year foots up a 
total of $15,000. 

Ten hands are employed requiring the sum of $125 weekly, and his invest- 
ment is represented as worth $10,000. 

Novelty Carriage Works — Located near the corner of Chicago and Bridge 
streets, are conducted by J. L. Robinson; turn out a superior quality of work, 
which has met with more than ordinary demand throughout the county. The 
business was commenced at Ridott, in 1873, by Mr. Robinson, where he 
remained for three years, supplying the calls of customers, which gradually 
increased in numbers, until they became too numerous for the comparatively 
limited resources to be there obtained, when he removed to Freeport and estab- 
lished himself in the brick building he at present occupies, erected especially 
for his accommodation. Here he has every facility for the manufacture of vari- 
eties of buggies and wagons, the construction of which is under the supervision 
of skilled mechanics, whose efforts are directed to excellence in the product. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 479 

The patronage received is merited and aids largely not only in encouraging 
home industries, but also in building up and benefiting the city. 

Mr. Robinson employs an average of eight hands at a weekly compensation 
aggregating $100, and does a business of $14,000 annually. 

The investment is valued at $10,000. 

Carriage Works of T. L. J. Klapp — Located at the north end of Chicago 
street, was established in 1857 by John Klapp, at the corner of Chicago and 
Galena streets. Here he remained, building up a business and acquiring prom- 
inence and reputation, until some time during the war, when his enterprise was 
overtaken by fire and entirely consumed. Soon after this calamity, he erected 
a portion of his present establishment, which, with additions since made, is now 
90x44, three stories high, built of brick, and favorably adapted to the business 
for which it was designed. 

In 1873, Mr. Klapp retired from active participation in the affairs of the 
works and was succeeded by his son, the present proprietor, who has enlarged 
the facilities, and is to-day constantly occupied in the building of every descrip- 
tion of vehicle, from a skeleton to a double-seated carriage, employing ten hands 
at a weekly expense of $75, and doing a business of $20,000 per year. 

The investment represents a valuation of $10,000. 

Carriage and Wagon Factory of John Wertman — Was established in 
Freeport twenty-two years ago, one of the earliest, if not the original, under- 
taking of the kind begun in the present city. His establishment first material- 
ized in a hollow on Bridge street, between Clay and Van Buren streets, where 
he began in a small way and with but moderate encouragement. In 1856, he 
removed to his present quarters, where, with one or two exceptions, he has since 
remained. His manufactures embrace every grade of buggies and spring wag- 
ons, employing five hands, and doing an annual business of $2,000. 

Mr. Wertman's shops are on the ground occupied by the first schoolhouse 
erected in Freeport. 

Emmerys Churn Factory — Situated on Manufacturer's Island, near the 
foot of Adams street, was established in 1868, since which time an extended 
business has been built up, and a permanent success guaranteed. Prior to this 
date, Mr. Emmert was engaged in the hardware business on Stephenson street, 
in the house at present occupied by Burchard k Scott, where he was more 
prominently identified with the trade than any other dealer of the kind in Free- 
port. Early in 1868, having perfected certain improvements in the ordinary 
churn, combining simplicity, durability, etc., he began their manufacture, and 
placed them on the market under the name of the "Climax" churn. His first 
beginning was made in a small, unpretentious building at the corner of Chicago 
and Spring streets, where, with three men, he sought to gladden the hearts 
of dairymen and women throughout the land by the building of a churn 
which should effect a revolution in the art of butter-making. He remained 
here for about one year, when the limited room afforded for work compelled a 
removal to the third story of a building on the site of that at present occupied. 
In 1870, Mr. Emmert's business was temporarily suspended bv a visitation of 
the elements, in which the premises were destroyed by fire, his net loss being 
$8,000. The place was rebuilt at once, however, Mr. Goddard, the owner of 
the same, substituting a handsome two-story brick for the ancient building 
burned down, into which Mr. Emmert moved in 1871, and has since occupied. 

His manufactures embrace the "Climax" churn, "Emmert" windmill, 
"Emmert" step and extension ladders, "Emmert" patent elastic check ease, 
and tread-powers, employing an average of twelve hands, at a weekly cost of 



480 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

$120, and doing a business of $50,000 per year. His investment is quoted at 
$10,000. 

Taylor s Tannery — Located on the east bank of the Pecatonica ; was 
established in 1864, on Jackson street, near the gas works. Here Mr. Taylor 
operated a total of fifty vats, requiring the services of ten men, and doing a 
large business until January 8, 1878, when his establishment was destroyed by 
fire, entailing a loss of $12,000. 

Immediately upon being rendered " homeless " by this visitation of the ele- 
ments, Mr. Taylor erected his present establishment, of which, within the year in 
which his tannery on Jackson street was burned, he took possession and was again 
at work. The building is of brick, 120x55, three stories high, containing forty 
vats, and giving employment to nine hands, from whose labor he turns out 
8,000 pieces annually. 

In this connection, Mr. Taylor carries on a manufactory of horse-collars, 
at his store on Stephenson street, where he employs five hands, placing 750 
dozen collars on the market per annum, which find ready demand in Wiscon- 
sin, Illinois, Iowa and the Territories. 

The tannery consumes 300 cords of bark annually, and for stock to sup- 
ply this and the collar factory necessitates the expenditure of $34,000 each year. 

Hoover's Soap Factory — Conducted by D. Hoover, was begun in the 
first instance during the year 1866, on Galena street, opposite Turner Hall. 
He remained here until the fall of 1873, when he removed to his present site, 
on the Cedarville road, three-quarters of a mile north of the city, where, after 
experiencing the total loss of his establishment by fire twice, once January 28, 
and the second time on February 20, both in the current year (1880), he com- 
pleted his building, and is once more engaged in business. The last factory 
built is of frame, 24x55, two stories high, and, though far from being a Sala- 
mander, the proprietor indulges the hope that he has provided such safe-guards 
against future attack, that he will be spared a repetition of his previous losses. 

He manufactures 100,000 pounds of laundry soap each year, which finds 
a market throughout the State, employs a force of four hands, at a weekly com- 
pensation of $30, and does an annual business of $15,000. 

The investment is valued at $2,500. 

The Copper Scroll Lightning Rod Company — Was organized in the year 
1861 by Oscar Taylor, a resident of Freeport since 1842, and one of her enter- 
prising spirits. Upon completing arrangements for the manufacture of his 
commodity, Mr. Taylor leased the premises at the corner of Bridge street and 
Galena avenue, where for many years he carried on the trade, employing a 
large force of men and consuming immense quantities of raw material. 

In 1867, the present company was incorporated, with a capital stock of 
$25,000. D. H. Sunderland was elected President, with Oscar Taylor, Secre- 
tary, and the capacity of the establishment was largely increased, turning out 
some years 210,000 feet of rod, in the manufacture of which 30,000 pounds of 
copper were utilized. In 1873, the hard times and stringency in the money 
markets induced the company to contract its trade and limit its manufacture to 
the demand of responsible customers, and since that date it has been so employed 
in a business, which, though not so extensive as heretofore, is eminently remuner- 
ative and safe. The manufactory now occupies quarters in the basement of the 
German Insurance Building, and is constantly operated under the management 
and direction of Oscar Taylor, the original founder. 

Soda Water Factory — Maintained by Galloway & Snooks, occupies a 
building near the corner of Jackson and Walnut streets, erected forty years ago 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON CWNTY. 48 J 

by Benjamin Goddard, when it was one of the first hotels known to Freeport, 
and as such furnished food and shelter to many who came West at that early 
day to grow up with the country. 

The present business was established in 1872, as the successor of Crotty 
Brothers, and includes a patronage extending throughout the city and adjoin- 
ing country. 

The line of manufacture is soda water, champagne cider, root beer, etc., of 
which an aggregate of 2,000 gross are put upon the market annually, furnish- 
ing employment to four men, at a monthly cost of $125, and doing a business 
of $3,000 per year. 

The investment represents a valuation of $5,000. 

John Jacob Himes Cooper Shop — One of the largest enterprises of the 
kind west of Chicago, has had a local habitation and name in Freeport for up- 
ward of a quarter of a century. Mr. Himes first came to the city of his adoption 
and future home from Pennsylvania in 1850 a practical cooper, and entered 
the service of Jacob Smith, where he remained about one year. In 1851, he 
established a shop near the corner of Liberty and Washington streets, and, 
unaided by adventitious circumstance or exterior influence, laid the foundation 
for that extensive business with which he has for many years been so intimately 
associated. In 1853, he became associated with the son of his first employer in 
the West, and, in 1857, removed to his present site. He purchased the lot for 
$100, which was drained and raised to a level with the street at great expense, 
and erected a commodious shop, supplied with all the equipments his then large 
and growing business demanded. Soon after, he put up a store-room on the same 
premises, 118x24, which was subsequently re-modeled into a machine-shop for 
the manufacture of materials. At that time he employed a force of twenty men, 
and turned out a total of 25,000 barrels, made up for flour, pork and whisky. 
Here he continued until 1868, when business stagnation and limited demands 
for his product influenced him to remove to Boscobel, Wis., where he added 
largely to his fortune in the manufacture of staves, hoops, etc., for the Mil- 
waukee and Chicago markets. After nine years' experience in his new field, 
he returned to Freeport, re-establishing himself in his old quarters, and began 
the manufacture of barrels for the sirup company, in which he is still en- 
gaged. 

He employs a force of thirty men, with a weekly pay-roll of $250, turning 
out 25,000 barrels annually, and doing a business of $30,000 per year. 

His investment is rated at $10,000. 

Freeport Lime Works — Were established in 1868 by Bernard Hunke- 
mier and Anton Behring, and have since been attended with a successful 
experience. They consist of three large kilns, erected in the year mentioned, 
at a cost of $2,500 each, and with a combined capacity of 720 bushels per day 
of a superior quality. These gentlemen conducted the business, with an office 
in Chicago, until 1873, when Mr. Hunkemier disposed of his interest to Elias 
Perkins, after which the firm was known as Behring & Perkins, and so continued 
until 1877, when Mr. Behring assumed entire control. 

The works are located in an immense quarry west of the city, on the line 
of the Illinois Central Railroad, complete in every particular, and turn out 
what is conceded to be a superior quality of lime, thoroughly burned, and with 
a very small percentage of waste. 

In November, 1878, Frederick Gund and others obtained control of the 
business, paying $6,750 for the improvements, though Mr. Behring remained 
in charge until January 1, 1880, when the present firm of Lawless Wohlford 



4-82 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

& Co. rented the works for one year for a consideration of $545, and are now 
operating the same. 

The firm employ a force of seven men, at a weekly salary of $100, and 
anticipate the business will foot up $10,000 during the period of their tenancy. 

Freeport Brick Company — Was established in 1872 by Thomas and Pat- 
rick Grant, incorporated in June, 1873, and offers superior inducements to citi- 
zens contemplating the erection of any kind of buildings. The yards are located 
at the corner of Galena avenue and Wissler street, consisting of ten acres, the soil 
of which is peculiarly adapted to the business, and equipped so completely that 
the firm is able to mold 20,000 per diem, or 3,000,000 during the season of five 
months devoted to work. These include pressed and common grades, and find 
ready sale throughout Stephenson and adjoining counties, some of the promi- 
nent edifices in Freeport, including the Baptist Church, being constructed of 
this product, which, by the way, was awarded the first premium at the State 
Fair holden at Peoria in 1873. 

The Grant Brothers have been residents of Freeport for the past twenty 
years ; are identified with the interests of the city, and are shrewd, enterprising, 
liberal-minded citizens, who have built up an enormous business by the exercise 
of tact, industry and reliability. 

They employ a force of eighteen men, at a weekly cost of $100, and value 
their investment at $10,000. 

Truncks Brick Yards — Owned and conducted by Frank and Oliver 
Truncks, are located on Galena avenue, corner of Foley street, where they 
were established in 1872. 

The brothers manufacture a total of one million five hundred thousand 
brick of common and superior grades per annum, employ an average of eight 
hands, and do a business of $5,000 each year. 

Edwin Perkins' Brick Yard — Located on five acres of ground at the 
eastern extension of Adams street, was established in 1855, by the gentleman 
whose name heads this notice. During the season, which extends from May to 
November, Mr. Perkins manufactures a total of seven hundred and fifty thou- 
sand brick of various grades of excellence, which are sold in all parts of the 
county He employs eleven men, at a weekly cost of $80 ; does a business of 
$3,000 annually, and regards his investment as worth $5,000 

ROCK GROVE TOWNSHIP 

occupies the northeast corner of the county, contains upward of 16,950 acres 
of improved land, which, with regard to its quality and agricultural resources, 
is not surpassed by that of any township in the county. An abundant supply 
of valuable timber is to be found scattered over the township, notably at Rock, 
Walnut and Linn Groves, suitable for building and other mechanical purposes, 
and the water facilities are equally desirable. There are no large streams, but 
a multitude of excellent springs, which form the head-waters of Rock Run and 
Cedar Creek, and, with their branches, are distributed quite generally through- 
out the township. 

The farms, which are usually large, are under a high state of cultivation, 
and cultivators harvest generous returns for the care and labor bestowed to de- 
velop and enrich them. Corn, wheat, oats, rye, and the fruits peculiar to this 
section, are grown in abundance, while hogs, sheep and cattle are raised in large 
numbers. The schools and churches afford means of temporal and spiritual 
education, and its only village of "Rock Grove" is inferior to none in the 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 483 

county as a place of retreat from the cares of business, or residence where hap- 
piness and comfort must be prime factors in man's daily life. 

As near as can be ascertained, no permanent -settlement was made in the 
township earlier than 1835, though prospectors and transients came previous, 
but tarried only long enough to rest and recuperate, when they, as a rule, 
pushed on to more distant points. 

About the summer of 1835, Albert Albertson, accompanied by Jonathan 
Corey, made their way into the county from the East, and, having pursued 
their journey as far as the Grove, pitched their tent and decided to remain. 
Each entered claims in Section 36, and made some improvements during the 
summer, which were used by Eli Frankeberger upon the latter's reaching their 
site. He came with his family from Champaign Co., Ohio, and settled in the 
present town of Rock Grove during December of the same year. Hardly had 
he located before his wife was confined of a daughter, who was christened 
"Louisa Frankeberger," and is remembered as the first birth in the township. 

The winter of 1836 was one of hardship and trial to the new-comers, who 
persevered, however, and have left the result of their labors to keep their mem- 
ory green forever and ever. Josiah Blackamore is reported to have come in 
the same year. 

In 1836, there were few, if any, who selected Rock Grove as an abiding- 
place, but in 1837 they came more numerously and with beneficial results, as 
the sequel proved, to the county. Among these were Joseph Musser, settling 
in Sections 19 and 20, Thomas and Samuel Chambers, William Wallace, 
etc. Samuel Chambers settled in Sections 19 and 24, while Thomas built his 
home in Sections 25 and 26, Mr. Wallace in Section 36 ; a Mr. Moon entered 
a claim on the east side of the Grove the same year, in Sections 31 and 32, as 
also did Joseph Osborn ; he opened a farm in Section 35 and entered a claim to 
timber lands, located in Section 30. Samuel and Daniel Guyer " squatted " 
in Section 31, where the village of Rock Grove now is ; in fact the original 
plat of the village included " Guyer's Addition." 

The first marriage is said to have occurred during the winter of 1836-37, 
though this question is in dispute. Josiah Blackamore is reported as having 
been one of the " noble army of volunteers," who aided in expediting the depart- 
ure of the Indians when the removal of these residents was decided upon by the 
Government. While en route to the frontier, so goes the story, Blackamore 
became smitten with the charms of Miss Wallace. When the cruel war ended, 
he returned to Rock Grove and, settling, plied his suit so successfully that the 
young lady, unable to resist his entreaties, accepted the overture made, and they 
ere accordingly married at the time quoted, which allegation, however, is without 
foundation in fact. Miss Wallace and Mr. Blackamore were married in Green 
County, Wis., at the time stated. 

Albert Albertson and Lavina Albertson have friends who contend that 
their claims for the disputed honor are entitled to precedence. They were 
united along in 1838 by Eli Frankeberger, who in that year was laden with the 
dignity attaching to the office of County Justice, in addition to the other 
obligations imposed by citizenship. On April 19, 1839, Elijah Clark and 
Harriet Hodgson were united at Walnut Grove by Squire Kinney. 

In the fall of 1839, Solomon and Jacob Fisher came in from the East and 
made claim to 600 acres of ground in Sections 25 and 26, which they divided 
between them. The claim had been previously entered, it is believed, by a miner 
named Drummond, who had erected a cabin 16x16 and made a well. The 
claim with the improvements, however, came into the possession of the Fisher 



484 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

boys, by purchase, it is said. During the season of 1839-40, the emigration to 
Rock Grove had been comparatively generous, including, among others who 
came, Peter D. George and. John Fisher, Calvin Preston, J. S. Potter, John 
Kleckner and others, all settling at the Grove, and remaining in that vicinity 
about a year, when they "scattered," some going to the northern tier of sec- 
tions, others to the western tier, and others to the immediate vicinity of their 
first halting-place. In the spring of 1840, John and Reuben Bolender, father 
and son, established themselves east of the village, and George and Jacob 
Maurer in the Grove in Sections 29 and 30 ; a settler named, it is thought, 
Joseph Barber, also came in about the same time. Opposite the Grove was a 
vast prairie, with the timber in the western horizon, presenting a picture of rare 
beauty. Through that year constant additions were made to the population, 
including Levi, Adam and Michael Bolender ; the latter removing to Oneco in 

1841, the two former remaining and opening farms east of the village. In 

1842, Solomon Fisher erected a cabin at the head of Cedar Creek, which has 
since been changed for the commodious home now occupied by that gentle- 
man. 

During the summer of 1842 or 1843, William Wallace hung himself to a 
tree on the edge of the Grove in Section 36, a half-mile northeast of Jacob 
Sullivan's present house. He, too, was the victim of insanity, and the old set- 
lers say his was the first death announced in the township. He was buried in 
the vicinity where his tragic death occurred. 

At the date mentioned, the inhabitants, who previously depended upon 
Galena and other points for supplies, had them at home ; indeed, subsequent to 
1839, no difficulty was experienced in obtaining meat, flour or meal. The Grove 
was alive with hogs, and the Curtis Mills, at Orangeville, Van Valzah Mills, 
at Cedarville, and mills on Rock Run were easily accessible and equal to every 
demand. 

Some time in 1843, the farm of a settler named Daniel Noble, located near 
Walnut Grove, was the scene of a mysterious tragedy, wherein a man well 
known under the name of Boardman, employed in a subordinate capacity by 
Noble, was shot to death ; but the causes which led thereto, as also the assassin, 
are as much involved in mystery to-day as they were forty years ago. 

In 1844, Government lands in the township were offered at public sale, 
and sold for $1.25 per acre in gold, the failure of the United States Bank 
estopping the Government from receiving any medium but gold and silver in 
exchange. It was apprehended at the time that trouble would arise between 
"squatters" and the purchasers, at the sale, growing out of a refusal of the 
former to perfect the latter's title by transfer of the property purchased, but 
claimed by right of pre-emption. Happily, this was entirely avoided, and, while 
similar causes elsewhere produced the results anticipated in other localities, 
Rock Grove was spared the affliction. 

In 1846, a school was begun in the township, in Section 36, and thereafter 
the cause of education and other attendant circumstances of comfort and pros- 
perity were portions allotted the township in the lottery of the future. In 1850, 
the township was set apart, and becoming, as above written, one of the favored 
townships in point of fertility, productiveness and natural resources, has in the 
past twenty-four years fully realized unto the inhabitants gathered within its 
limits, the fullest fruition of promises held out to them nearly half a century ago, 
as inducements to remain. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 485 



ROCK GROVE VILLAGE 

is located in Section 31, a place of quiet, unpretentious beauty, one of the lovely 
villages of the plain, containing upward of a hundred inhabitants and every 
feature that would contribute in any degree to satisfy modest ambition. 

C. W. Cummings originally owned the land upon which the village is 
located, which he sold to Peter D. Fisher in early days. Fisher also owned 
the east half of the southwest quarter of Section 31, 9, 29, and Samuel Guyer 
the west half of the same quarter and section. Guyer laid off the village about 
1850, but in July, 1855, Benjamin Dornblazer re-surveyed and replatted what 
was then known as Guyer's Addition, about the center of the town. 

On the 29th of August, 1856, J. D. Schmeltzer set apart nine acres in the 
west half of the southwest quarter of Section 31, 9, 29, caused it to be sur- 
veyed and set apart in lots for village purposes, under the name of Schmeltzer's 
Addition. 

It should be stated that in the winter of 1852, the addition of Peter G. 
Fisher was sold to Solomon Hoy, and abandoned for village purposes, but on 
April 22, 1869, Samuel H. Fisher laid off four acres south of Schmeltzer's 
Addition, for village lots, in use for that purpose. 

The village is not thicky settled, each resident having breathing and living 
room sufficient, without encroaching upon his neighbor's comforts or privileges. 
It is supplied with a handsome church edifice, schoolhouse, etc., and will always 
afford a grateful rest to the permanent or transient visitor. 

Evangelical Church. — Previous to 1878, the members of this society held 
services in the Lutheran Church, near the village, put up in 1856. In 1878, 
the increase in membership induced the congregation to build a church of their 
own, which was completed the same year, under the direction of a build- 
ing committee, consisting of George Meyers, Jere Swartz, Jacob Sullivan, 
William Alexander and A. Bolender, at a total cost of $2,300, raised by 
subscription in the township. The church was formally dedicated on the 
27th of November, 1878, and has been constantly occupied since. 

At present, services are held in English on alternate Sundays, under the 
pastorship of the Rev. W. W. Shuler, and in German, alternate Sundays, the 
Rev. J. Shafle, officiating. 

The German Reformed and Lutheran congregations own a church about 
one mile from the village, in which services are held occasionally, under the 
auspices of either sect, circuit riders attending to the pastoral duties. 

The remaining churches in the township are located in Sections 3, 20 
and 22. 

Schools. — Institutions of learning, of course of the most primitive character, 
were first rendered available about 1841, when Paul Chandler, or some other 
equally venturesome pedagogue, wielded the birch and educated the callow idea 
into a complete familiarity with the rudiments of learning. 

To-day the school system that is in force throughout the county, is 
regarded as equal to the requirements. In the township, there are schools at 
every cross-road, and one of more than ordinary importance at Rock grove Vil- 
lage. Here, the attendance averages seventy-five daily, during the winter 
term, and $600 per annum are expended in its support. 

The cause of education, like that of morals, is extended a generous and 
sincere support throughout the township. 



486 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



ROCK RUN TOWNSHIP, 

located in the western tier of townships, is one of the largest and proportion- 
lately wealthy sections into which the county is divided. The soil is product- 
ive, and comprehends 70 per cent of the territory, the balance being grown 
up with timber. It contains upward of thirty thousand acres, is watered by 
Rock Run, furnishing abundant power for mill, and other mechanical under- 
takings, and is divided in the center from east to west by the Milwaukee & 
St. Paul Railway, which has been largely instrumental in developing the town- 
ship's resources, appreciating the value of property and contributing to her pop- 
ulation. 

The first settlement of a permanent character made in the township is said 
to have been effected by a Mrs. Swanson, who came to the country with her 
family and entered upon the possession of a farm in Section 10 or 11. She was 
a widow, but was aided in the care of her property by a family of children, who 
accompanied their parent to Illinois. 

Settlers had made their appearance prior to the advent of " Widow Swan- 
son," including S. E. M. Carnefix, Alexander McKinn, Arthur Dawson, and 
one or two others, but these had remained temporarily in transit to the mines, 
and it was not until the "widow" became a fixture that they returned to stay. 
To these pioneers, with Thomas Flynn, E. Mullarkey, Henry Hulse and M. 
Welsh, William and Leonard Lee, Nathan Blackamore and Aaron Baker, 
is due the honor of first breaking ground in the township, but they had hardly 
been located when the precedent they established was emulated, and in the 
year following arrivals were more numerous. Among these were Nathan 
Salsbury, who settled in Section 31, and with him Dr. F. S. Payne, D. W. 
C. Mallory, John Hoag, S. and T. Seeley, who settled near Rock City, Peter 
Rowe, etc. 

The Mullarkeys, with Thomas Foley and one or two others, who came during 
the previous year, opened farms about two miles south of the present town 
of Davis, where they established a settlement, that has long been known as " Irish 
Grove," from the large number of Celts who followed in the wake of those 
who came in 1836. The following year, Pat Giblin, Miles O'Brien, a man 
named Corcoran, who subsequently removed to Rockford, were included in the 
roster of inhabitants gathered at Irish Grove. The same year, Thomas J. Tur- 
ner put up a grist-mill in Section 34, but sold it to Nelson Salsbury, who in 
turn disposed of it to James Epley. The first birth in the township is alleged 
to have occurred this year, it being a son to Albert Flower, at the saw-mill on 
Rock Run. 

During 1838, H. G. Davis, with his family, came to the township, and 
purchased the saw-mill put up in Section 27 by Stackhouse, Carrier & Flower. 
Mr. Davis paid $4,000 therefor and completed the dam that summer. The only 
Catholic Church in the township was built this season, by Thomas Flynn, E. 
Mullarkey, M. Welsh and a priest believed to have been Father Piltitot, who 
walked from Galena to disseminate the Gospel among the settlers, and assisted 
in raising the frame hewed out by Calvin Cloton, alias Amos Isbel. This old 
church had but two pews for many years, and was kept in service until 1862, 
when the present edifice was completed. "Pony" Fletcher and Narcisse 
Swanson were married in the fall of 1838, it is said, and claimed to be the first 
marriage in the township. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 487 

In 1839, numerous accessions were made, and improvements kept pace 
with the influx of inhabitants. Among those who settled in Rock Run Town- 
ship during 1839, were Conrad Epley, Edward Pratt, who subsequently 
removed to Freeport, M. Flower, Edward Smith, settling on Section 13; Uriah 
Boyden, on Section 30 ; Thomas Fox, who removed to Wisconsin ; Thomas 
Bree, Martin Mullen, Patrick Flynn, Michael Flynn, Patrick Flynn (second), 
Thomas Hawley and William Marlowe, who identified themselves with the set- 
tlement at Irish Grove, and some others whose names cannot be recalled. 

In the early part of that year, Josiah Blackamore and Leonard Lee built the 
present Epleyana mills, which then had but one run of stone, and were afterward 
sold to Conrad Epley. A party of Norwegians settled at the mill on Rock Run 
in October, 1839, being the first settlement made by this nationality in the 
United States. The delegation included C. Stabeck, Ole Anderson, Canute 
Canuteson, who opened the first blacksmith-shop in the township; Civert Oleson 
and Ole Civertson, the latter opening the first wagon-shop in the vicinity. There 
was much to encourage the settlers this year, and the country began to bear the 
appearance of being highly cultivated. But times were hard. Those who had 
removed from comparative plenty to the West and were compelled to toil 
with indefatigable energy to triumph over the embargoes which constantly 
intervened between them and comfort. Game was to be had in abund- 
ance, but pork and other luxuries were only to be procured from a dis- 
tance, and at a price ($43 to $50 per barrel) that denied it to the most inde- 
pendent. Snakes, too, were numerous beyond comparison, and fatal as the 
plague, and many an old settler recalls the times when he was obliged to 
pirouette in a lively manner, or drop a sheaf of oats, to avoid being bitten by 
the venomous massasauga. Yet, in spite of these objections, life in the wilder- 
ness was not without its charm, and, whatever complaints found expression, 
did not deter immigration from the East and across the sea, and though clouds 
shone over the pathway of these venturesome pioneers, there were glimpses of 
sunshine to relieve the passing gloom and encourage the coming of that perfect 
day which long since made its welcome advent. 

In 1840, D. A. Baldwin settled in Section 30, and Capt. Knese in Section 
13 the year following. Additions were made that year to the Irish and Nor- 
wegian settlements, and every nationality represented in the new field of labor 
and development had their number increased by fresh arrivals. In 1841, the 
first regular post office in the township was established at the Rock Run Mill, 
and H. G. Davis appointed Postmaster. It remained here until 1848, when it 
was removed to Jamestown — otherwise known as "Grab-all" — near Rock City, 
where it was retained for a number of years, but finally abandoned when Rock 
City and Davis were laid out and dignified with the privileges appertaining to 
towns and villages. A son of John R. Webb died in the fall of this year, the 
first, it is claimed, in the township. 

From 1840 to 1850, the township developed with gratifying rapidity, con- 
sequent upon the increase in population and cultivation of the soil. 

In 1855, the first Presbyterian Church in the township was built, and serv- 
ices were conducted by the Rev. Joseph Dickey. In 1857, Davis was laid 
out, and two years later, the Western Union road was completed through the 
township. During the war, Rock Run contributed her quota to the Union 
army, and with the dawn of peace her citizens once more took up the "burden 
of life" with renewed spirit, have borne the burden imposed, with dignity and 
character, and the homes of comfort that greet the gaze whithersoever the eye 
may be turned in tramping the township highways are the results. 



488 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



DAVIS. 



The most pretentious and populous village in Rock Run Township, though 
of comparatively recent birth, has, since that event grown with each succeeding 
year,and waxed in strength with age, experience and observation. The town is 
pleasantly located on the Milwaukee & St. Paul Railway, in the northeastern 
section of the township, and is as bustling, busy and prosperous a community 
as can be found in the State. It is already celebrated for the industry and 
enterprise of its inhabitants, as a shipping-point for the large crops raised in the 
vicinity; also for the publication of the Davis Review, which has been sustained 
seven years by the patronage it has commanded from the citizens, and many 
other features of excellence, reserved for mention in their appropriate places. 

During the year 1857, at a time when the completion of the Western 
Union road was a conclusion irresistible, the necessity for a station on that 
thoroughfare, at a point in the township convenient and accessible to travelers 
and shippers, was apparent to even those who had taxed their incredulity with 
regard to the enterprise in progress. Ic was at a period when great financial 
embarrassments were beginning to crowd the commercial and speculating spirits 
of the country, and men hesitated before entering upon new ventures, as much by 
reason of their apprehension regarding results, as of a lack of resources. Never- 
theless, it was decided to lay out the town, and in the year mentioned, Samuel 
Davis, John A. Davis, T. J. Turner and Ludwig Stanton donated a total of 160 
acres, for the purpose of a "new dispensation," and caused the same to 
be surveyed and platted, a task accomplished by Edward McMahon, and chris- 
tened the result of their labors, "Davis." The first survey was completed with 
twenty blocks laid off, but in March following (1858) the survey was concluded 
and the plat promulgated. In 1858, the railroad was finished to Davis, 
and in September, 1859, the first passenger train was run through the town to 
Freeport, on the occasion of the State fair, which was holden in that year at 
the latter city. 

When the village was first conceived in the minds of those who were instru- 
mental in its production and subsequent growth and development, its present 
site was a territory embracing cultivated farms, occupied severally by D. 
A. Baldwin and others who resided on the premises, and whose respective 
homes made up the complement of improvements to be observed at that 
time. Immediately on the completion of arrangements to lay out a village, 
these farm appurtenances were removed, and the farms themselves divided and 
subdivided into squares and lots, with streets of generous dimensions, and 
named for the old settlers throughout the township, such as Stanton, Turner, 
Carnefix, Blackamorei Lee, etc. But lots sold slowly. The panic of 1857, and 
effects incident thereto, prevented ready sale of property, and disappointment 
was substituted for the feelings of encouragement the founding of the village 
produced. A few were sold, however, as the years progressed, at prices rang- 
ing from $40 to $125, and improvements were projected and carried on in spite 
of the hard times and unpromising outlook. Houses were built, streets rendered 
passable, sidewalks laid, trees planted, and other efforts made which added to 
the attractions of the place. 

In 1858, Samuel J. Davis erected the first store in the village. It was 
located at the corner of Stanton and Salsbury streets, and still stands on the 
spot of its origin. In the summer of 1859, the Evangelical Church was put up 
and was quickly followed by the erection of other church edifices. The stone 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 489 

schoolhouse was completed in 1858, and the first brick house in the growing 
town was made ready for occupation in 1866. Ernest Wendt was the enter- 
prising citizen who made the investment. It is now occupied by John Butler. 

From 1857 to 1863, there were but comparatively few additions to the 
population. After that period of comparative inaction had passed, there was a 
marked improvement in the quota of arrivals, and steady growth was visible. 
In the latter year, the frame addition to the schoolhouse was finished, and, 
during the decade ending with 1869, residences, stores and other marks of prog- 
ress were increased and sustained by the inhabitants. 

On Thursday, May 1, 1873, an election was held to determine the ques- 
tion of incorporating the town under the provisions of the general law for the 
incorporation of villages, adopted April 10, 1872. The polls were located at 
the Pennsylvania House ; S. J. Davis, Peter McHoes and John Gift acted as 
Judges, and thirty-three votes were deposited in the affirmative, to thirty-one 
votes against the proposed organization. A meeting was convened on May 5, 
following, at which the votes were canvassed, with the result cited, and there- 
after Davis was published throughout the county with its legal prefix of village. 

The following is the roster of officers who have served since that date : 

1873 — E. A. Benton, President ; E. Clark, M. Meinzer, Thomas Crone- 
miller and M. W. Kurtz, Associates. 

1874— John Gift, President; E. A. Benton, T. Cronemiller, M. W. 
Kurtz, T. Hayes and George Zimmerman, Associates. 

1875 — John Gift, President ; T. Cronemiller, E. Clark, A. Inman, P. 
Orth and M. W. Kurtz, Associates. 

1876 — A. B. Cross, President; W. Potter, Joseph Gibbons, B. Moorberg, 
John F. Fink and Henry Deimer, Associates. 

1877 — Peter McHoes, President; Joseph Gibbons, John Butler, W. Pot- 
ter, Jacob Orth and E. Long, Associates. 

1878 — John Gift, President; J. Bellman, S. J. Haynes, Levi Epley, M. 
W. Kurtz and John Butler, Associates. 

1879— John Gift, President; S. J. Haynes, M. W. Kurtz, W. Z. Tunks, 
John Butler and John Barloga, Associates. 

1880 — Elijah Clark, President ; John Butler, Jacob Orth, and the Presi- 
dent were qualified to serve one year ; John Long, M. W. Kurtz and Adam 
Rhenigans, to serve two years. 

Meetings are convened monthly in a stone building on Stanton street, 
erected in 1879 for a council hall and calaboose. , 

Village Clerk— -M. W. Kurtz, 1873; John F. Fink, 1874; Henry Reese, 
1875 and 1876; M. W. Kurtz, 1877; J. Potter, 1878 and 1879; E. T. Hinds, 
1880. 

Village Treasurer— No record for 1873; T. Cronemiller, 1874 and 1875; 
W. Potter, 1876 and 1877 ; M. W. Kurtz, 1878 and 1879 ; W. Potter, 1880. 

Police Magistrate — John B. Smith, elected in 1876, to serve four years. 

Schools. — Previous to the laying out of the town, pupils residing in the 
section wherein Davis is located, attended school at Epleyana, two miles north- 
west of the village. In 1858, a separate district was made in the town site, 
and a stone schoolhouse erected on the hill in the southwest quarter of the 
town. The building cost $1,200, and supplied the wants of the residents until 
1863. By this time, the number of attendance had increased materially, neces- 
sitating the building of an addition to the original edifice, which was finished 
that year. It is of frame, two stories high, 20x30, costing about $2,000, and 
furnishes abundant accommodations for the present roster of pupils. 



490 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

The departments consist of first and second primary, grammar and high 
schools, employing four teachers and affording the means of education to an 
average daily attendance of 150 pupils. 

The schools are under the supervision of a Board of Directors, composed of 
M. W. Kurtz, President ; Joseph Brinker, Nicholas Heinen and Thomas 
Cronemiller, and requiring an annual outlay of $1,500 for their maintenance 
and support. 

The Davis Review — The only paper in the township, was established in 
May, 1873, by K. T. & K. C. Stabeck, when it was known as The Budget, a 
quarto sheet, published in Freeport also. The Messrs. Stabeck continued in 
charge of the paper until September, 1878, when they removed to Freeport, 
abandoning the field in Davis to S. W. Tallman, who purchased the latter office 
for $600, changed the make-up to a seven-column folio, the politics from Inde- 
pendent to Republican, and substituted Review for Budget. Since the pur- 
chase, Mr. Tallman has been conduc ting the enterprise single-handed, and his 
paper now enjoys a weekly circulation of 350 copies in the townships of Rock 
Run, Rock Grove and Dakota, of Stephenson County, also in Durand, Peca- 
tonica and other townships, of Winnebago County. 

The paper is issued on Fridays, and the establishment is valued at $800. 

Lutheran Church. — The Lutheran society was organized in 1870, through 
the labors of the Rev. William Schock, of Forreston, with eighteen members. 
Joseph Keller was Elder, Levi Ungst, Deacon, and services were held in the 
Methodist Church. 

In the spring of 1872, the congregation decided to erect an edifice for its 
own benefit and occupation, and an effort was made to raise the funds necessary 
for that purpose. Through the untiring energy and industry of Joseph Keller, 
Aaron Gold and others, a fund was collected the same season, and the church 
on Turner street completed and dedicated. It is of frame, 34x50, handsomely 
finished, surmounted by a steeple 75 feet high, and cost, when ready for service, 
a total of $3,100. The auditorium affords a seating capacity for 300 wor- 
shipers. 

The following pastors have officiated: The Revs. Charles Young, Richard 
Lazarus, William Seidel and J. A. Bartler, the present incumbent. 

Davis Evangelical Association — Was organized in 1857, with the following 
members : Thomas Bond and family, Jacob Bond and family, Jacob Weaver, 
Michael Meinzer, William Kramer and T. Jenuine and families, and Mr. Abber- 
sted. At first services were conducted in private residences and the school- 
house, continuing in these resorts until 1862, when the present church was 
completed at an expense of $2,500, being of frame, finished with reference to 
convenience and solidity rather than ornament or elaborateness. 

The diocese is included in what is known as Davis Circuit, which includes 
Rock City and other points, having a total of 236 members, 115 of whom are 
communicants of the church in Davis Village. 

The value of the village church property, which embraces a parsonage, is 
quoted at $3,500, and the following ministers have served since the circuit was 
established : The Revs. George Fleisher, John Dengel, Jacob Schafle, Samuel 
Dickover, W. Strasburger, A. Niebul, H. Rohland, William Huelster, Henry 
Bucks. L. B. Tobias, S. A. Tobias and J. G. Kleinknecht, the present incum- 
bent. 

The association also have a church at Rock Run, established about 1850. 

Davis Methodist Episcopal Church — Was organized in June, 1859, under 
the auspices of the Rev. James McLane, with twelve charter members. Until 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 491 

1862, services were held in the schoolhouse, when the use of the Evangelical 
Chapel was obtainad and occupied four years. 

In 1866, the present edifice, costing $1,800, was erected, and has since 
been occupied by the congregation. 

With the exception of one year, the church formed a part of the Durand 
charge, and services were had only Sunday afternoons. In the fall of 1878, 
however, it became an independent charge, with the Rev. F. W. Nazarene as 
Pastor. Since then, the church has enjoyed a steady growth, and is quite pros- 
perous. Its membership numbers about eighty, embracing a large proportion 
of the English-speaking element of the community. During the summer of 
1880, extensive repairs were made on the church, which is now one of the 
neatest and most commodious in the district. 

Since its foundation the -following Pastors have officiated in charge of the 
congregation : The Revs. James McLane, C. C. Best, L. Holt, H. N. Rey- 
nolds, Thomas Cochran, M. G. Sheldon, Mr. Taylor, L. Campbell, T. L. Hall- 
owell, W. H. Orlap, P. C. Stere, T. H. Hazeltine and the present minister. 

Davis Manufacturing Company — Was incorporated in 1876, with a capital 
stock of $10,000, and the following official board: Lemuel Goodrich, Presi- 
dent, and A. J. Morris, Secretary ; Lemuel Goodrich, A. J. Morris, Jacob 
Orth, E. A. Benton, G. W. Becker, A. Inman and M. W. Kurtz, Board of 
Directors. The objects of the association were the building and conducting a 
flouring-mill, and in the summer of 1876, the mill on Blackamore street, opposite 
the Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad track, was completed, supplied with four run 
of stone, propelled by steam power, and taken possession of by Ball & Green, 
under a lease executed by the company. The sum of $16,000 was paid for 
building the mill, being largely in excess of the capital stock, which was secured 
by a trust deed of the property to the stockholders. This was foreclosed in 
1878, and sold to the gentlemen composing the original board of officers and 
directors, who now own the property. It has been operated at intervals by the 
company — Aaron Stoll and Gift & Eichelberger, until May, 1880, when it was 
closed up. 

The capacity of the mill is stated at 450 bushels of wheat per day, in 
addition to a large quantity of ground feed. The organization is still in 
existence but not active. 

Evening Star Lodge, No. 4.1 4-, A., F. $- A. M. — Was organized under 
'dispensation of the Grand Lodge of Illinois March 11, 1864, and received its 
charter October 5 of the same year, with the following officers : James Zuver, 
W. M. ; George Osterhaus, S. W. ; Edward R. Lord, J. W. ; Dr. J. R. Ham- 
mill, Secretary ; Charles Wright, Treasurer. 

The lodge prospered, increasing its roster of membership, the influence 
exerted by the members and resources of the craft. Recently, the lodge 
erected a handsome hall on Stanton street, which was completed, furnished and 
dedicated the same year at an expense of about $3,000. 

The lodge now contains forty-two members, with the following officers : 
John Weber, W. M. ; D. G. Lashell, S. W. ; C. M. Gift, J. W. ; G. W. Becker, 
Treasurer ; T. Ihlert, S. D. ; T. Nulks, J. D. ; C. A. Carnefix, Secretary ; I. 
J. Haynes, Chaplain, and W. T. Schlamp, Tiler. 

Meetings are held on the first and third Fridays of the month. 

Davis Lodge, No. 376 I. 0. O. F. — Was organized on the 19th of Sep- 
tember with the following members : Martin H. Davis, Isaac Denner, John 
Nagle, Thomas Hays, Alvin Gestenberger and J. W. Caldwell. Of these, 
John Nagle was N. G., Martin H. Davis, V. G., and Thomas Hays, Treasurer. 



492 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

The present officers are Jacob Swartz, N. G. ; W. S. Caum, V. G. ; 
Henry Warner, Treasurer; J. M. Caldwell, Secretary; J. W. Caldwell, 
Warden ; and J. L. Blackamore, Conductor. 

The present membership is about twenty-five, and meetings are convened 
weekly. 

The town of Davis now has twelve stores of dealers in dry goods, groce- 
ries, drugs, and other commodities ; two bladksmith-shops, in one of which a 
superior quality of plow is made ; three churches, one paper, one mill, and other 
evidences of prosperity, together with a population of about seven hundred, to 
commend it to the patronage and confidence of the world at large. 

ROCK CITY. 

On the 10th of January, 1859, George Raymer executed a contract with 
T. S. Wilcoxon and William Peterson for the transfer of the southwest corner 
of the northeast quarter of Section 29, containing 50 acres for town purposes, 
which was the first move made toward founding Rock City. During the same year, 
the town was surveyed and platted, 180 lots being laid out, fronting on Jackson, 
Washington, Main, Congress, Clay, Center and Market streets and Jefferson 
avenue, which commanded prices ranging from $10 to $50 each, when the town 
began to build up, immediately upon the completion of the railroad. In the 
fall of 1859, Samuel Hutchison and S. E. M. Carnefix, donated an addition to 
the south part of the town, which, however, was vacated in 1860, and 
remained unimproved. David Wilcoxon, John Graham and Perry Duncan were 
the store-keepers, and the station was located and built during the same year. 

The educational facilities, limited to a school on Carnefix farm at an early 
day, were increased and improved after the town was laid out, and are to-day 
inferior to none in the county. 

Two churches afford spiritual pabulum to the citizens, and in this respect 
Rock City is equally fortunate as other township villages already mentioned. 
To these advantages is added that of accessibility for shipping purposes to 
farmers and speculators, being in the center of the township, with good roads 
from all portions of the surrounding country leading to the depot, and the town is 
rapidly assuming a prominence and value in this respect, that will result in 
attracting to its population, enterprise and wealth in the near future. 

Its roster of material interest is made up of two stores, two churches, and 
a schoolhouse, and these, together with the fact that the town is but a short 
distance removed from Freeport, induce the conclusion that at some day, not far 
distant, it may be made the resident portion of that thriving city. 

Schools. — As already stated, a school was maintained previous to the lay- 
ing out of the city on the Carnefix farm ; subsequent to that event a stone school- 
house was put up west of the village and taught by a master of the art named 
Searles. 

This edifice answered public expectation and demands until the present 
quarters were erected in 1878, when they were substituted, and promise to sup- 
ply the needs for which they were built until Rock City shall become a city in 
fact as also in name. 

Two teachers are employed ; the average daily attendance is seventy-five 
pupils, and the annual expenses about $800. 

Evangelical Church of Rock City — Was organized in 1868, with a limited 
membership, which has been measurably increased during the past ten years. 

In 1869, the present church edifice was commenced, completed and dedi- 
cated under the pastorship of the Rev. H. Rohland. It cost $2,200, is in a 



-^ s 




j^ : j£#% I 



-It m 




■'T-^V/^f 



(DECEASED) 

R ID OTT. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 495 

good state of repair and an ornament to the town. Rock City being in the 
Davis Circuit, the same pastors who officiate at that point do likewise for com- 
municants residing at the former place. 

Methodist Church. — The organization of this church is due to the efforts of 
a small body of Christians who connected themselves with the Davis Circuit in 
the fall of 1878. Services were held in the Evangelical Chapel and the school- 
house until the summer of 1879, when the church building was completed 
and taken possession of. Its cost, including the bell and furniture, was $1,500; 
it has at present about twenty- five members, with the Rev. F. W. Nazarene as 
Pastor. 

DAKOTA TOWNSHIP. 

The territory comprising the present township of Dakota consists of 
11,378 acres, originally contained in Buckeye Township. When the latter was 
set apart in 1850, the polling place for voters residing in the southeastern por- 
tion of Buckeye was located at the Red Schoolhouse, near the present town 
of Buena Vista. The distance thereto was a source of infinite inconvenience 
and vexation of spirit to those deeming it an inestimable privilege to exercise 
the privileges of the elective franchise, and for many years was bridged with 
complainings and irregularity by the American citizens who subsequently became 
pioneer settlers in Dakota. These complainings and vexations of spirit, born 
of the inconvenience cited, finally culminated in efforts to create a new town- 
ship, which were crowned with success through the labors of Silas Yount, R. 
Baird, B. Dornblazer and others, during the month of September, 1860. 

Settlements had been made in that portion of Buckeye Township as early 
as 1836, many of which have already been mentioned in this work, and need 
not be recapitulated. There were some, however, who, during that and sub- 
sequent years, their names having been reserved for that purpose, are herein 
quoted. They include, among others, the family of Benson McElheney, who 
settled near Hickory Grove ; Henry Bordner, Jacob Bordner, John Brown, 
Robin Mcgee, James McKee, Samuel Templeton, John Price, Peter Fair, 
Daniel Zimmerman, Robert Pierce et al., a portion of whom settled on Cedar 
Creek, the remainder distributing themselves through various portions of the 
original township. 

Dakota is deservedly regarded as one of the finest farming sections in the 
county. Though of limited dimensions, nearly every foot of soil, which in point 
of quality is unsurpassed, is under cultivation. That the natural facilities for 
acquiring wealth through the farm are more than generous, is to be found in the 
fact that the husbandmen residents therein are, as a rule, in independent circum- 
stances. The amount of timber is limited to one grove of measured dimensions, 
the balance of the township being rolling prairie. Cedar Creek courses the 
township from north to south, and the Milwaukee & St. Paul Railway from east 
to west, affording water-power and means of communication possessed by few 
townships in the county, and sources of profit to the inhabitants. Dakota, 
though one of the smallest of Stephenson County's seventeen townships, is also 
one of the more prosperous and attractive, commending its resources and produ- 
cing results to the cultivator and shipper as substantial as they are comparatively 
unlimited, and certainly remunerative. 

DAKOTA VILLAGE. 

In 1857, the Western Union Railroad Company completed surveying 
the line of its proposed route, and engaged upon its construction. At 

E 



496 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY, 

that time, the site of Dakota was owned by Robinson Baird and Ludwig Stan- 
ton. The former sold his claim to Thomas J. Turner, who, in turn, sold to S. J. 
Davis, and to him, in conjunction with Ludwig Stanton, is due the honor of the 
surveying and platting of the present prosperous village. Robinson Baird, Chas. 
Butterfield and a man named Wohlford, owned houses located at different points 
on the one hundred acres which subsequently became the town, and these are said 
to have been the only improvements visible at this time. Soon after, an appli- 
cation was made to the Department to locate a post office in the village. This 
was granted, and the present name adopted by the Postmaster General, at the 
suggestion of Robinson Baird and Benjamin Dornblazer. The improvements 
concluded during the earlier years of Dakota's existence were scarcely of a 
character to astonish the outside world, or enrich the operator, and the first 
substantial house erected in the town was due to the enterprise and ambition of 
Benjamin Dornblazer. In the year 1859, that gentleman and John Brown, 
appreciating the future importance of the place for shipping purposes, put up 
a warehouse adjoining the track of the road then laid, and in the fall of the 
same year a second warehouse was moved into the city, like the Trojan horse, 
ready complete, and located to the rear of that subsequently raised by Fisher 
& Schmeltzer. 

In 1860, the town contained seven dwellings, occupied severally by Ben- 
jamin Dornblazer, Samuel Lapp, D. W. C. Holsople, Abner Hall, Robinson 
Baird, Daniel Keck and " Auntie " Dawson. Holsople carried on a blacksmith- 
shop, Robert Neil a cabinet-shop, and Daniel Keck conducted the village store. 

In that year, S. H. Fisher and S. D. Schmeltzer erected a warehouse, the 
third to be raised since the town was laid out, but three years previous; the 
Methodist Church also went up, and improvements began to be generally made. 
These included the dwelling now occupied as a residence by John Brown, which 
was completed in 1860, and used as a hotel. George Muffley built a residence, 
as also did a Mrs. Ingraham ; Charles Muffley completed a carpenter-shop and 
tap-room, emigrating from some distant point in a house of limited dimensions 
and comforts, protected from the elements by a car-roof, and was persuaded to 
cast anchor in the growing village and open for business. This latter failed 
to materialize with gratifying profit to the Ganymede, who enlisted in the 
army, and is reported as having been killed in one of the engagements in the 
Southwest. 

The war coming on, improvements were suspended, and nothing of impor- 
tance was accomplished. This uninteresting condition was prolonged until 
1864, in which year a number of dwellings were added to the list of domiciles. 
In 1866, more of the same kind were erected, and between that year and 1870, 
the main part of the town was built up. In 1869, the town was incorporated as 
a village, and business increased in a proportionate ratio. This gratifying pros- 
perity continued until 1873, when the panic palsied trade, improvements, and 
other features of advancement which had previously manifested a healthy 
growth. This calamity affected Dakota visibly and disastrously ; there was 
neither business nor money; the crops, though abundant, could not be profitably 
marketed, and these adverse circumstances produced their natural results, as 
already suggested. After five years of embarrassments and financial strin- 
gency, times became more easy, money was to be had, crops to be marketed, 
and the resources of the surrounding country, in process of a more generous- 
development, to enrich the town. 

The past two years have been years of prosperity tp Dakota; the year 
1880, a gratifying improvement over 1879, with a promise for the future cor- 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 497 

respondingly encouraging. In 1879, $169,315 was paid out in the village for 
grain, hogs and cattle. Five hundred and ninety-four car loads of grain and 
125 car loads of cattle and hogs were shipped therefrom, and improvements of 
value and beauty added to those previously enumerated. The village has a 
population of over 200, is an important station on the road, the center of a rich 
agricultural country, and possessing all the requirements for a successful out- 
come. 

The village was incorporated by a special act of the Legislature, approved 
during the session of 1869, and the first election under the provisions thereof 
held on Monday, April 5, of the same year, at which Silas Yount, W. R. Auman, 
J. D. Bennehoff acted as Judges ; F. B. Walker and A. T. Milliken, Clerks. 

The act of incorporation was adopted by a vote of twenty-four to twelve, 
and the following officers have served at intervals since that date: 

1869 — Peter Yoder, President; John Brown, VV. R. Auman, George Lam- 
bert and R. M. Milliken, Associates. 

1870 — The board remained as in 1869, except that W. Askey and E. H. 
Dressier were elected in place of George Lambert and R. M. Milliken. 

1871 — W. R. Auman, President; W. Askey, J. Fury, John Brown and 
J. D. Schmeltzer. 

1872 — G. Walker, President; J. D. Schmeltzer, who resigned and was 
succeeded by D. Lides, E. Yount, A. Oaks and S. Zimmerman who was suc- 
ceeded by D. Keck, Zimmerman having resigned. 

1873— J. Brown, President; E. W. Yount, D. B. Bobb, Ezra Durling and 
Isaac Aldendorfer. 

1874— George Walker, President; D. B. Bobb, John Brown, W. R. Au- 
man and Daniel Seidles, Sr. 

1875 — Michael ^tack, President; D. B. Bobb, W. R. Auman, Samuel 
Schmidt and Edwin W. Yount. 

1876— Michael Stack, President; R. M. Telfer, N. B. Perry, E. W. 
Yount and D. M. Ruth. 

1877 — W. R. Auman, President; S. P. Rote, John Brown, M. Stack and 
R. M. Telfer. 

1878— John Brown, President; W. R. Auman, R. M. Telfer, M. Stack 
and T. B. Schmeltzer. 

1879— D. B. Bobb, President; S. P. Rote, R. M. Telfer, T. B. Schmelt- 
zer and A. M. Artley. 

1880— M. Slack, President; D. Keck, W. R. Auman, A. M. Artley and 
Joseph Unangst. 

Village Treasurer. — George Lambert, 1869; W. Askey, 1870-71; S. 
Zimmerman, 1872; E. W. Yount, 1873; W. R. Auman, 1874-75; E. W. 
Yount, 1876; S. P. Rote, 1877; R. M. Telfer, 1878; S. P. Rote, 1879; 
Joseph Unangst, 1880. 

Village Clerk.— -R. M. Milliken, 1869; E. H. Dressier, 1870; J. D. 
Schmeltzer, 1871 ; A. Oaks, 1872; D. B. Bobb, 1873-75; R. M. Telfer, 1876 
-77; T. B. Schmeltzer, 1878-79; W. R. Auman, 1880. 

Rock Run Presbyterian Church. — The congregation was organized in 
1855, and one year later the church edifice in Section 30, Rock Run Township, 
erected and occupied until the village of Dakota was built up, when the 
organization was changed to that point where, in 1870, the church now occu- 
pied was built, the old edifice in Section 30 being appropriated by the Reformed 
Presbyterians, of which the Rev. Dr. Harris is the Pastor. 



498 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

The church at Dakota is of frame, 35x55, with a steeple eighty feet high, 
supplied with an organ, and was built at an expense of $3,000. It will afford 
a seating capacity for 300 worshipers. 

The congregation consists of sixty members, and the following ministers 
have served : The Revs. John M. Linn, L. H. Mitchell and J. C. Irwin. 
Services are held every other Sabbath. 

Methodist Church — Was organized soon after the village was laid out, 
under the auspices of the Rev. W. D. Atchison. In the summer of 1860, the 
congregation erected a commodious and handsome house of worship in the vil- 
lage^ of Dakota, at a cost of $2,000. In 1878, the steeple was completed, and 
other improvements added. It is of frame, 49x36, with a capacity for 300, 
and in every respect appropriate to the uses for which it was designed. 

The present congregation numbers 100 members, and the value of church 
property, including a parsonage, represents about $4,000. The following is a 
list of ministers who have officiated : The Revs. W. D. Atchison, Barton H. 
Cartwright, John O. Foster, Aaron Cross, James M. Condee, T. H. Hasel- 
tine and George H. Wells, the present incumbent. 

Evangelical Lutheran Church. — Sometime during the year 1857, the 
Rev. Ephraim Miller began to preach in the schoolhouse at Dakota, and, on 
the 3d day of September, 1859, the following persons held a meeting and 
organized the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Dakota : Ephraim and Sarah 
Stotler, Samuel and Mary Lapp, Jacob and Helena Maurer, John and Catha- 
rine Wirth, James Ling and George Frantz. The Rev. Ephraim Miller was 
elected Pastor, Ephraim Stotler, Elder, and James Ling, Deacon. 

In the fall of 1867, steps were taken to build a house of worship, which 
was completed and dedicated December 5, 1868, at a cost of $2,626.71, the same 
being paid when the edifice was delivered to the church authorities. At the date 
of its dedication, money was subscribed for the purchase of a bell, which was 
accordingly procured, the first bell introduced into the township. 

The present congregation is composed of a large number of worshipers, and 
the value of the church property is quoted at about $2,500. 

The ministers who have served are the Revs. Ephraim Miller. A. A. 
Trimper, Solomon Ritz, Charles Anderson, Samuel Cook, John Slott, Charles 
Young, R. Lazarus, S. C. Seidel and J. A. Beidler, the present Pastor. 

Schools. — The system of education in force elsewhere throughout the 
county is employed at Dakota. The present edifice was begun in 1855, and 
completed, with an addition costing $500, in 1867. 

There are two departments, primary and grammar, requiring the services 
of two teachers, and furnishing the means of education to an average daily 
attendance of 125 pupils. The school is under the control of a Board of 
Directors, consisting of E. M. Shullenburger, J. Clingman and D. M. Hols- 
opple, and require an annual appropriation of $1,000 for their support. 

Dakota Lodge, No. 566, L. O. O. F. — Was instituted by Deputy Grand 
Master W. J. Fink on the 22d of February, 1875, with eight charter members, 
and the following officers : E. Durling, N. G. ; J. W. Gladfelter, V. G. ; E. 
Yount, Treasurer, and J. D. Schmeltzer, Secretary. 

The lodge attained a high degree of prosperity, but, upon the morning of 
October 27, 1877, the building to which the lodge had removed in 1876 from 
Keek's building, was totally destroyed by fire, the craft losing everything 
except its lodge books, and suffering, in addition to the inconvenience occasioned 
by the fire itself, a pecuniary damage of $380. Rooms were at once fitted up 
in Artley's building, and possession taken thereof December 22, 1877, since 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 499 

when prosperity has prevailed against the elements. The present membership 
is forty-eight, with the following officers: W. H. Butterfield, N. G. ; E. Yount, 
V. G. ; T. B. & J. J). Schmeltzer, Secretaries ; J. R. Young, Treasurer. 



SILVER CREEK TOWNSHIP, 

in the southern tier of townships in the county, contains 22,069 acres of 
land, all of which is improved, being mostly of rolling prairie. The water 
facilities are generally good, the Pecatonica River and Yellow Creek flowing 
through the northern portion, with creeks and rivulets of less prominence and 
value coursing its remaining sections at different points. The Illinois Central 
passes through the township from north to south, the Western Union cutting 
across its northwestern corner. 

The township is well supplied with schools and church buildings, but has 
no town within its limits, Freeport being the market for its citizens. An addi- 
tion to Baileyville, a town in Ogle County abutting on Silver Creek Township, 
was once made with a view to the establishing of a village, but improvements were 
neither rapid nor extensive, and the Ogle County portion of the town finally 
neutralized the Silver Creek undertaking. 

The first permanent settlement made in the present township was effected 
by Thomas Craine, who visited the county in August, 1835, and entered a 
quarter section of land in the southwest quarter of the township, where he 
built a cabin and housed his family, consisting of a wife and three chil- 
dren. In the fall of the same year, Augustus Bonner established himself in 
Section 34, near the mouth of the Yellow Creek, but was not a settler. He 
remained there until 1836, building a cabin during the winter, when he resigned 
his claim to its legitimate owner, Thomas Covel, and went West. 

In the spring of 1836, Charles Walker, F. D. Bulkley and Hammond 
were enrolled among the pioneers, and in the fall Sidney Stebbins, Joel Baker, 
Loran Snow and the " Widow " Brown. Walker was employed by Mr. Craine 
to teach his children the limited rudiments of education, in those days accessi- 
ble to purchase, paying therefor $75 a quarter. The tutor remained there for 
several months, familiarizing himself in the mean time, as the sequel proved, 
with the intricate knowledge of horse stealing, which he subsequently practiced 
until 1838, when he was captured and condemned to the penitentiary at Alton, 
whither he was taken. Some land was "broke up" in 1836, and a few 
improvements in the way of building completed. 

The following year, though emigration to the State and county was more 
liberal than during the years preceding, Silver Creek failed to gain the 
quota its fertile soil and other attractions deserved. The settlers who had 
already put in an appearance entered claims in the eastern part of the township, 
the western portion being, as yet, uninhabited. This continued for many years, 
and it was not until about 1843, that lands in the latter sections were taken 
up, the early settlers therein being Dr. Michner, Thomas and Adam Nelson, 
Christian Bennett and son, John Flynn and others. But, to return to earlier 
dates : Seth Scott settled in the township in 1837, at a point east of Crane's 
Grove; Hiram Hill, also, on Yellow Creek ; Maj. John Howe on the west side 
of the Grove, Maj. Howe soon after removing to Freeport; I. Forbes on the 
State road, on the extreme eastern part of Silver Creek. John Milburn, a man 
named Reed, employed by Thomas Craine, and some few others were included 
on the bills of mortality this year, which also furnished the first deaths in the 



500 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

township — those of Thomas Milburn and Reed, who were drowned while attempt- 
ing to cross the Pecatonica River. 

In the spring of 1838, John Walsh came in, as also did John and Thomas 
Warren, the latter settling northeast of the Grove. Isaac Scott, Samuel Lieb- 
shitz, Christian Strockey, with his sons Christian, Jr., and Frederick, Chauncey 
Stebbins and others, all making claims in the eastern side of the township, the 
new-comers being ignorant of or ignoring the fertile prairies to the west. In 
1839, a large number of German emigrants made their advent and began the 
accretion of that wealth and influence now visible as the result of labor and 
thriftiness for which this nationality is known. 

Among those who became residents of the township in 1839, were Jacob 
Hoebel, A. Gund, Valentine Stoskopf, Jacob Shoup, Jacob Bartell, D. E. and 
'• Jock " Pattee, with their families and others, including a man named 
Judkins with his associates, who were added to the colony. Shortly after 
the Pattees came, Mrs. " Jock " Pattee suicided by hanging, the tragedy 
occurring on Gallows Hill, in the eastern part of the township. 

The first birth, an important event in the history of every township, was 
that of Jacob Thompson, a son of William and Lucinda Thompson, who came 
to the surface in the summer of 1838. The first marriage is recorded as having 
been solemnized two years later, February 11, 1811, Frederick Baker and Miss 
A. Craine being the contracting parties. The ceremony was performed at the res- 
idence of Thomas Craine, father of the bride, Squire Fowler officiating. The 
attendance included a large proportion of settlers in the vicinity, and, after the 
twain were pronounced one, the guests participated in the festivities of the time, 
chief of which was dancing, Daniel Wooton, half-brother to Mrs. Baker, fur- 
nishing the music and calling the sets. Husband and wife still live, residing 
in the city of Freeport, in the enjoyment of a hale old age, surrounded by a 
large family of descendants who cheer the decline of their lives, and realize 
unto them the Biblical injunction to which all dutiful children give heed. 

The township thenceforward began to settle up, and numerous accessions 
having since been made to the roster of its population. The west side of the 
township, which had theretofore failed to receive its just complement of inhab- 
itants, has since become thickly settled, and the great resources latent within 
the territory have been profitably developed. The inhabitants are a prosperous, 
industrious, and proportionately independent class of people, to whom the 
Great West is indebted for the cultivated and progressive type of life to be 
found in that section. 



LORAN TOWNSHIP, 

one of the westerly of the southern tier of townships, contains 18,273 
acres of fertile land under cultivation, and a large section of timber, principally 
on Yellow Creek, which, with Plumb Branch and Lost Creek, waters the town- 
ship and furnishes a fine power for miles, of great convenience to the farming 
community. The timber of the township is located on the north side of Yellow 
Creek, while south of this stream a greater part of the township is open prairie 
and an excellent quality of land. This township was originally of greater 
dimensions than at present, but was shorn of its territorial limits by the action 
of the Board of Supervisors. At the September term of the board, 1859, the 
township was subdivided, and the western portion organized into the township 
of Jefferson. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 501 

No little difficulty was experienced in procuring facts in connection with 
the early settlement of the township ; those who came prior to 1840, having 
long since rendered an account of their stewardship and gone hence, while from 
those who came in 1840, very little information could be obtained. 

The first settlement in the township, however, all agree, was made during 
the year 1836, by William Kirkpatrick, who was subsequently identified with 
the company organized to lay out Freeport as the county seat. He was the 
original white settler in the present limits of Loran Township, establishing 
himself about Mill Grove, in Section 14. Here he erected a saw-mill, but the 
date of this evidence of enterprise is in dispute. Some contend that it did not 
go up until 1838, while others assert that it was in active operation a year 
earlier. This latter assumption is possibly correct, for it is averred in Freeport 
that during that year " houses of frame were erected by the company," of which 
William Kirkpatrick was an important factor, the material for which was fash- 
ioned at the mill of that party, located on Yellow Creek. While he was building 
this mill, it should be observed, Mr. K. had no house wherein to live, and was 
obliged to accept the rather equivocal accommodations to be found in a wagon- 
box inverted and thatched to protect its occupant from the rain. Soon after 
the grist-mill was completed and operated, competing for patronage with Van 
Valzah's mill at Cedarville. Settlers began to come into Loran slowly, and, 
while the majority of those who made their advent into this section continued 
their explorations further west, a limited number entered claims and began to 
prepare farms. 

Among those who came in about this time, according to the memory of 
the proverbial oldest inhabitant now living, was Smith Giddings, John Shoe- 
maker, who opened a farm in Section 19 ; Albert Curry, Sylvester Lang- 
don, who took up a claim on Section 15, and some others, though the num- 
ber of inhabitants could have been counted, it is said, within a circuit of 
twenty-five miles without the possession of an unlimited knowledge of mathe- 
matics. These new settlers had all the difficulties peculiar to new countries to 
contend with, in defiance of which, however, they have left their mark upon 
the history of the times, and created from an almost uninhabited and inaccessi- 
ble wilderness, a domain of cultivation unsurpassed in Stephenson County. 

The precedent established by Kirkpatrick and his succeeding colleagues 
was emulated by the Babb family and others in 1840. This family consisted 
of Samuel, Solomon, Reuben and Isaac Babb; Mathias Ditzler came in the 
same year, but reached his claim in advance of the Babb family, and was fol- 
lowed by his brother Christian Ditzler, who settled here, also, during the year 
mentioned. George House came in about 1841, John Lamb soon after ; War- 
ren and Anson Andrews in 1839 or 1840 ; they erected a mill in Section 3 ; 
Horace Post opened a farm near Andrews' mill ; a man named Slocum, Truman 
Lowell, Moses Grigsby, a man named Pointer, William Barklow and Thomas 
Foster, both of whom settled in Section 17 ; Joseph Rush, in the southwest 
corner of the township ; Samuel Shiveley, west of the mill ; John Apgar, east 
of the mill ; Henry Layer, etc. There were many others who came in, doubt- 
less, between the date of Kirkpatrick's arrival and that of those who settled in 
Loran subsequently, but their names and the date of their arrival, not having 
been preserved, are lost to posterity. 

In 1848, settlers began to come more numerously than before that date. 
The township was generally prairie except Mill Grove and a "thicket" in 
Section 21, and the opportunities for cultivation, thereby increased, were availed 
of quite rapidly. The wheat and corn of the inhabitants were mostly ground at 



502 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

Mount Carroll and Cedarville ; the trading, however, was done at Freeport, which 
was a postal town and contained four stores. The settlers at this time were 
mostly from New York, Pennsylvania and Ohio — sturdy, industrious, thriving 
men, who laid the foundation for the prosperity to be witnessed to-day in all 
sections of the township. 

At the time the Illinois Central Railroad was completed to Freeport, Loran 
Township was behind other townships in the county in its settlement and im- 
provements. But with the completion of this enterprise came a tide of 
emigration which was generously distributed over Loran, adding to its popula- 
tion and developing new sources of wealth. One cause of this alleged failure 
on the part of settlers to remain permanently in Loran was the unhealthy sur- 
roundings ; fever and ague prevailed along the streams, while in the interior the 
inhabitants suffered with fevers of a pronounced and enervating type. As a 
consequence, until these maladies were to some extent dissipated, and their causes 
remedied, settlers were indisposed to venture their health and that of their 
families in this section. In time, though, they became incidents of days long 
gone, and to-day Loran is as entirely free from measures which produced the 
effects cited as any township in the county. 

The first marriage of which any information could be obtained occurred in 
the fall of 1840, between Thomas French and Polly Kirkpatrick, and the wife 
of a man named James is reputed as the first death. But the first birth is 
not of record, as also the first fete, and many other important events, without 
which a history of every settlement is incomplete. Inquiry in these connec- 
tions failed to elicit any testimony bearing on the subject, and to this latter fact 
is due the failure of their mention. 

With regard to the first school taught in the township there is a conflict of 
opinion, one party maintaining it to have been at Kirkpatrick's as early as 

1840, while others insist with much emphasis that it was not established until 

1841, when Reuben Babb, William Kirkpatrick and Anson Andrews as 
Trustees, located a school in Section 2, near Babb's Church, where they 
employed a teacher by the name of Allison to superintend the education of 
their children. 

No village of importance is to be found in Loran. Yellow Creek, in the 
northern portion of the township, contains a post office, blacksmith-shop, mill 
and two or three stores, but, as its importance in the future is contingent upon 
railroad facilities, the improvement contemplated with the advent of such an 
enterprise is reserved until the coming of the iron horse. 

The township is well supplied with schools and churches, the inhabitants 
are an enterprising class, and Loran compares very favorably with other town- 
ships in point of industry, wealth and improvements. 



JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP. 

Comprising the southwest corner of, and one of the smallest townships in, 
the county, is none the less productive and desirable. The country is rolling, 
with prairie and timber admirably intermingled, well watered, and inhabited by 
a population who secure for the estates under their control the highest degree of 
cultivation possible. 

Jefferson was originally a part and parcel of Loran Township, and so 
remained until September, 1859, when, upon the petition of citizens praying 
for an independent organization, the Board of Supervisors so ordered, since 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 503 

when it has been going it alone, attended with a success commensurate with the 
efforts employed in that direction. 

As a part and parcel of Loran Township, the settlers who first became 
identified with that portion of the county are also to be included, without again 
being mentioned in the brief notice of the township under consideration. Yet 
those who settled in that portion of Loran now known as Jefferson should be 
mentioned fully and in detail, because to their efforts belong the honor of 
developing the country in the first instance, as also for procuring for Jefferson 
the capacity to act as an independent sovereign. 

The first settler of record who became a part and parcel of Jefferson 
Township is said to have been Hector C. Haight, who came into the country 
with his wife and family in 1837 ; entered a claim and built a house on the farm 
at present owned by Samuel Hays, about four miles from the village of Loran, 
on the road to Freeport. 

During Haight's residence in the country, Joe Smith, the founder of Mor- 
monism, established himself at Nauvoo, whence he made pilgrimages about the 
country seeking to proselyte unbelievers. On these forays, he met many church- 
going people, and so eloquently expressed the doctrines expounded that he not 
only succeeded in confounding some of the wise men of other sects, but many 
of the followers of Wesley, Calvin, and the thousand and one orthodox class- 
leaders who flourished in those days on the frontier. 

About the same time that Haight settled in Jefferson, a Mr. Pennington 
came in and opened a claim just east of John R. Housel's present farm. Soon 
after, though the emigration to Loran was not for reasons mentioned large, 
quite a number secured claims in that portion which is now Jefferson, and made 
the improvements usual in such cases, a cabin and corn-patch. George Lashell 
located a farm in the hollow where the village of Loran now is, Thompson 
Smith, Henry Aurand, Jacob Gable, now residing in Kent Township, Charles 
Fleckinger, who resided on the hill near Loran, and a few others whose names 
are omitted, because of the fact that the survivors of those days were unable 
to recall them to mind came in also. 

Soon after the railroad to Freeport was built, emigration increased and 
improvements were substituted for those made while the township was in its 
infancy. New houses were built, farms opened, roads laid out and facilities for 
communication with the outside world projected. Mechanics who came with 
this second influx of settlers found constant and remunerative employment ; farm 
hands were in special demand, teachers and ministers of the Gospel were welcomed 
and aided in the establishment of schools and houses of worship. Among those 
of the former profession, who came to aid in developing the young idea, was 
a Mr. Bonneman and George Truckenmiller. A schoolhouse of logs was built 
near Loran Village, and here the sons and daughters of farmers for miles around 
were instructed in the rudiments of education. The Rev. Messrs. Kiefer 
and Chester came about the same time and expounded the Gospel in the barn 
of Samuel Hays. To-day schools and churches are to be seen at all points of 
the compass, whithersoever the eye may turn, prime factors in the building up 
and development of all communities which have the cause of right and justice 
and civilization to contend for. 

The first death to occur in the little colony took place about 1844, when 
the settlers were interested in the welfare of each other, and the sorrows of one 
affected all. A young man named Louis Kleckner, in the employ of Samuel 
Hays, was taken down with a type of the malarial fever prevalent in early days, 
and, notwithstanding the care and attention he received, yielded up the ghost. 



504 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

He was buried in a cemetery in the barrens west of Loran, the second inter- 
ment made in the present village churchyard. Some time previous, a resident 
of Jo Daviess County named Tiffany deceased, and his burial in the cemetery 
mentioned, preceded that of young Kleckner. 

In the fall of 1845, Henry Doherty was married to Catharine Flickinger, 
and this is said to have been the first marriage concluded in the present town- 
ship of Jefferson. It is believed that the Rev. Mr. Kiefer officiated at the 
ceremony, but whether there were any " fixins " or rejoicings upon the occasion, 
the settler who furnished the information is in doubt. Most probably not, 
however, for the days of prosperity were yet unborn, and it required the most 
constant and diligent attention to cultivating the soil as a means of livelihood, 
and weddings were regarded as complete without the attendant concomitants 
deemed indispensable to-day. 

The first birth could not be ascertained, not even from those who usually 
make merry upon occurrences of this character, hence the historian is denied 
the pleasure of perpetuating the name of the distinguished offspring who first 
made his bow before an admiring constituency in Jefferson Township. 

Jefferson contains one village, with a population of about eighty souls. In 
1854, George Lashell, occupying a farm in the hollow, near Jo Daviess County, 
conceived the idea of laying out a town and attracting population by the sale of 
lots at a price within the means of the least ambitious. He accordingly pro- 
cured the services of the County Surveyor and laid off and platted the village of 
Loran. The town originally contained five blocks of twelve lots each, but, 
finding a limited sale for his realty, he subsequently vacated a portion of the 
property, reserving for village purposes only so much as equaled the limited 
demand then made. 

The town occupies but one street (High), contains one store, a blacksmith- 
shop, two churches and a stone schoolhouse. 

The Methodist Church was built in 1875, and cost $1,600. It is 30x40, 
of frame, with a capacity of seating of about 150 worshipers. The congrega- 
tion, which numbers about seventy-five communicants from the surrounding 
country, belongs to the Yellow Creek Conference. Services are held twice a 
month, at which the Rev. J. B. Smith officiates. 

The Evangelical Church is also of frame, 30x44, with an attendance 
similar in point of numbers, and services on every other Sabbath. The Rev. 
Mr. Fair, of Shannon, Carroll County, is the minister at present in charge. 

The schoolhouse, which, as stated, is of stone, is located on the main street 
of the village, employs the services of one teacher and enjoys an average daily 
attendance of about thirty pupils. 

Near the village is a Lutheran Church, in which services are held at inter- 
vals by transient ministers. 

ERIN TOWNSHIP. 

Originally one of the largest townships in the county, Erin is now one of 
the smallest, owing to a division of its territory by order of the Board of Super- 
visors, which assigned its west half to Kent Township, at a meeting convened 
March 17, 1856, reducing its dimensions so as to comprehend but half the usual 
township limits. The division of the township caused intense feeling on the 
part of residents within the original survey, as they were not only deprived of 
the superior wood and water advantages previously enjoyed, but subjected to 
other inconveniences and hardships. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 505 

Notwithstanding this alleged inequity, Erin township is one of the more 
prosperous in the county, inhabited by a class of people notably efficient, in- 
dustrious and enterprising and liberal in every undertaking calculated to pro- 
mote the general welfare. 

The surface of the ground is rolling, and a smaller proportion of prairie 
exists than in other towns. The openings are of an excellent quality of land, 
and peculiarly adapted to the growth of wheat, large quantities of which are 
raised during the year. The timber is not heavy, and the labor of clearing very 
trifling. A large number of springs are to be found in the town, also a limited 
number of stone quarries, furnishing material for building purposes. 

A portion of the town was settled by a colony of Irish farmers at an early 
day, hence the name ; many of the descendants of these pioneers still live in a 
settlement known as kt Dublin," and furnish abundant evidence of the success 
that attends industry and attention to the business of life. 

The first settlers of Erin Township are those who, also identified with 
the settlement of that portion of Erin afterward apportioned to Kent, are men- 
tioned in connection with the history of that township. They include 0. W. 
Kellogg, James Timms, Jesse Willet and others. Among those who settled 
in the section reserved to Erin proper when the division already cited was made, 
and that among the first, were Bartholomew Boyle and Michael Murphey, the 
former on the present site of St. Mary's Catholic Church, and the latter one 
mile distant therefrom. Valorus Thomas is said to have come in 1837, and 
settled on the line between Harlem and Erin. James Fowler John Fiddler, 
John B. Kautfman, Peter Vansickle, George W. Babbitt, Jonas and Palmer 
Pickard, Lewis Grigsby, F. Rosenstiel and others came between that date and 

1840, and settled in the township ; Ebenezer Mullinix and Helm in 1837, 

and located near the line in Harlem ; Reuben Tower came in 1840, as also did 
William Schermerhorn, John Lloyd, Frederick Gossmann and John Ham- 
mond, and many others came about that time and began farming in the terri- 
tory now included in Erin Township; Nathan Ferry, Amos Davis (who settled 
at Scioto Mills in 1837), E. H. Woodbridge and many more came into the 
township at a later - date, and have since been identified with its rise and 
progress. 

In earlier times, before the railroad became part of the township as an 
agency for its success and appreciation in the value of property, both real and 
personal, the experience of settlers elsewhere was duplicated in Erin. Their 
flour was ground at Andrews' mill, on Yellow Creek, etc., and their prod- 
ucts sold and supplies procured at Chicago, Galena and other points accessible 
only after long drives and a constant repetition of annoyances ; and, as was not 
unfrequently the case, the load, hauled to market over roads that to-day would 
be condemned, and through weather that would place an embargo on the 
movements of the least cautious, would be sold for a sum insufficient to meet 
the demands of necessaries for home consumption. When the sales of land by 
the Government were begun, settlers came in more rapidly, and of a character 
that encouraged those already in possession. They were composed of horny- 
handed sons of toil, by whom the forests have been hewn down, the prairies 
broken up and transformed into fertile fields, and the wealth of the soil devel- 
oped and increased, until to-day the West is not only the garden and the gran- 
ary, but the treasury of the nation. When the railroad was surveyed, an addi- 
tional impetus was given to immigration hitherward, greatly augmented when 
this connecting link between the West and East was finally cemented in 
1854. 



506 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

Since that event, the population of Erin Township has only been measured 
by its capacity to afford accommodation for the number who have annually 
endeavored to become citizens within its limits. The acres devoted to farming are 
under the control of husbandmen ripe in knowledge and experience, and pro. 
duce a yearly return entirely in harmony with the labor that has been employed 
in, and science directed toward, their cultivation ; and statistics establish the 
fact that in no township in the county have greater profits been derived 
from the same area of territory appropriated to agricultural purposes. 

In all respects, indeed, Erin Township has been blessed. Its schools are 
conducted by an efficient and intelligent class of instructors, the increase in the 
country's wealth enabling the people to properly reimburse such valuable serv- 
ices ; the opportunities for attending public worship are superior to those of many 
other sections, and the features of excellence visible in cultivated communities, 
are reproduced by the inhabitants, who have kept pace in science, morality 
and religion with the almost unexampled progress made in matters of a pecuniary 
character. 

DUBLIN SETTLEMENT. 

This settlement embraces about four miles square of territory, partly in 
Kent and partly in Erin Township, from Willet's Grove to Callan's Corner, 
and is settled largely by Irish farmers, who came from the immediate vicinity 
of Dublin, on the Lift'ey. 

The first settlers have already been mentioned, viz., Bartholomew Doyle 
and Michael Murphey, who made their several claims during the years 1839 and 
1840, and became the neighbors of James Timms, Jesse Willet, John Hart, and 
the pioneers generally who had preceded their arrival in the country. 

Doyle, who remained on his claim sufficiently long to enable him to 
complete a limited improvement and donate three acres thereof for the site of 
St. Mary's Church, sold out his domain to Robert Franey, and moved west 
about half a mile, where he again began the opening and improvement of a farm. 
Soon after these adventurous travelers from the Green Sod had made claims and 
established the beginning of a life in the West, free from the trammels and dis- 
couragements encountered at home, they were followed hither by brothers and 
kin from the land of their birth, through whose labors and intelligence the little 
spot of land known as Dublin has been made a veritable Paradise. 

They began to come in quite numerously about 1812, and thence to 1850, 
scarcely a week passed that the arrival of an additional toiler from over the sea 
was not noted. Among these were Andrew and George Cavanaugh, Andrew 
Farrell, who settled on land now owned by C. H. Hughes ; Dennis Maher, on 
land in Section 29, now owned by Daniel Brown; the family of a man named 
Burns, who, with his son, was drowned at Dixon, by the breaking of a bridge 
across Rock River. His widow and family, unappalled by this calamity, which 
greeted her arrival to the confines of a new home, pressed on, and was warmly 
welcomed to the new settlement by her sympathetic country-folk. Others came 
also, including John McNamara, Patrick Brown, etc., until the settlement became 
established, having a church and school of their own, and many other auxiliaries 
to comfort, happiness and independence. Indulging a spirit of that fellow-feel- 
ing which is said to make the whole world kin, that encouragement to the 
industrious and deserving poor which lightens the burden and illuminates the 
pathway, the Irish settlers of Dublin to-day, numbering about fifty families, 
cultivating an average of not less than 8.000 acres of land, living in harmony, one 
with the other, faithful to the duties daily imposed, charitable to all, present 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 507 

the picture of a life of felicity, sobriety and prosperity, as unusual as it is unde- 
niable, and as gratifying as it is pronounced. 

The first birth in the settlement occurred in 1843, a son to George 
Cavanagh. 

The first marriage solemnized was that of Robert Cavanagh to Bridget 
Maher, in 1844. A Mr. Gillis, died in December, 1845, the first death. He 
was taken sick during the autumn of that year, and, in spite of admonitions to 
care for himself, he continued to labor until about the date mentioned, when he 
"jumped the life to come," and was buried in the grove on Burns' Branch, 
when death and winter closed the autumn scene. 

ST. MARY S CHURCH OF THE MOUND. 

Dublin settlement was projected and completed in the days when the 
groves were God's first temples throughout the wilderness of Illinois. It was 
built of logs, being 18x20, and claimed as the first Catholic Church erected in 
the diocese, between Galena and Chicago, though the same claim is made for 
the Catholic Church in Rock Run Township, erected by the Mullarkey and 
Doyle families. St. Mary's was put up by the early settlers, eight logs high, 
but without furniture, i. e., pews or ornamentations, and occupied until 
1857, when the present stone edifice, 35x75, was completed and consecrated. 
The first Pastors in the old church were the Rev. Fathers Schlaugenberg, 
Petitot, Brady, Keeney, Durvin, Cavanagh and McLaughlin. The present 
congregation numbers sixty families, under the pastorate of Father Michael 
Hogan. 

The realty of the church includes forty acres, five of which are appropri- 
ated to cemetery purposes. These are located opposite the church edifice, and 
contain quite a number of handsome monuments. 

The church property is valued, with the parsonage, at $10,000. 

KNIGHTS OF ST. PATRICK OF NEW DUBLIN. 

A temperance association organized in District Schoolhouse No. 7, St. 
Patrick's Day, 1871, with twenty-two members. 

In 1874, the society purchased an acre of ground adjoining the school- 
house, on which was erected a frame hall one story htgh, 22x56 in dimensions. 
The labors of the association have been eminently successful ; the society at 
present enjoys a large membership, with the following officers, and owning prop- 
erty valued at $600 : Daniel Brown, President ; Bryan Duffey, Vice President ; 
Michael McGurk, Treasurer, and Peter Doyle, Secretary. 

Meetings are convened once a month. 

ELEROY, 

a pleasant village of 100 inhabitants, is located in the eastern portion 
of Erin Township, on the Illinois Central road, eight miles west of Freeport, 
and derives its importance from being the shipping-point for farmers in Erin, 
and certain portions of Kent and Harlem Townships. The location is beauti- 
ful ; being built in a grove, it possesses an abundance of shade trees, an orna- 
ment ordinarily wanting in prairie villages ; several springs of excellent water 
abound, and the ground upon which the village is built is sufficiently rolling 
to give the place a very picturesque appearance. The farming country in the 
vicinity is superior, and the business carried on considerable. 

In 1853, after the Illinois Central road had been surveyed, and while work 
on the road-bed was in progress, it was decided to locate a station in the vicinity 



508 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

of the village, and considerable speculation was indulged as to its exact site. 
This speculation bred discussions which led to the manifestation of a spirit of 
rivalry between the owners of property contiguous to the proposed depot, 
notably among whom were D. S. Jones, A. Bacon, D. S. Pickard and G. D. 
Babbitt. Finally, the three last named appropriated twenty acres of ground, 
and, procuring the services of F. D. Bulkley, surveyed the present village, 
laying out eighty six lots and otherwise, which were readily sold at prices 
ranging from $25 to $50 each, to George Andrews, James Harwood, James 
De Nure, Daniel Reese and other purchasers. At this time there were but two 
houses in the village limits, those of A. Bacon and S. 0. Pickard. 

Although lots sold without difficulty and at extravagant rates, improve- 
ments failed to keep pace with the expectations cultivated by lot-owners and 
would-be speculators, and it was not until the railroad was completed to Warren 
and trains began to run, that an impetus was given to building and business. 
In 1854, James F. Harwood put up the first store in the village. It was located 
on the present site of Huff's store, and after passing through several hands 
was burned under the proprietorship of Benjamin Merrill. The next houses 
were built by Samuel Mathews and E. H. Woodbridge, both being of frame, 
and other improvements followed in the wake of those mentioned. The follow- 
ing year Benjamin Merrill built another house, which met, in 1858, the fate of 
his previous enterprise. The schoolhouse, a one-story brick, was built that 
year also. William Harwood and David Stacks built, on Ridge street, in 1855, 
and Samuel Michaels on the same thoroughfare during 1857, the house now 
occupied by Mrs. Ansenberger. The panic of 1857 produced no visible effect 
upon the progress or decay of the village, which is to-day a quiet habitation of 
quiet people, with much in the beauty of its situation and surroundings to 
recommend it as a place of residence. 

The first marriage, as near as can be ascertained, after the village was laid 
out, was that between Horace Perkins and Susan Lloyd, in June, 1854, Squire 
A. Bacon tying the knot. The ceremony was performed while an epidemic 
of cholera was at its height, and the Justice who responded to the couple's 
solicitations to unite them, left the bedside of a member of his family, almost 
in the last pangs of dissolution, to discharge a duty imposed upon him by law. 

The first death was Mrs. Aseneth, wife of N. J. Churchill, who died 
August 17, 1858, and, there being no cemetery laid out at Eleroy, her body 
was interred at Lena. With regard to the first birth, the chronicles are silent. 

To-day, as already stated, Eleroy is a village of 100 population, according 
to the enumerations for 1880, and a shipping-point for grain and live stock, 
appreciating yearly. During 1879, there were 500 car loads of wheat and 
hogs shipped from this station. Within the village proper there are an elevator 
attached to the depot and operated by horse-power, two stores, a blacksmith- 
shop, school, church, and a number of private residences, which attract by their 
modest beauty and appearance of comfort. The "madding crowd" will 
scarcely ever run wild in the sunshine of Eleroy's prosperity, but want and 
distress, the attendant concomitants of riches and pretentiousness, will never be 
known within her bills of mortality. 

The School — Was built in 1855, and is still in use. One teacher is em- 
ployed, who directs the studies of an average daily attendance of sixty-five 
pupils, under the direction of a Board of Trustees, composed of David Ide, E. 
R. Prindle and John Winters. 

The annual expense is stated at 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 509 

The United Brethren Church — A handsome stone church, located at 
the further end of Bidge street, was erected in 1869, at the cost of $4,400, with 
a small membership under the pastorship of the Rev. 0. B. Phillips. Previous 
to that date, the congregation worshiped in the schoolhouse, but now the associ- 
ation, which consists of six communicants, hold services in the church on alter- 
nate Sundays, the Rev. J. F. Hallowell, officiating. 

The following Pastors have served : The Revs. 0. B. Phillips, I. K. Stratton, 
J. Johnson, E. D. Palmer and the present incumbent. 

A few Baptists under the charge of Elder F. Bower, of Waddams Grove, 
and a Methodist class led by Mr. Hazlett, of Freeport, also a limited number 
of the Evangelical society, presided over by the Rev. Mr. Fair, alternate in 
their occupation of the church, Sundays, morning and evening. 

Eleroy Lodge, No. Vlfl, I. 0. 0. F.—Was organized on the 18th of De- 
cember, 1857, with seven charter members, of whom N. J. Churchill was N. 
G. ; A. Bacon, V. G.; G. F. Anderson, Secretary, and A. C. Culver, Treas- 
urer. 

Meetings were first convened at the corner of Ridge and Coal streets, 
where they continued two years, and were attended with a gratifying degree of 
prosperity. Thence the lodge room was removed to Churchill's house, and 
after a brief period work was suspended, the lodge surrendering its charter. 
After remaining quiescent for a number of years, the lodge revived on October 
9, 1873, and is still in active operation. 

The present membership is stated at seventeen. Meetings are held weekly 
on Saturday night. The lodge property is valued at $275, and the officers are 
E. R. Prindle, N. G. ; John Hoff, V. G. ; John Winters, Treasurer, and H. 
Stocks, Secretary. 

Salem Lutheran Church — Located one mile from Eleroy, was established 
in 1856, and has since grown steadily in wealth and influence. In that year, 
the congregation erected a small stone church, which answered the demand 
until 1869, when the present imposing edifice was completed and dedicated to 
worship. It is of stone, 55x32, located in the center of a six-acre lot, part of 
which is dedicated to burial purposes, and its steeple can be plainly seen for 
miles around. The church cost about $4,000, and is one of the most elaborate 
in the county. 

The congregation, which numbers fifty-four members, support a school 
enjoying an average attendance of seventy pupils, taught by the Rev. William 
Wall, the Pastor, and an assistant. 



HARLEM TOWNSHIP, 

one of the central tier of townships, the fourth settled in point of date in the 
county, is inferior to none as regards its location and agricultural advantages. 
The township is plentifully supplied with wood and water, and possesses other 
features of excellence indigenous to the country. 

The first settler to visit the present township of Harlem with a view to 
locate permanently was Miller Preston, who came in 1835, and settled upon 
Section 22, near the Galena stage road. It is believed by members of his 
household who survive Mr. Preston, that he visited Stephenson County first in 
1833, coming from Dixon on a prospecting tour, and, after a hasty survey of 
the country, selected the site whereon he subsequently settled. Having made 
his claim in that year, he returned to Gallipolis, Ohio, where he concluded the 



510 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

tanning of a batch of hides upon which he was employed when considering the 
policy of emigrating to the West, and, purchasing a drove of cattle, came once 
more to Illinois, arriving upon his claim in the spring of 1835, the original 
settler in the present township of Harlem, which was then Lancaster Township, 
and so continued until the eastern portion of that territory was set off and 
appropriated to the organization under which it is now known. 

The country is represented as being peculiarly attractive at that date. The 
prairies were covered with flowers, dotted here and there with burr 'oak timber, 
the branches of which served as a shelter not only to the pioneers but to the 
dusky maiden and painted savage, from the dews of the nights in spring and 
the heat of the summer's sun. The soil was of surpassing richness, and 
streams, creeks, rivulets, brooks and springs were distributed about the terri- 
tory as if with mathematical exactness. But Mr. Preston proceeded to work at 
once and confirmed his title to the claim entered by erecting a log hut at the 
point above mentioned. The ax was sent to the heart of the surrounding trees 
by the muscular arms of the sturdy pioneer; log after log was rolled to, and 
fixed in, its proper place, and while the deer browsed among the fallen tree foliage, 
and the howl of the wolf from the surrounding hill-tops was heard above the 
contest with the forest, the first house in Harlem Township attained its limited 
proportions. 

In the succeeding fall, William Baker, Benjamin Goddard and others had 
settled in what was subsequently set off as Lancaster Township, where Mr. 
Preston enjoyed the society of neighbors, participating in the raising of Baker's 
cabin, and other social amenities calculated to promote the genial in a sparsely 
settled portion of the country. 

During 1836, except Elias McComber, there is no record of any one set- 
tling permanently in Harlem, but a year later the population was materially 
augmented by the arrival of John Edwards, who came in May ; Rezin, Levi and 
Thompson Wilcoxon, Levi Lewis, John Lewis, and some others. The same 
season, Levi Wilcoxon erected a mill on Richland Creek, on the present site of 
Scioto Mills. Among those who were employed during its building, John 
Lewis put in the water-wheel, and the following persons assisted in the various 
work necessary : John Edwards, George Cockerell, William Goddard, Alpheus 
Goddard, Peter Smith, Wesley Bradford, Homer Graves and John Anscomb. 
The mill was completed " and operated during the month of August of that 
year. 

In the year 1838, P. L. Wright settled on a claim purchased of William 
Robey, who had come on a short time previous, as also had E. H. D. Sanborn, 
the latter owning a claim of half a section on the Lancaster line, which he sub- 
sequently sold to George Furst for $2,800; William Preston, who settled on 
the banks of the Pecatonica, Lewis Preston, Mathew Bridendall, and some 
others. Lewis Preston settled on Section 10, and, before he had put his house 
in order, an infant daughter was added to the family number, the first birth in 
the township. She grew to womanhood, and to-day, as Mrs. Benjamin Brown, 
has been enumerated in the census returns of the State of Iowa. 

In 1839, Robert Young settled in the township near the mouth of Cedar 
Creek. Benjamin Bennett came the same year, and bought what is now 
known as the Putnam farm. In the month of February of this year, the first 
death in the township took place — Mrs. William Preston, who died at the resi- 
dence of her husband in Section 15, and was buried in the vicinity. 

Between 1839 and 1845, Thompson Cockerel settled on the east side of 
the Pecatonica ; Charles W. and Robert Barber, and others became residents 




7/X 1 / ' 

(Deceased j 
ONECO. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 513 

of the township ; a man named Clark married the " Widow " Lyon, and many 
other events of great import, doubtless, were included among the number 
accomplished. 

From this date thenceforward to the survey of the Illinois Central route 
through the township, immigration was scarcely proportioned to that in the 
direction of other townships in the county. The lands were cheap, and advan- 
tages equal to those offered elsewhere, but for some unaccountable reason the 
incoming settler was an unknown commodity, or one of such rare exception as 
to create comment. About 1850, a change came over the spirit of those who 
came West, and many began to settle in Harlem. When the railroad was sur- 
veyed, however, and its construction determined beyond doubt, the value of land 
appreciated, until to-day property which sold for $12 per acre twenty-five years 
ago cannot be had at thrice that sum. The water privileges, too, became valu- 
able about this time, though necessity and speculation had made a market there- 
for almost with the first settlement. 



KENT TOWNSHIP. 

This township comprises the east half of Township 27, Range 5, and the 
west half of Township 27, Range 6, with an aggregate of 22,700 acres, upward 
of 20,000 acres being under cultivation. The township is well watered by Yel- 
low Creek and its numerous branches, and a fine growth of timber is to be found 
in the northern part. 

The first settlement was made in 1827, by O. W. Kellogg, who ventured 
into the wilderness of Burrows' (now Timms' Grove), and erected a shanty, 
which remained intact until 1862, when it was torn down and a new one 
erected on the site; this is still standing, owned by a Mr. Taylor. 

The old cabin, however, was first sold to a man named Lafayette, who in 
turn assigned his title to one by the name of Green, from Galena. The latter 
remained in possession until 1835, when James Timms became the purchaser, 
removing thither with his family the same year, the first permanent settler in 
the township, and the only settler at that date west of Freeport. In the fall of 
1835, Jesse Willet came in, and settled at what is now known as Willet's bridge, 
below Timms', building a house there that is yet standing. Calvin and Jabez 
Giddings are said to have come about the same time and established themselves 
on Yellow Creek, four miles north of Timms'. During the winter of that year 
and the spring of 1836, there is no record of any one having ventured into the 
vicinity, wherein Timms and his neighbors held undisputed possession, and culti- 
vated patches of corn and other grains. In the fall of 1836. Gilbert Osborn 
was added to the number of settlers already mentioned, and again was the col- 
ony remitted to quiet and relief from further incursions by pioneer plodders in 
the wilderness. In 1839, J. Reber settled one and a half miles northwest of 
Timms', and in the following year Frank Maginnis erected a cabin on the pres- 
ent farm of Jacob Gable. Benjamin Illingsworth settled near the Timms house, 
making that hospitable mansion a home while his cabin was without a roof to 
protect its owner from the inclemency of the weather. 

Previous to this last date, a mill had been erected on Yellow Creek by 
John and Frederick Reber, and, as it was near the center of the township, it 
was liberally patronized. Before its completion, the settlers had been obliged to 
procure the grinding of their cereals at Craig's mill, on Apple River, at Buffalo 
Creek, in Ogle County, and elsewhere. The inhabitants obtained their supplies 



514 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

of bacon from Galena or Dixon, and when short of " hog-meat," indulged an 
appetite for game, which was to be found in abundance in the winter, on barrens 
and prairie. In 1837, a school was opened by William Ensign in the house of 
James Timms, where he taught the young idea, acknowledged by the Timms, 
Maginnis, Giddings and Willet families, the rudiments of reading, writing and 
arithmetic. By these and kindred means did the early pioneers of Kent 
Township not only dissipate dull care, but contributed in providing substantial 
means for future wealth and civilization. 

Among others who settled up the township was Thomas Carter, Isaac 
Rand, etc. ; Samuel Bailey settled across Yellow Creek ; Jacob Gable came in 
and purchased the Maginnis place ; L. L. L. Pitcher, who is still living near the 
old Timms place ; a man named Lathrop, with some few others, were among the 
number who became identified with the cultivation and development of the county 
in that portion subsequently allotted to Kent. 

In 1840, the township began to be made the objective point for a large 
proportion of emigrants coming into Northern Illinois. These, as is well 
known, were largely made up of natives of Pennsylvania and the more Eastern 
States. They brought resources with them, and their industry, thrift, economy 
and perseverance have been the agencies through which not only Stephenson 
County and Illinois, but the Great West, to-day in the last degree prosperous, 
have been brought to that condition of independence it now enjoys. Thence to 
1 850 the increase in population, proportioned to the inducements held out to 
become residents, was large and profitable. In 1844, the land came into 
market and was sold at public vendue in Dixon. For a short time after, there 
was considerable trouble between settlers who had come at an early day and 
purchasers at the Dixon sales, arising from a conflict of title to lands thereat 
disposed of. The difficulties growing out of this dispensation were, however, 
compromised in time, and what promised to prevent, for a season at least, the 
gratifying success now apparent throughout the township, in no manner mate- 
rially affected its settlement, growth or improvement. 

Since 1850, when the results of nearly twenty years of labor began to 
bear fruit, the prosperity of the township has been not more pronounced than 
rapid. Since 1832, when Capt. Adam Snyder was attacked by Indians while 
encamped in Kellogg's Grove, until to-day, nature and art would seem to have 
combined to render Kent Township attractive. That they have proved irresist- 
ible to a superior class of settlers, is to be found in the wealth and education 
of the inhabitants, the cultivated fields, the handsome homes, the schools and 
churches and other evidences of refinement and morality which greet the eye of 
the permanent and transient at all points. 

The first marriage in the township was in 1837, between James Blair and 
Kate Marsh, who were united at the house of James Timms. 

The first birth was a son to James Timms and wife, who was born on the 
26th of May, 1837, christened Harvey M. Timms, and now resides in Loran 
Township, a prosperous farmer. 

Jesse Willet, Jr., is reputed to have been the first death in the township.^ 
He was buried at what was afterward known as " Willet's burying-ground," 
where the Dunkard Church now stands. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 515 



RIDOTT TOWNSHIP. 

Occupies the southeastern corner of the county and is nine miles in length 
by six in width, with an area of 34,400 acres, of which about 30,000 acres are 
under cultivation. It is well watered in the northern part by the Pecatonica and 
tributary streams, and heavily timbered in that section also, while the southern 
portion is mostly rolling prairie. 

The township formed a portion of Silver Creek Precinct until after the 
passage of the law providing for township organization, when it was laid off and 
named, it is said, after a clerk in the Post Office Department at Washington. 
The first settlement of the town was made in the spring of 1836, by Andrew 
Jackson and Jefferson Niles, who claim to have come on the 4th of March of that 
year, and built a shanty on the east bank of the Pecatonica. During the winter 
of 1835 or 1836, or early in the spring of the latter year, Harvey P. Waters, 
accompanied by Lyman Bennett, visited the present territory of Stephenson 
County, and halted at the mouth of Yellow Creek, now included within the 
limits of Silver Creek Township. He remained here until spring had become 
an established fact in this section, when he removed to Ridott, and is still enu- 
merated in the census of that town. That spring, it is said, quite a number of 
settlers identified themselves with future Ridott, and, besides increasing the 
number of voters in that portion of the county, contributed materially to the 
promulgation of its attractions. Among these were Sawyer Forbes, Daniel 
Wooten, who settled one mile west of the present village of Ridott ; Horace 
Colburn, where Samuel Moyer now resides ; a man named Wickham, who 
entered the land upon which the village of Ridott is located ; John Reed and 
brother, who squatted on the Farwell farm ; Benjamin and Josiah Ostrander, at 
the mouth of the Creek ; David Niles, on land subsequently owned by Garrett 
Lloyd ; Asa Nichols, and some others. They, one and all, indulged the same 
anticipations, experienced the same vicissitudes, conquered the same hardships, 
and rejoiced in final victory, as did those who came at an early day, and, in 
other portions of the county, were tried and triumphed gloriously. 

The primary settlements made in Ridott, as elsewhere in portions of the 
county watered by the Pecatonica, were established along the bank of the river. 
The land there was more desirable, apparently, for agricultural purposes than 
the rolling prairies at a distance from the stream, and the water-power 
sought to be utilized for mechanical and other purposes was deemed as an 
invaluable adjunct to the building-up of the country. The houses were, 
of course, primitive beyond description, often being constructed of sod, with 
thatched roofs and other evidences of the limited resources available in those 
days. Yet this discouraging outlook attracted rather than dismayed the emi- 
grants, who came in large numbers even after the township had been generally 
settled, and desirable sites were held at extravagant rates. In 1837, Caleb 
Tompkins took up land in the timber on what was afterward known as the 
Bride Farm. G. A. Seth, Isaac and Eldredge Farwell settled adjoining each 
other, four miles east of the present village. . : Gar ; rett Lloyd became a settler 
this year also, as did Norman, Levi, Isaac and Orsemus Brace, Harvey and 
Jeremiah Webster, Sybil Ann Price, who entered a claim to land three miles 
east of the present; village ; Stewart .Reynolds, Sanford Niles, etc. -. These were 
followed in 1838 by Lewis and David Gitchell, Philo Hammond, Ezekiel and 
■ Jacob oFoRsy the, John Lloyd, a brother of Garrett Lloyds who "came the year 
opreviofuficjT Pttteam* Eerley, who entered a claim to the place now known as 



516 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

Hemmen way's; Ezekiel Brown, who settled near Holmes' Mill; John Brazee, 
one mile west of the village, probably Christian Clay, and others. In the fall 
of 1837, a girl was introduced into the household of Daniel and Julia Wooten, 
who was christened Margaret, and published as the first birth to occur in the 
township. In 1839, among those who cast their lines in the pleasant places 
with which Silver Creek Precinct abounded, were Charles Babcock and George 
H. Watson, accompanied by 1,000 sheep ; William B. Hawkins, Ross and 
Anson Babcock, John Karcher, Lewis Woodruff, etc., etc. Early this year, 
i. e., on March 10, Thomas J. Turner, who had been among the first to settle 
in the township and make permanent improvements, and was then acting in 
the capacity of a Justice of the Peace, performed the first marriage ceremony 
that occurred in the town ; the celebrants were A. J. Niles and Nancy A., 
daughter of Gustavus A. Farwell ; the ceremony took place at the farmhouse 
of N. Eldredge Farwell, and the "couple" began the voyage of life without the 
"fixins " and " flourish " now deemed indispensable to similar events. 

The decade between 1840 and 1850 was noticeable for the number and 
quality of those who came into Ridott to settle ; during that period the 
improvements that were made, included the railroad then projected, and 
many other features of enterprise that in these Edisonian days would be 
regarded as bubbles on the water. On the 28th of August, 1842, a colony 
of English agriculturists arrived in the township and took up land that 
had been reserved for their occupation in the timber. The " head-centers " 
of the party sent out an agent the year previous who canvassed the situa- 
tion in America, prospected over the West quite generally, and, after making 
careful estimates of the advantages offered elsewhere, advised the establish- 
ment of an English colony in the township of Ridott. The report submitted 
and containing the recommendation cited was adopted, and in harmony there- 
with, the following persons came into the township : Thomas Hunt, wife and 
mother ; Robert Knight, Charles Foulkes, Robert Lankford and wife, Thomas 
Clay, Henry Layland Knight and wife, Charlotte Hurst, John Wooton, George 
Barnes, Joseph Gibson, Joseph Lester and W. R. Fairburn and wife. They 
settled in the timber rvnd remained together about one year and a half, employ- 
ing their knowledge, obtained at home, in preparing the earth for the bounteous 
harvests, which have since been yielded. At the expiration of that period, 
death, a division of sentiments and other causes combined to dissolve the colony, 
the members of which were distributed about the then almost undiscovered 
West. Many, however, remained in Stephenson County, where they have 
prospered, and are, to-day, among the most extensive and enterprising farmers 
in this portion of the State. 

About 1850, lands began to increase in value and command ready sale. 
During that year, the influx of Germans was quite large. They were com- 
posed of the better class of that nationality, and, settling south of the old State 
road, opened up farms and completed improvements, which to the present day, 
testify in behalf of those who projected and concluded them. The colony 
originally numbered about fifty members, among whom were Poppa Poppa, 
Wessel Wessels, Jurin van Buckum, Christian Akerman, Folk Huyanga, 
Yelle Ruter, Uno Collman, T. Jussen and others, whose descendants have sur- 
vived them and succeeded to generous inheritances, the fruit of labor employed 
by their parents, and which has done so much to create a demand for land 
in the State. 

From 1'850 t6 1860y "the settlements made by individuals and parties were 
more frequent and permanent. ' In l8*52v'the Galena & Chicago road, since 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 517 

passed into the possession of the Northwestern corporation, was completed 
through Ridott and contributed materially to the populating and improvement 
of the township. In 1860, the lands had been generally taken up and occu- 
pied ; the war, as a matter of course, diminished the population to an apprecia- 
ble extent ; but since its close, the numbers who enlisted and never returned 
have been made up by the arrival of those now counted among the inhab- 
itants and identified with the public good. The township, to-day, is regarded, 
by those at least who reside within its limits, as one of the most healthful, 
fertile and desirable in the county, the home of industry, independence and 
prosperity. 

The first deaths are alleged to be the drowning of Milburn and 'Reed, in 
Pecatonica River, as related in the history of Silver Creek Township, in which 
township it is also claimed this accident occurred. 

RIDOTT VILLAGE. 

When the Galena & Chicago Railroad was completed through the township, 
a station was established about one mile west of the present village, and a town 
surveyed and platted. The place was named Nevada, after Nevada City, Colo., 
at which point Daniel Wooten, who owned the ground upon which the 
former place was located, died in 1849, while en route to California. A post 
office was established here, of which William Wright was the Postmaster. Con- 
siderable improvements were made, and for several years appearances seemed 
to indicate that Nevada would, in a brief time, become a thriving town. 

This condition of affairs remained unchanged until the summer of 1860. 
At that time, J. S. Cochran and brother, of Freeport, purchased 60 acres of 
land upon part of which the village of Ridott now stands. It seems that prior to 
the purchase of the town site, the Cochrans had concluded a contract with the rail- 
road company, by the terms of which the former were to grade the side tracks, 
plat and lay out the town, in consideration of the company's removing the sta- 
tion to the point now occupied. Accordingly, the side tracks, etc., were com- 
pleted, thirty acres of land were surveyed and platted into lots 30x120, and on 
the 10th day of July, 1860, the station was removed. Immediately thereafter, 
G. W. Loveland, Postmaster at Nevada, in obedience to instructions from the 
Department, removed the post office thither, and completed his present house on 
Adams street, the first house in the village, which was at that time known as 
" Cochranville." Improvements were made without delay. The Cochrans built 
the large frame building on Adams street, now known as the " Farmers' Store." 
A man named Oscar H. Osborn erected a house near the track, and adapted 
the same to residence and saloon purposes. In 1861, Samuel Irvin built a shoe- 
shop on Adams street ; James Clark, a residence on the same thoroughfare, and 
W. E. Moorhouse a dwelling on Jefferson street, these constituting the improve- 
ments made until the close of the war. The period intervening between 1861 
and 1865 was not noticeable for enterprise ; some little building was carried on, 
but nothing of note is remembered to have occurred. Quite a number of sol- 
diers enlisted from Cochranville and vicinity, a limited number of whom 
returned, the remainder yielded to the fortunes of war and were buried in the 
trenches, or settled elsewhere. 

During the fall of 1861, through the agency of a petition prepared by the 
residents and addressed to the Department at Washington, the name of the 
village was changed to " Ridott," by which name it has been known to the postal 
authorities, the commercial world and the general public, ever since. 



518 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

After the peace at Appomattox Court House, an impetus was given to 
building up and improving the village. Ross Babcock erected the brick block 
on Adams street, containing two stores, office rooms and "Ridott Hall," a com- 
modious audience-room dedicated to "free speech," wherein the Free Methodists 
hold services, lectures are delivered, soirees are given, and the cheerful min- . 
strel warbles his melodies. Isaac S. Shirey put up a handsome residence on 
Washington street ; J. A. Kerr followed the precedent on the same street, and 
later, Josiah Deimer, Mrs. Lewis Getchell, Reuben Clark and Hezekiah Poffen- 
berger, on the same thoroughfare; Henry Gibler, one on Adams street; Dr. M. 
W. Walton moved a building into the village and reconstructed it, making an 
attractive residence out of its frame, etc., etc. 

In 1867, the church edifice of the United Brethren Association on Adams 
street was commenced, and completed during the year following. In 1869, the 
old red schoolhouse on the Waters place was vacated, and the base of operations 
changed to the handsome brick schoolhouse on Jefferson street, completed that 
year and since occupied. 

The past ten years have been years of prosperity, though not fruitful of 
events or replete with accidents or incidents calculated to inspire ambitious 
youth or create a fever in the blood of the age. In 1875, the town was incor- 
porated as a village, under the general law, with the following list of officers. 
It should be observed, however, that the first birth was a son to Oscar and Mary 
Osborn, named Irwin, and who now resides in Iowa. The first death was 
Elizabeth Leech, and the marriage of Brock Mullen to Mrs. Mary Hill was 
the first matrimonial venture concluded in the town. 

The village now contains a population of about 350, has three stores, two 
blacksmith-shops, two saloons, two religious congregations, and one wagon, 
shoe and harness shop, also one livery stable. 

OFFICIAL ROSTER. 

1874— F. D. Coolidge, President; H. P. Waters, Samuel Moyer, 0. M. 
Doty, W. A. Kerr and J. L. Robinson, Associates. 

1875— Reuben Clark, President; Samuel Moyer, J. L. Robinson, C. L. 
Christie, H. Poffenberger and W. A. Kerr. 

1876— Isaac S. Shirey, President; C. L. Christie, Reuben Clark, 0. M. 
Doty, H. Poffenberger and Samuel Moyer. 

1877 — H. Poffenberger, President; Samuel Moyer, Terrence Griffin, H. 
Gochenour, F. W. Kerr and Robert Shirey. 

1878 — Henry Gochenour, President; C. W. Warner, C. A. Dibble and 
G. W. Moyer. 

At a special election held November 5, 1878, Isaac S. Shirey and 0. M. 
Doty were selected as Trustees. 

1879— Isaac S. Shirey, President; Reuben Clark, W. K. McGilligan, 
Samuel Moyer, 0. M. Doty and H. B. Dibble. 

1880— H. Poffenberger, President; R. Clark, W. K. McGilligan, H. 
Gochenour, C. Knickenberg and James Hotchkiss. 

Clerks.— W. A. Kerr, 1874; I. S. Shirey, 1875; W. K. McGilligan, 
1876-78; G. R. Loveland, 1879; George E. Bennett, 1880. 

Treasurers.— S. Moyer, 1874-76; G. W. Loveland, 1877-80. 

Police Magistrates. — G. W. Loveland, 1875: resigned and was succeeded 
by M. W. Walton, who still serves. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 519 



SCHOOLS. 



The first school taught in this portion of the township, was a select school 
in a log house on the farm of Horace Colburn, now owned by Samuel Moyer. 
Here Miss Laura Colburn and her successors in office sowed the seeds of 
knowledge and administered the birch for about ten years. At that date, or in 
1855, a frame schoolhouse was erected on the farm of Harvey P. Waters, and 
for fourteen years the " Old Red Schoolhouse," by which term it was known, 
did duty as a church, lecture-room and house of entertainment, in addition to 
the object for which it was erected. In 1869, the brick schoolhouse on Jeffer- 
son street was completed, the " Old Red " vacated, and moved to the Moyer 
farm, where it supplies a varied want, graphically expressed as "long felt," 
being a wash-house, butcher shop, and what not peculiar to settlements pro- 
vided with limited resources. 

The present school edifice is 40x60, compactly built, two stories high, and 
cost about $5,000. The premises contain two departments, employ two teachers, 
and enjoy an average daily attendance of seventy-five pupils. The schools are 
conducted at an annual expense of $1,200, a portion of which is obtained from 
the State, and are under the control of a board composed of Wesley Johns, J. 
A. Kerr and Marvin Hammond. 

RELIGIOUS. 

United Brethren Association. — This society, the largest and most influen . 
tial in Ridott, was established in the township before the village was laid out, 
with a small membership, under the pastorate of the Rev. James Johnson. 
The congregation was composed of residents of Nevada principally, as also mem- 
bers of the denomination residing in other portions of Ridott Township, and serv- 
ices were conducted in the schoolhouse, first on the Moyer farm, and, finally, 
until the church was built, in that on the Waters farm. 

In 1867, the frame edifice on Adams street was commenced, its comple- 
tion and dedication being postponed until the following year, when it was taken 
possession of and has since been occupied. It is of frame, 28x48, handsomely 
equipped, capable of seating an audience of two hundred. The congregation at 
present numbers forty-five members ; the church property represents an estima- 
ted valuation of $2,500, and the following have officiated as Pastors : Revs. 
James Johnson, Mr. Frazer, Mr. Dodds, Mr. Davis, L. B. Peck, G. B. Wal- 
ker, J. H. Phillips, Mr. Thayer, P. Hurles, I. K. Statten, J. H. Grimm, F. 
Reibel, H. D. Hesley, and W. S. Hayes, the present incumbent. 

Free Methodists — Numbering about thirty communicants, was organized 
in 1875, under the pastorate of Rev. Mr. Ferns. The association worships in 
Babcock's Hall, the Rev. Mr. Frink being the Pastor in charge. 

RIDOTT CEMETERY, 

located on the farm of Samuel Moyer, and laid out about 1868 or 1869, 
is a handsome inclosure of one acre, devoted to burial purposes, and under 
the control of Mr. Moyer. The cemetery contains some elaborately carved 
monuments, commemorating the virtues of those who sleep beneath the sod, 
and is a spot of beauty, if not a resort for joyous pleasure, that will be regarded 
with sympathetic interest until the world is rolled up like a scroll. 

POST OFFICE. 

Was removed from Nevada in 1860, to the depot in Cochranville, with G. W. 
Loveland as Postmaster. In the fall of 1861, it was changed to Ridott. Mr. 



520 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

Loveland remained in charge until 1863, when he was succeeded by Samuel 
Irvin, who removed the office to his store on Adams street. He was followed by 
William Carroll, Jr., who continued in possession from 1865 until 1870, when 
Jacob D. Schmeltzer took charge, and acted until I. S. Shirey was appointed. 
Mr. S. discharged the trust until the fall of 1879, when he resigned and G. 
S. Babcock was appointed his successor, and is still serving. 

RIDOTT BAND. 

The village boasts a band, composed of the young men residing in the 
vicinity, which was organized in 1878, and on all occasions when its services 
are called into requisition, discourses most excellent music. 



WEST POINT TOWNSHIP. 

This township, located on the western boundary of the county, is six miles 
square, embracing the east half of Township 28, with an aggregate area of 
22,800 acres, 19,574 of which are under cultivation. The western portion of 
the township is as fine prairie as can be seen anywhere, while the part occupied 
by Waddams Grove, is covered with a superior quality of timber. In the 
eastern portion of the township, there is more or less scattering timber, or, as 
they are usually called, openings. A number of excellent limekilns and stone- 
quarries have been opened in the township ; there is no lack of excellent water ; 
fruit is cultivated with profit to the producer, and a steady market is afforded 
the farmers — combinations which have aided in building up and rendering 
prosperous what is claimed by the inhabitants of West Point, as the banner 
township in the county. 

In the early part of the year 1832, William Waddams, accompanied by 
his sons Hiram and Nelson, arrived in Illinois, and, staking out his claim on 
the north side of the grove which has inherited his name, became the pioneer 
settler, not only of West Point Township, but also of Stephenson County. 
He was, barring the presence of his two children, solitary and alone in the 
primeval forests of the undeveloped West, with neighbors on the east no nearer 
than Rock River, Galena on the west, and Grant County, Wis., at the north, 
where there lived Andrew Clino, a man who is represented at that date to have 
been a patriarch in years, adventures and experience. 

Here he resided for two years and upward, when George S. Payne ven- 
tured into the vicinity, and settled himself on the farm subsequently owned 
by Thomas S. French. During this year, John Garner, with his sons, A. J. 
and Alphonso Garner, entered a claim within half a mile of the present limits 
of the village of Lena. This trinity comprehended the number of emigrants 
who yielded to Western attractions, and established an abiding-place in West 
Point Township. The precedent thus established was emulated a year later 
by Rodney and Luman Montague and William Tucker. These gentlemen 
settled near William Waddams, and for years supplied the absence of neighbors. 

In 1836, Jabez Smith, Alfred and Sanford Giddings, looked in upon the 
settlement established near Waddams Grove, but passed on and became 
identified with the building up of Kent Township. John B. Kaufman came in 
1835, and remained only a year, when he moved to Erin Township, but Wash- 
ington Parker, who settled in West Point during 1836, remained without in- 
dulging his wandering proclivities. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 521 

The tide of emigration which followed westwardly in 1837, was not 
checked, did not ebb, before West Point Township was overrun with new-comers, 
many of whom remained, while others drifted into the waves of circumstances or 
inclination and went elsewhere. Among those who added materially to the 
population of the promising township was the family of Samuel F. Dodds, 
David T. Perry, Robert and William Lashell, James and Oliver Thompson, 
Mr. Graham, Benjamin, John and Jesse Tucker, Jacob Burbridge, Martin 
Howard, John Harmon, Samuel and Marshall Bailey, George Place and others. 
Jacob Burbridge, at the time of the Black Hawk war, resided on Apple River, 
and served as a volunteer in the campaigns which were concluded only when 
the savages, led by their wily chief, evaded extermination by surrender and 
humiliation. 

In 1838, Thomas E. Way, Samuel F. Dodds and J. D. Fowler, and in 
1839, M. L. Howard, joined their individual fortunes with the pioneer settle- 
ment, and remained to participate in the profits that accrued with time and the 
advance of civilization, and in 1839 and 1840, the population was measurably 
increased, until in the latter year an informal census returned an enumeration 
of sixty residents. Ten years later a similar experiment established the popu- 
lation at 250, all told. 

In September, 1853, the Galena & Chicago Union road was completed 
to Freeport, its success due, in no inconsiderable degree, to the aid extended 
by the inhabitants of Stephenson County. The result was that, notwithstand- 
ing the increase in the value of lands of at least 25 per cent, the township 
began to fill up with settlers of a sterling character, who lent an additional force 
to that already employed in the cultivation of West Point, and appreciated the 
value of all her material interests. Lands were held at a stiff price, which was 
gradually increased each year, until 1865, when they were quoted as com- 
manding a steady demand, at a rate per acre not differing from that paid dur- 
ing the year last mentioned. This was continued until the panic of 1873, 
when "nominal" were substituted for substantial prices, and remained under 
that head until the paralysis in business was succeeded by a healthy re-action, 
and that supplemented by complete restoration. 

In January, 1854, the road was completed to Warren, and, in the spring 
of that year, Samuel F. Dodds, in conjunction with the Illinois Central Com- 
pany, laid out 160 acres of land, in the southeast corner of the township, for a 
village site, and named it Lena, by which it is still known, a prosperous munici- 
pality and the shipping point for farmers residing at points within the radius 
of twelve or fifteen miles. 

From 1850 to 1860, the increase in population, both of the village and 
township, was rapid, the population of the latter in 1860 being 1,798. This 
was slightly increased a year later, when the war broke out, which had the 
effect, not only of diminishing the number then enumerated, but also of pre- 
venting any increase during its continuance. Immediately upon the conclu- 
sion of hostilities, the number of inhabitants once more attained large dimen- 
sions, as the census taken during the current year (1880) indicated. 

During the war, the quota under every call made by the Federal Gov- 
ernment for troops was promptly filled, and the township was well represented 
in the Eleventh, Fifteenth, \Forty-fifth, Forty-sixth and Ninety-second Regi- 
ments of Volunteer Infantry, and Fourteenth Regiment of Volunteer Cavalry. 
All of those who went into the service, discharged the trust committed to their 
care with fidelity; many of them were left the occupants of " trenches " or 



522 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

unknown graves by the sea, many of them returned to participate in the ben- 
efits sought to be attained by victory. 

In November, 1835, the Rev. James McKean, a Methodist minister, 
preached in the cabin of Luman Montague, and, in the following year, a Meth- 
odist class-meeting was organized. In about 1840, the Rev. Aratus Kent, 
who was identified with the cause of religion in Galena and Dubuque years 
previous, came to Waddams Grove and organized a Presbyterian class ; about 
the same period, a Sabbath school was held in J. D. Fowler's cabin, and a 
school for the education of the young in a log house erected near the residence 
of Luman Montague. 

From these insignificant beginnings, the causes of morality and education 
in West Point Township have attained an importance and value that can only 
be measured by the beneficial influence they have exerted, not alone in the build- 
ing-up of the township, but in formulating and maintaining of a quality of 
public opinion which finds expression in the character of the people, and their 
observance of those obligations which civilization and humanizing influences 
impose. 

In the latter part of 1850, the west half of Township 28 was taken from 
Waddams, and added to West Point, making the latter six miles square, its 
present boundaries. 

In 1836, Amanda Waddams was born at her father's cabin, which still 
stands on the Waddams farm, about four miles west of Lena, on the road from 
Nora to McConnell's Grove, being occupied by Mrs. George Place, who, as Eunice 
Waddams, was married to George Place, July 4, 1837, by Squire Levi Robey, 
the first marriage in the township, and the first of record in the county. 

About 1839, Minerva Rathburn, residing with Robert Burbridge, near 
Pin Hook, while engaged in scuffling with Abija Watson in Mr. Burbridge's 
house, was accidentally thrown against a peg driven into the logs as a shelf 
support, and received injuries which caused her death soon after. This was 
the first death in the township, and the first burial in what was known as 
Waddams' cemetery — long since vacated, and now inclosed in the farm owned 
by J. P.Fair. 

LENA. 

The town of Lena is located in parts of Sections 32 and 33, on the Illinois 
Central Railroad, twelve miles west of Freeport, and is, next to that city, the 
largest town in the county. 

In 1853, the survey of the present railroad corporation had located its 
route and the grading of the right of way was begun. As soon as the building 
of this highway of commerce had been settled, Samuel F. Dodds, who owned 
eighty acres of land on the present site of the town, acting on behalf of the 
railroad company, purchased an additional tract of 80 acres, and laid out the 
town. The survey was made by B. Dornblazer, the original town being in the 
form of a parallelogram, comprehending twenty-six blocks and a total of 304 
lots. Subsequently, I. C. Allen, S. J. Kimball, Underwood k Albee, C. 
Roush, N. C. Pickard, A. Weaver and A. C. Allen, made additions to the 
original town, increasing its dimensions to a large extent. 

When the town was laid out, Samuel F. Dodds owned a stone residence 
then and now occupying Lot No. 1, on Lena street, while Dr. F. Voight held title 
to a log house standing a short distance east of where the depot was subse- 
quently erected. It remained intact until the advance of improvements com- 
pelled its demolition. These two houses embraced the list of buildings at that 
time — there were no others of any description. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 523 

During that summer, lots sold rapidly, commanding prices varying from 
$50 to $150 each, William Allen and S. H. McEathron, being among the first 
to purchase and make improvements. Allen put up a store at once, but McEath- 
ron delayed the erection of a building, devoted to similar purposes, until the 
fall. Both were of frame, but only one survives the lapse of a quarter of a 
century. 

On New Year's Day, 1854, the track was laid, and cars began to run 
between Freeport and Warren. This had the effect of increasing the number 
of arrivals and stimulating enterprise. The additions to the population were 
largely made up of English and Irish, many of whom became permanent resi- 
dents, together with representatives from the Eastern States, who engaged in 
business, and have since been identified with the growth and prosperity of the 
town. 

In this year, there were about a dozen families in Lena, and the following 
comprise the business directory: 

Dry goods and groceries — S. H. McEathron, William Allen, J. E. Am- 
brose. 

Lumber yard — J. N. Clifford. 

Blacksmith — William Young. 

Grain dealer — N. Perrin. 

Postmaster and railroad agent — Samuel F. Dodds. 

Physicians — Drs. N. C. Pickard and F. Voight. 

There were three church organizations in the village, viz. : Presbyterian, 
Rev. R. Colston, Pastor ; Methodist, Rev. A. Wolf, Pastor ; Baptist, Rev. 
J. E. Ambrose, Pastor. There were no church edifices in the village or town- 
ship at that time, and the several congregations occupied the schoolhouse 
alternately. The public school was in charge of Miss S. D. Hyde. Dr. 
J. R. Chambers, the only other physician in the township, was located at 
Louisa. 

From this date until 1860, the increase in population was quite rapid. 
The panic of 1857 produced no pronounced effect disastrous to the growth of 
the town, which progressed in business and importance in a manner that was 
gratifying to those who had first projected its survey. During the summer of 
1855, Reber & Cheney and S. F. Dodds began the three-story brick build- 
ing at the corner of Railroad and Schuyler streets. It was completed about 
the fall of 1856, at a cost of about $4,000, and is still used for business pur- 
poses. 

In the same year. 1856, the Baptist denomination, which had been wor- 
shiping in the log schoolhouse at the eastern end of the town, built the church 
edifice, now occupied by that sect, on Galena street. This was the first church 
built within the town limits. It is of frame, and the only one of that material 
in Lena. Before 1860, however, the Presbyterian, Lutheran, Methodist and 
German Methodist societies had each erected commodious edifices. 

In 1860, the population had increased to not less than 600. Lena had 
become a prominent shipping-point for grain and stock, vast amounts of the lat- 
ter being consigned to factDrs in Chicago, St. Louis, and elsewhere, and tho 
center of trade for farmers residing in West Point, Waddams and Winslow 
Townships, as also for those residing in the eastern and southeastern portions 
of Jo Daviess County. 

When the war broke out, volunteers responded to the call, and troops from 
the townships adjoining rendezvoused at Lena. This enlivened business to an 
appreciable extent, which was continued during the entire struggle. In 1863, 



524 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

the necessities of the case influenced Mr. Weaver to erect an elevator now 
standing at the corner of South Railroad and Schuyler streets, and, during the 
continuance of the contest waged between the sections, improvements of a sub- 
stantial character, consisting of stores and residences, both of brick and frame, 
were made. 

With the close of the war, there was scarcely any perceptible diminution in 
the amount of business transacted ; thence to 1870 improvements maintained a 
steady increase, and the population appreciated in number. There were no 
vacant houses to be found, and the demand for residences and storehouses was, 
if anything, greater than had been previously quoted ; in fact, the residents 
now living say, that, from the time the town was first laid out to the present 
date, there have not been sufficient houses to accommodate new-comers or supply 
the demands of business. 

In 1869, the Lena Star, a weekly paper, Independent in politics, was estab- 
lished, and has since been conducted successfully, without having missed an 
issue. In 1868, the opera house was built by F. E. Brine, and is still used for 
dramatic and social gatherings. 

On the 16th of April, 1866, the village of Lena was incorporated as a town 
under the general law of the State, and on the 23d of the same month the elec- 
tion of Trustees was held, with the following result: A. W. Hall, A. H. Stahl, 
William Hayes, A. Weaver and S. H. McEathron. On the 27th, the board 
qualified, and organized by the appointment of A. W. Hall, President, and 
Samuel J. Dodds, Clerk. 

On the 20th day of April, 1869, the town of Lena was organized under a 
special charter passed by the Legislature and approved by the Governor March 
30, 1869, defining the corporation boundaries, providing for the election of 
Trustees, prescribing their qualifications and duties, and generally clothing 
them as a legislative body, with powers and duties appropriate to municipal 
officers. 

The charter was accepted at an election holden on the day above men- 
tioned, and the following is the roster of town officers who have since served : 

1869 — A. W. Hall, President; M. Weaver, James McFatrich, D. W. 
Hayes and C. Roush, Associates. 

1870— M. Weaver, President ; S. G. Stover, A. H. Stahl, H. G. Fowler 
and William Young. 

1871— M. Weaver, President; H. G. Fowler, A. H. Stahl, William Young 
and Levi Sherman. Z. Stover and George Steckle failed to qualify, and H. 
G. Fowler and M. Weaver were appointed to fill the vacancies. 

1872— H. G. Fowler, President ; W. F. Taylor, P. H. Kaufman, D. W. 
Hayes and Levi Sherman. 

1873— H. G. Fowler, President ; Levi Sherman, D. W. Hayes, P. H. 
Kaufman and I. C. Ralcom. 

1874— H. G. Fowler, President ; Levi Sherman, D. W. Hayes, P. H. 
Kaufman and I. C. Balcom. 

1875 — Same as in 1874. 

1876 — Same board re-elected. 

1877 — Elias Stamm, President ; H. A. Rife, Luther K. Lee, S. Rising 
and Charles Ferrell. 

1878— H. G. Fowler, President; P. H. Kaufman, John Metz, D. W. 
Hayes and Levi Sherman. 

1879 — A. S. Crotzer, President; A. H. Stahl, John Metz, William Corn- 
ing and E. Kailey. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 525 

1880 — John Metz, President ; William Corning, David Young, Miles 
White and F. H. Mealiff. 

The board meets the first Monday evening of each month, in the town 
house, on South Railroad, between Washington and Schuyler streets. The 
building is of frame, used in part as an engine house, and was erected in 1874, 
at an expense of $500 and upward. 

Clerks.— W. W. Dawes, 1869-76; 0. T. P. Steinmetz, 1877; W. W. 
Dawes, 1878 ; Samuel F. Dodds, 1879-80. 

Treasurers. — James McEathron, 1869 ; Daniel Hursey, 1870-75 ; Henry 
Wingart, 1876 ; A. S. Crotzer, 1877 ; Edward F. Fowler, 1878-79 ; Henry 
Wingart, 1880. 

Police Magistrates.— A. W. Hall, 1870 ; J. S. Blodgett, 1874 ; Samuel 
F. Dodds, 1878. 

Between 1870 and 1875, a large emigration, composed of young men and 
their families, to the West, reduced the population to some extent, but their 
absence has since been supplied by others who came in, and becoming citizens 
have aided in contributing to the success of the town. 

The last census gives Lena a population of over 1,500 The town now 
contains one weekly paper, one bank, one hotel and another of brick in progress, 
one opera house, one steam flour-mill, one lumber yard, two elevators, one of 
the largest and finest school buildings in the State, seven church edifices, one 
wagon -factory, six blacksmith-shops, one cooper-shop and forty stores devoted 
to the sale of groceries, drugs, dry goods, hardwares, cigars and the line of 
commodities commercially regarded as staple. 

LENA FIRE COMPANY. 

The village is protected from the " fire-bug " by a hand-engine company 
composed of thirty-five members, supplemented with a chemical engine requir- 
ing the services of ten men in addition. These companies were organized in 
1874. In that year, a hand-engine, together with 800 feet of hose, was pur- 
chased at Canton, 111., for $800 ; the chemical, however, became the property 
of the department two years previous. Since the organization of the company, 
in 1874, 600 feet of hose have been purchased and other expenditures effected, 
making the value of the property at present about $1,500. 

The company is officered by H. F. Perkins, Foreman. 

The chemical is officered by H. M. Dodds, Foreman ; F. McManigal, 
Assistant. The whole is under the control of Henry Wingart, Fire Marshal, 
and Samuel F. Dodds, Assistant. 

The peace of the village is maintained by one town Constable, appointed 
annually by the Board of Trustees. 

SCHOOLS. 

The first school taught within the corporate limits of Lena was in a log 
house belonging to Samuel F. Dodds, which stood in the orchard on the Dodds 
homestead. This was about the year 1849, and Miss Maria Pickard was 
employed as teacher. About twenty scholars responded to the roll-call dur- 
ing her administration, which lasted one year. In 1850, a log school- 
house was put up on what is now known as Franklin street, which served its 
purpose until 1854, when the stone building still standing at the corner of Lena 
and Franklin streets was completed and taken possession of, and, though the 
number of scholars had increased, the force employed to direct their instruction 



526 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

remained the same until years afterward. In 1859, a portion of the Sixth Dis- 
trict, which comprehended Lena, was cut off and added to District No. 8, 
and a schoolhouse erected. It is of stone, two stories high, and cost in 
the neighborhood of $1,000. The number of departments and force of teachers 
were increased from this date. 

In November, 1866, the two districts were united, and have since been 
known as Union District No. 6. In 1868, the present commodious school 
edifice of brick was completed and occupied. In dimensions, the building is 
56x60, four stories high, including the basement, containing six departments 
finished, with the necessary rooms and closets in addition, and cost $20,000. 
The departments embrace first and second primary, first and second interme- 
diate, grammar and high school, requiring the services of seven teachers, and 
necessitating an expenditure of $4,000 for the year closing June 30, 1880. Of 
this, $3,500 is obtained by the levy of a tax on the real and personal property 
listed in the district, and the balance from the State and township, in addition 
to fines assessed and collected for the commission of offenses against the State. 

The schools enjoy an average daily attendance of about 400 pupils, and 
are under the direction of a Board of Trustees, at present composed of W. P. 
Naramore, Joseph Sechler and D. W. Hayes. 

POST OFFICE. 

The first post office established in West Point was called Waddams Grove, 
John Garner, Postmaster, and located near Louisa ; this was some time in 
1837 or 1838, and a year or two later it was removed five miles into Waddams 
Township, when Pells Manny was appointed Postmaster. The next post office 
was established at Howardsville, then on the stage road from Galena to Chicago, 
with Martin Howard as Postmaster. Somewhere about 1845, a new office was 
established at Lena, under the name of Alida, and Samuel F. Dodds appointed 
Postmaster. In 1852, the name of the office was changed to Terre Haute, and 
so continued until 1854, when it was changed to Lena. At that date, the office 
was kept in the residence of Mr. Dodds, and so remained until 1857, when it 
was moved to South Railroad street, and F. Reber appointed Postmaster. 
During his administration the office was again removed to Reber & Dodds' 
Block. In 1861, S. F. Dodds was re-appointed, and served until his death, 
which occurred in May, 1863. The vacancy thus created was supplied by the 
appointment of Mary J. Dodds, widow of deceased. In 1869, J. M. Schermer- 
horn was appointed to the position, and removed the office to Central Block, 
thence to Roush's Block, thence back to the Central Block, where it now is, 
Mr. Schermerhorn remaining in charge. 

S. RISING & CO., BANKERS. 

The business prosperity of the town of Lena is further evidenced by the 
existence of a banking institution, which was established in 1867 at its present 
site, under the firm name of Rising, Smith & Co. The gentlemen composing 
the firm remained in charge until June, 1867, when the name was changed, 
becoming S. Rising & Co., and so continuing until November, 1870, when it 
became u Foil, Corning & Co." Business, which was large and appreciating, 
being transacted principally with farmers and drovers, in the counties of Stephen- 
son and Jo Daviess, was disposed of with profit to the gentlemen directing its 
operation, until February, 1878, when the name of Fall, Corning & Co. was 
retired, and that of S. Rising & Co. substituted, the substitution remaining the 
commercial name at present in force. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 527 

The business is that generally transacted by monetary institutions, and 
aggregates one million annually. 

RELIGIOUS. 

Presbyterian Church. — Early in 1844, the Rev. Elisha Hazzard, came 
into the neighborhood of where Lena now is and commenced a missionary work, 
and, in June of the same year, established what was then known as Waddams 
Grove Presbyterian Church. The society was established at the residence of 
Pells Manny, about three miles northeast of Lena, and was composed of Samuel 
F. Dodds, Mary Jane Dodds, Mr. and Mrs. Lyman Strong, Mrs. Sarah Murry, 
Mr. and Mrs. Hollander, Mr. and Mrs. George Henninger and Benjamin 
Tucker. Samuel F. Dodds and Lyman Strong were Elders, and services were 
held in the residence of Pells Manny and the Montague Schoolhouse, a log 
structure, 18x20, erected in 1839, near the residence of Luman Montague, in 
Waddams Grove. 

Some time in 1847, the first Presbyterian services conducted in Lena were 
held at the residence of Samuel F. Dodds, the Rev. Aratus Kent preaching, 
and in 1850, the organization founded in 1844 was permanently located in 
Lena, though a regular pastor was not obtained until one year subsequently. 
In 1854, the stone schoolhouse on the north side of Lena street was completed, 
and used by the Presbyterian, Baptist and Methodist societies, alternately. 

In 1857, the church and congregation commenced the work of erecting 
their present house of worship, a brick edifice, 35x50 feet, with an audience- 
room above, and a lecture hall on the first floor, which was completed and 
dedicated in October, 1859, at a cost of $3,057.25. Since that date, there 
has been expended on the building for cupola, bell, lecture-room, paper and paint- 
ing, upward of $1,595, making a total cost of church and furniture over 
$4,625. 

The present value of the church property is upward of $5,000. The con- 
gregation numbers not less than seventy-five members, and the following Pastors 
have officiated since its removal to Lena: The Revs. Robert Colston, E. D. 
Willis, W. J. Johnson, J. W. Cunningham, L. M. Gates, E. Scofield, H. G. 
McArthur, J. M. Linn, S. I. McKee, and A. S. Gardiner, the present incum- 
bent. 

Amity Evangelical Lutheran Church — Was organized in the old stone 
schoolhouse of the village on the 14th of March, 1857, with a few members, 
Levi Woodhart and Benjamin Garman, Elders ; George Breaux and Daniel 
Rice, Deacons, and the Rev. E. Fair, Pastor. 

Previous to this date the Rev. G. J. Donmeyer preached occasionally, the 
families of Messrs. Grossman and Weaver composing his audience, and forming 
the nucleus of the present organization. 

When fairly under way, arrangements were completed in that behalf, and 
the present church edifice, the first in the village until subsequent to 1868, was 
erected at a cost of $7,000. It has since undergone extensive repairs, being re- 
furnished, frescoed, carpeted, etc., and will comfortably seat an audience of 
300, though it has, upon special occasions, accommodated 500. The Sabbath 
school connected with the church is one of the best organized and most effi- 
ciently managed in the county, with an average attendance of 125 scholars. 
The church also owns a commodious parsonage adjoining the church and one 
of the most beautiful homes in Lena. Located on the corner of Mason and 
Washington streets, directly opposite the recently completed and very elegant 
public school edifice, near the center of town, and yet free from the annoyances 



528 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

of business, the Lutheran property is one of the most desirable in the county. 

The church enjoys a membership of 150, being a gradual but permanent 
increase since May 24, 1858, when the communion was first administered to 
twenty-four communicants ; is free from debt, and has been under the charge 
of the following Pastors, as far as can be ascertained from the records, which 
are imperfect : The Revs. E. Fair, A. A. Trimper, W. H. Schock, D. L. 
Tressler, G. B. Black, J. W. Tressler, 0. Baird and H. C. Haithcox, the pres- 
ent incumbent. 

St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church. — This congregation was first organ- 
ized during the year 1870, when worshipers were few and dependent upon the 
offices of missionaries resident in adjoining parishes and passing through the 
county. Services were at first conducted in the old schoolhouse, whence a 
removal was subsequently made to the stone building previously used as the 
high school. The congregation remained here until 1872, when the present 
brick church on Lena street was completed, consecrated and occupied, and is 
still in the service. The building is 30x45, one story, and cost a total of 
|2,500. 

Services are held every Sabbath, the Irish under the Rev. F. Horgan, of 
Dublin, occupying the edifice alternately with the Germans, of whom the Rev. 
E. Freligh is the Pastor. The congregations number eighty-five communicants, 
and the property of the church is valued at about $5,000. 

Free Methodist Church. — The Free Methodist society was organized in 
the fall of 1874 with fifteen members, under the pastorate of the Rev. C. W. 
Frink. The congregation worshiped in Fowler's Church, on North Railroad 
street, until 1877, when they removed to the old stone schoolhouse on Lena 
street, where services are still conducted. 

Prior to 1879, the church was attached to the Freeport Circuit, but in that 
year it was assigned to the circuit made up of Lena and Ridott, to which it 
now belongs, and enjoys a membership of twenty worshipers. 

The congregation is gradually increasing in number and influence, and 
contemplates the erection of a house of worship at an early day. At present 
services are held weekly, and preaching once in two weeks by the Rev. Orville 
Frink. 

Methodist Church — One of the oldest congregations in the township, was 
organized at first under the direction of Father McKean as early as 1835-36, 
when the class was made up of less than half a dozen and worship was held in 
the cabins of settlers. In 1850, a class was organized in Holly Grove, and in 
1852 the Lena congregation was established, being connected with the Freeport 
Circuit. At first, services were held in the schoolhouse on the Dodd's property, 
whence a removal was made at various times until 1857, when the present 
church edifice was erected and has since been occupied. The congregation is 
quite numerous, the church property valuable, and the same ministers serving 
Freeport have generally been assigned to Lena. The Rev. Joseph Odgers is 
the Pastor at present occupying the pulpit. 

German Lutheran Church. — This society originally formed a part of the 
Amity Evangelical Lutheran Church, which was organized March 14, 1857, 
and so continued until 1869, when the congregation was divided and the Ger- 
man Lutherans erected the church at present occupied. It is a brick, 35x40, 
handsomely furnished, with accommodations for about 250 worshipers, and 
cost $2,500. 

The Rev. G. J. Donmeyer officiated as Pastor for several years, and was 
succeeded by the Rev. W. Fritch, who is at present in service. The present 




LENA 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 531 

congregation numbers thirty families, and the value of the church property, 
including a parsonage now building, is estimated at $3,500. 

First Baptist Church — Was organized early in the forties, at Yellow 
Creek, under the auspices of the Rev. Mead Bailey, when it was known as the 
Yellow Creek Baptist Church, with a congregation composed of Martin Howard 
and family, Samuel, Marshall and Aaron Bailey, with their families, and John 
Harmon and family. Services were held in private houses until the town of 
Lena was laid out, when the society removed thither and occupied the log school- 
house on the Dodds place, jointly with other denominations. Soon after, meas- 
ures were taken for the erection of a church edifice, which resulted in the 
building of the Baptist Church on Lena street, at a cost of $1,000, which was 
completed and dedicated and has since been occupied. In 1864, the church 
was enlarged and is now one of the neatest religious edifices in Lena. 

The congregation numbers 100 members ; the church property is valued 
at $1,500, and the following Pastors have served in its pulpit : The Revs. Mead 
Bailey, Joshua Ambrose, D. S. Dean, Frederick Bower, I. B. Branch, and F. 
H. Gilbert, now in the service. 

German Methodist Church. — In 1850, the Rev. J. J. Young, a minister 
of the faith, passed through the vicinity of Lena and presented the Gospel to 
the Germans resident thereabouts in their mother tongue. From this begin- 
ning the present society was formed, having been organized in 1852, under the 
direction of the Rev. John Broear, and worshiping in a log cabin belonging to 
a Mr. Killman, about three miles southeast of the town. In 1854, the Rev. 
John Koehler preached in the stone schoolhouse, the first German Methodist 
minister to officiate in Lena. In 1855, H. Rosenstiel, Charles Altenberndt, 
C. Rosenstiel, Frederick Koch and Frederick Luedeke were elected Trustees, 
and in 1856 the Germans built their present church edifice, which was for some 
years the only church in Lena, the Rev. H. Vosshall being the minister. 

The society was poor and owed an indebtedness of $850 on the church, 
which was prevented from being sold through the personal efforts of the trustees. 
Notwithstanding which embargoes, the congregation prospered and is to-day 
independent. The original members were Mr. and Mrs. Rosenstiel, Sr., Mr. 
and Mrs. C. Beine, Mr. and Mrs. F. Luedeke, Mr. and Mrs. F. Koch, and 
Mr. and Mrs. Carl Altenberndt ; the congregation to-day includes sixty mem- 
bers. The value of church property, including a parsonage erected in 1877, is 
$3,500, and the following ministers have accepted calls to the charge within 
the past twenty-eight years : The Revs. John Broear, John Koehler, H. 
Voshall, H. Richter, P. Schaefer, R. Feigenbaum, John Haas, Jacob Schaefer, 
W. Schreiner, F. Schmidt, H. Sauer, P. Hummel, and C. C. Miller, the Pastor 
at present in charge. 

LENA " STAR " 

first set its "light upon a hill," in Lena, on the 4th day of January, 1867. 
At that time, Lena was a thriving town, and recognized as one of the best grain 
and stock markets in this section of the State. The population was a composi- 
tion of energetic, go-ahead business men, alive to the importance of building up 
and sustaining any enterprise having a tendency to enhance values in the 
vicinity. Hence, J. Gishwiller, a native of Pennsylvania, and S. J. Dodds, 
an attorney, of Lena, experienced little difficulty in making a beginning and 
securing 350 subscribers to enable them to accomplish that end. These gentle- 
men purchased a seven-column Washington hand-press, with sufficient body and 
display type to set up a patent inside, seven-column folio, and at once entered 



532 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

upon the duties incident to editing and publishing the Lena Star, in the second 
story of what is now known as "Weaver & Siehler's " Block. The *SWwas 
neutral in politics, and furnished to subscribers for $2 per annum. The partner- 
ship between Gishwiller and Dodd continued until March 1, 1867, when Mr. 
Dodds retired and Gishwiller conducted the enterprise .alone until April 27, 
when he, too, turned a rule, metaphorically speaking, and sold out to J. M. 
Shannon, who assumed editorial and managerial control at once, remaining in 
charge until February 12, 1869. At that date, a financial cloud dimmed for 
the time, the shining rays of the Star, and before a dawn of better days the 
paper was sold under foreclosure proceedings, James S. McCall, editor of the 
Freeport Journal, becoming the purchaser. The management of the Star was 
placed in charge of James W. Newcomer, of Freeport, a practical printer and 
ready writer, who discharged the trust faithfully, and was rewarded by a rapid 
increase in the circulation and advertising patronage obtained. He remained 
in charge nearly nine years, when the present editor, W. W. Lowis, formerly 
editor of the Carroll County Gazette, purchased the material and assumed con- 
trol. Mr. Lowis changed the paper to a five- column quarto, from a neutral to 
an independent paper in politics, reduced the price to $1.50 per annum, and 
otherwise improved its appearance and attractions. The paper is now one of 
the most complete in its equipment and management in the State of Illinois, 
having a bona-fide circulation of 700 copies and a large list of advertisers. It 
is devoted to the building-up of Lena and the surrounding country, and com- 
mands the confidence, good will and support of all who are similarly interested. 

SECRET SOCIETIES. 

Lena Lodge, No. 174, A., F. $• A. M. — Was duly organized October 3, 
1855, although a meeting of those subsequently constituting the charter mem- 
bers was convened on the 25th of the previous July. The members and 
officers then were G. L. Taylor, W. M. ; S. F. Dodds, S. W. ; J. R. Chambers, 
J. W. ; W. Allen, Secretary ; H. Truesdail, Treasurer ; R. Patterson, S. D. ; 
W. R. Goddard, Jr., J. D. ; F. Voight, Tiler. 

Meetings were thereafter held in a building since rented for a term of 
years and fitted up with the equipments and insignia of the order at a great 
expense. The lodge prospered from its organization under the dispensation, 
and now has seventy-four members, officered by S. J. Dodds, W. M. ; J. H. 
Gunsaul, S. W. ; F. A. Darling, J. W. ; W. W. Stahl, Secretary ; John Metz, 
Treasurer ; E. R. Prindle, S. D. ; J. A. Clark, J. D. ; Wyman Roe, Tiler. 

Meetings are cenvened monthly, on the Wednesday evening of the full 
moon, and the lodge property is valued at $500. 

Lena Chapter, No. 105, R. A. M. — Was organized under a dispensation 
granted October 5, 1866, unto ten members, as follows: J. M. Schermerhorn, 
S. F. Dodds, E. H. Shumway, J. R. Berry, Adam Kemper, D. B. Packer, 
Albert Bliss, F. W. Byers, R. M. Clark, F. A. Darling, George Heniger, 
James McFatrich and G. L. Taylor. Of these, J. M. Schermerhorn was 
elected H. P. ; E. H. Shumway, King, and D. B. Packer, Scribe. 

Meetings are held on the evening of the second Tuesday in each month, 
at Masonic Hall, and the Chapter now numbers fifty-three members. 

The present officers are F. A. Darling, H. P. ; W. Corning, King, and 
J. H. Gunsaul, Scribe. 

The property of the society is valued at $1,000. 

Lena Star Lodge, No. 106, I. O. Gr. T. — On Wednesday evening, July 
2, 1879, a number of the citizens of Lena met in the lecture-room of the Pres- 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 533 

byterian Church for the purpose of instituting a regularly chartered Good 
Templars Lodge. After prayer by the Rev. A. S. Gardiner, Mr. Colgrove, of 
Freeport, in whose hands the meeting had been placed, administered the obliga- 
tion to about twenty-five of the forty-one charter members present. The lodge 
was named, at the suggestion of the Rev. Mr. Gardiner, "Lena Star Lodge," 
and the following officers chosen: S. Rising, W. C. T. ; Mrs. Chambers, W. 
V. T.; Theodore W. Clark, W. R. S.; B. McFatrich, W. F. S. ; Miss M. A. 
Smith, W. T. ; F. H. McManigal, W. M. ; N. B. Heth, W. C. ; Miss Mattie 
Hall, W. I. G. ; M. 0. Naramore, W. 0. T. ; W. W. Hall, Lodge Deputy. 

At present the roll of members includes ninety-four names, and meetings 
are held Friday evenings in Frisby's Hall. The present officers are Theodore 
W. Clark, P. W. C. T. ; J. S. Best, W. C. T. ; Miss Mary Knepley, W. V. 
T. ; Miss Mattie Hall, W. R. S. ; J. H. Wright, W. F. S. ; Miss Linnie Smith, 
W. T. ; Leslie Goddard, W. M. ; E. F. Fowler, W. C. ; Miss Mary Smith, W. 
I. G. ; George Lemon, W. 0. G. ; W. W. Hall, Lodge Deputy. 

The lodge property is valuable. 

Lena Lodge, No. 194,, I- 0. 0. F. — Was instituted March 13, 1856, and 
chartered October 17 following, with S. F. Dodds, J. M. Schermerhorn, J. 
Simpson, Daniel Thomas, D. De Graff, John Swarts and J. D. Dewey, mem- 
bers. S. F. Dodds was N. G. ; Daniel Thomas, V. G. ; J. M. Schermerhorn, 
Secretary, and J. Simpson, Treasurer. 

At first, meetings were held in Dodds' Hall, from which a removal was 
made to W. J. Clark's Hall, where the lodge meets weekly on Monday evenings. 

The present membership includes forty -eight of the craft, officered by F. 
P. Byrne as N. G. ; C. W. Grosscup, V. G. ; W. A. Newell, Secretary, and 
John Metz, Treasurer. 

The value of lodge property is stated at $1,200. 

Centennial Encampment, No. 172, I. 0. 0. F. — Was instituted February 
16, 1876, and the charter issued October 10, of the same year, to the following 
members and officers: W. A. Newell, L. K. Lee, John Reeder, S. S. Pauley, 
0. T. P. Steinmetz, Emanuel Kailey and Charles E. Dollenmeyer. 0. T. P. 
Steinmetz, C. P. ; S. S. Pauley, H. P. ; John Reeder, S. W. ; Charles E. Dol- 
lenmeyer, J. W. ; W. A. Newell, Scribe, and Emanuel Kailey, Treasurer. 

The lodge has since increased to twenty members, who convene in the reg- 
ular session on the evenings of the second and fourth Fridays monthly, at 
Clark's Hall. 

The present officers are H. Wingart, C. P. ; J. S. Best, H. P. ; W. W. 
Sisson, S. W.; Thomas Foley., J. W. ; W. A. Newell, Scribe, and John Metz, 
Treasurer. 

The value of encampment property is quoted at $500. 

MANUFACTURES. 

Lena Steam Mills — Located at the corner of Schuyler and Lena streets, 
are the oldest in the village and among the most extensive in this part of the 
State. The business was established in 1855, by Schermerhorn & Munns, 
when the present edifice was erected. It is of brick, three stories high, exclu- 
sive of the basement, and cost, with the additions and furniture, $11,000. 
These consist of an engine-house, 16x30, supplied with an engine of thirty-five 
horse power, and a grist-room 12x40. The mill has three run of buhrs, and, when 
run to its full capacity, can grind 480 bushels of wheat every twenty-four 
hours. 



534 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

In time, Messrs. Schermerhorn & Munns disposed of the property to J. S. 
Soule, who in turn sold it to J. P. Ring, and, after subsequent transfers, it came 
into the possession of A. H. Stahl, the present owner, who paid therefor, 
^14,000. 

He employs six hands, and does a business of $8,000 per annum. 

Shannons Carriage Works — Located on Schuyler, between Lena and Rail- 
road streets, were established February 4, 1874, by A. Shannon and A. 
Weaver at their present site. The year following, additions and improvements 
were made to their establishment, which have been increased each year since, 
until now, Messrs. S. & W. have one of the most complete repositories in 
Northern Illinois. 

Their line of manufacture embraces all qualities and grades of vehicles, 
from a track skeleton to a hearse, and from the ordinary " democrat to a coach. 
In the building of these, the firm employ skilled labor only, use the best 
materials and plans, originating with themselves. They have patented a sliding- 
seat wagon, and the work turned out is of a well-proportioned and durable 
character. 

As a result, their stock is in constant demand, and, as none of it is shipped 
elsewhere for sale, purchases are made at the shop by dealers and others from a 
distance. 

The firm employ a force of nine hands at a weekly compensation of $141, 
and do an annual business, estimated at $25,000. 

Lena Foundry — Established in 1867 by J. McCulloch & Son, on Grant, 
between Center and Schuyler streets, where for thirteen years they have con- 
ducted a successful trade in all parts of the country, and acquired a reputation 
for responsibility and character. Their line of manufacture comprehends every 
variety of moldings, in addition to leather-rollers, boot-crimpers, feed-cookers, 
etc., one hundred of each being turned out annually and shipped to various 
points in Northern Illinois, Iowa and Wisconsin. In addition to the branches 
cited, the firm does a large jobbing and repair work, the business in this and the 
general class of work completed aggregating $10,000 per annum, and requiring 
the services of five hands at a weekly compensation of $60. 

The investment represents a valuation of $6,000. 

ELEVATORS. 

Central Elevator — Owned and conducted by P. H. Kaufman, is located 
on South Railroad street, opposite the depot of the Illinois Central road, where 
the buildings were erected, in 1875, at a cost of $4,000. The premises consist 
of a main building, 40x60, three stories high, with an addition 24x38, one and 
a half stories high, and containing an engine of twenty-five horse-power by 
which the machinery is operated. 

The elevator has capacity for 20,000 bushels of grain, and during the 
year 1879 a total of 345,738 bushels of oats, wheat, corn, rye and barley, were 
handled by the management, for which was paid $98,530.91, in addition to 
$26,000 paid for clover-seed and $25,838 for bags. 

Lena Elevator — Located on Schuyler street contiguous to the track of the 
Illinois Central road, was erected in 1868, by Moses Weaver, at' a co$ of $10,- 
000, and has a capacity for 25,000 bushels of grain. Mr. Weaver conducted 
the business for a number of years, but in 1873 John Reeder purchased the 
enterprise for $5,000, and still controls the establishment. 

During the year 1879, 238,931 bushels of grain passed the hands of the 
proprietor, requiring the outlay of $71,290, and adding materially to the pros- 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 535 

perity of the town of Lena. The present year it is anticipated the business 
will be materially greater. 

MILITARY. 

Lena is the headquarters of Company H, Third Regiment Illinois Na- 
tional Guards, organized in 1877. The company is made up of fifty-two mus- 
kets, ofiicered by George H. Sherry, Captain, F. M. Halliday and George 
Houser, Lieutenants, with the usual complement of Sergeants and Corporals. 
Drill-meetings are held once a month. 

OPERA HOUSE, 

located on South Railroad, between Schuyler and Center streets, was erected 
by F. E. Beine, in 1878, at a cost of $7,500. The premises are of brick, two 
stories high, and finished in a handsome style of architecture. The ground 
floor is devoted to the occupation of stores, while the second story is appropri- 
ated to the uses of offices and the opera house auditorium. This latter is about 
fifty feet square, supplied with a stage, and can comfortably accommodate an 
audience of five hundred. The building is an ornament to the town, and its 
uses a convenience to residents, public speakers, lecturers, the strolling player, 
and all with a stock in trade consisting of genius or wit. 

CEMETERY, 

consisting of four acres, was laid out by S. F. Dodds in 1854, and, though 
burials took place from that date to the time when it was transferred to the village, 
July 30, 1866, no cemetery organization was perfected. It is located in the 
southern part of the village, handsomely laid out and platted, decorated with 
evergreens and ornamental shrubbery, and contains some decidedly artistic 
monuments. The cemetery property contains an aggregate of 368 lots, almost 
wholly taken up, and is under the charge of the Village Trustees. 

LENA CATHOLIC CEMETERY, 

without the limits of, and a short distance from, the northwestern portion 
of the village, embraces three acres, and was laid out and dedicated in May, 
1880. It contains upward of 200 lots, but few interments have as yet been 
made. 

WADDAMS GROVE, 

a station on the Illinois Central road, four miles west of Lena, was estab- 
lished in 1874. It is a quiet settlement, containing a Methodist Church, school 
and other buildings peculiar to an inland town of measured resources ; also a 
cheese factory, started by F. S. Farley. As a shipping-point for grain and 
some other articles of export, it promises, in future years, to attain some degree 
of importance. 

BUCKEYE TOWNSHIP. 

Previous to the adoption of the act empowering the incorporation of town- 
ships, Buckeye Township was known as Center Precinct, which comprehended 
the territory that has since been subdivided into Buckeye, Dakota, Harlem 
and Lancaster Townships. This was the case as late as August, 1838, for, 
on the 6th of that month, an election was held at the house of Josiah Clingman, 
in Center Precinct, for State officers, at which John Edwards received twenty- 
five votes for Governor, and Stephen A. Douglas seven votes for Congress ; Ira 



536 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

Jones, Levi Lewis and G. W. Clingman were Judges, and Thompson Wilcoxon 
and Joseph Green, Clerks. 

The earliest settlement made in the present township of which there are any 
data to deduce conclusions, was during the year 1835. In the spring, John 
Goddard came to the southern portion of the township, and, in the fall of the 
same year, David Jones and Levi Lucas came, the former making claim to a 
large tract of land contiguous to what is now known as Buckeye Center, where 
he built a cabin and began housekeeping. There was little beyond the hope 
of what the future might give birth to to encourage the lonely lives of these 
pioneers, yet they accepted the gauge of life as they found it, and survived to 
realize many of the promises reserved for after years. In addition to these, 
George Trotter, Richard Parriott and Henry and William Hollenback came 
about this time. 

In 1836, the roster of inhabitants was increased by the arrival of a few 
families, including William Robey, who had made a claim there the previous 
year, Jehu Pile, Andrew St. John, Ira, Job and Daniel Holly and others. 
Parrott and Pile located near the present town of Cedarville, while the balance 
entered claims in the northwestern part of the township. 

In 1837, the influx of population was somewhat greater. Among those 
who established themselves in Buckeye that year were Dr. Thomas Van Valzah, 
J. Tharp, G. W. Clingman, Jackson Richart, Lazarus Snyder, Jacob S. Brown, 
Joseph Green, and some few more. Dr. Van Valzah purchased the mill 
claim of John Goddard and Barton Jones, and built what has since been 
known as the Cedar Creek Mills, also a log cabin for his family. The mill 
was started in November, 1837, John Fisher turning the bolt, and so con- 
tinuing until the 1st of January, 1838. In that year, a sudden rise in the 
creek overflowed and temporarily destroyed the dam, when Fisher's occupation 
was gone, the power thereafter being furnished by the medium since employed. 

In the month of May, 1837, occurred the first death in the township, being 
that of Richard Parriott, Sr. Robert Jones and A. Richart laid him out after 
death, and he was buried near Buckeye Center in a coffin fashioned by Robert 
Jones, the Rev. Mr. Harcott officiating at the grave. 

Among those who came in 1838, was James McGhee, Adrian Lucas and 
others, and it was in this year that the first marriage known to have taken 
place in Buckeye was recorded. Robert Jones and Mary Herlacher were 
united in indissoluble bonds at the residence of Dr. Van Valzah, the Rev. Mr. 
McKean being the clergyman. In those days, pretentious weddings, with the 
accompaniments of bridal presents, tours, etc., were unknown factors of social 
life, and not generally indulged. The bridegroom escorted his wife to the 
cabin he had erected, as above mentioned, and began his dual existence with- 
out the accessories thereto now deemed indispensable to prosperity and happi- 
ness. On the 23d of June following, David Jones was born to the couple, the 
first birth of record in the township. John Murdaugh and Benjamin Bennett 
were also among the arrivals this year. 

In 1840, the population began once more to increase. The Pottawatomies 
and Winnebagoes still flourished in the vicinity, and had their camp at the 
mouth of Richland Creek ; but their presence deterred no one from venturing 
into the neighborhood and setting up a home. J. B. Clingman came this year, 
as did also Philip Reitzell and George Reitzell, who settled near where Buena 
Vista now is ; Henry Wohllford, John Fryebarger, Richard Parriott, Jr., Frank- 
lin Scott, George Ilgen, who afterward laid out Cedarville, a man named Eddy, 
etc. Indeed, 1840, was the golden year of Buckeye Township, so far as the 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 537 

increase in population and development of resources were concerned. Farms 
were opened, homes prepared, and, notwithstanding the "hard life" that was 
imposed upon settlers, the county and township began to fill up quite rapidly. 

In those primitive times, the inhabitants depended mainly upon their guns, 
and skill in the use, for meat, which was obtained from the herds of deer and 
flocks of prairie chickens which were to be found in the timber. Flour was 
almost an unknown quantity, and until mills were erected on water-courses the 
settlers were obliged to obtain that commodity either at Galena or Wolf Creek. 
When this was impossible, they scraped corn on what were known as " gritters," 
by which a coarse-grained meal was obtained, from which "dodgers" were 
baked, and the pangs of hunger mitigated. 

Soon after 1840, the conveniences of life became more accessible. The 
rough, unsatisfactory character of the mills gave place to handsome buildings and 
improved machinery. The population increased annually, and, by the time that 
Cedarville was laid out, numbered many families, with the names of which the 
earlier comers were not familiar. The township and its towns are in a pros- 
perous condition, with a population estimated at about 1,800, and with promise 
of future wealth and usefulness. 

CEDARVILLE, 

the chief town in Buckeye Township, and a point presenting many attract- 
ive features for residence and business purposes, is located six miles north of 
Freeport, and contiguous to the line dividing Buckeye from Harlem and Lan- 
caster Townships. Its situation is singularly beautiful, presenting every variety 
of landscape to the artistic eye, without the quality of sameness which palls by 
its very monotony. Cedar Creek courses an uneven and eccentric way to the 
east, rugged hills rise in prominence to the north, while, on the east and west, 
orchards, meadows and fields flowing with ripening grain, are sights which 
greet the eye of the visitor in that perfect of perfect months, laughing June. 

When the earlier settlers of what was at first known as Center Precinct 
made their advent into future Buckeye Township, they, as a rule, tarried about 
future Cedarville, not only impressed with the beauty of the scenery, but the ad- 
vantages it then presented for all desirous of establishing a home. Notwithstanding 
these patent advantages the pioneer pilgrims into this part of Stephenson 
County, tarried not, but pursued their wanderings in the van of those compet- 
ing with the Star of Empire and Greeley's young man, for a claim further 
west, and it was not until 1837 that any mbvement was inaugurated, which 
finally culminated, though not until twelve years after, in the surveying and 
laying-out of the present town. In that year, Dr. Thomas Van Valzah, as has 
already been stated, established himself in Center Precinct, raised a log cabin 
for the protection of his growing family, built a saw-mill and laid the foundation 
for the abundance of thrift to-day visible to the traveler, as also the resident, 
in all directions. The old mill has passed through a varied experience since 
those days of primitive wants and unpretentious inhabitants, and still, in 
parts, stands a wreck of its former magnificence, at a distance from the spot 
whereon its birth was celebrated. The territory allotted to its occupation, long 
since yielded possession to the Cedarville mills, revised and corrected editions 
of the saw and grist mills, with which Dr. Van Valzah, nearly half a century, 
ago, sought patronage in contributing to the necessities as also the luxuries of 
his neighbors. 

In 1849, George Ilgen, an early settler in the township, first conceived the 
idea of establishing the present town of Cedarville. He had emigrated to the 



538 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

West years before from Pennsylvania, and made claim to a quarter-section of 
land, on which the town, in part, now stands, but removed to a distant part of 
the county and engaged in farming. About the year mentioned, he procured 
a survey of the town site, laid off streets, town lots and other landed appur- 
tenances appropriate to the object, and waited the rush of purchasers of his realty. 
Marcus Montelius officiated as surveyor, and, beyond the log cabin and mill 
erected bv Dr. Van Valzah, no other edifices were to be] seen in the vicinity. 
For some "months the tide of emigration failed to realize his possibly too san- 
guine expectations, and it was not for two years thereafter that buildings began 
to add the spice of variety to the scenes of woodland and prairie visible on all 
sides. Some time in 1850, James Canfield established a brick-kiln two miles 
west of the prospective village, and from this date improvements proved other 
than exceptions. 

Samuel Sutherland built a brick house on the main street which still 
stands, being occupied as the store of Richart & Son, also the post office. 
Francis Knauss put up a frame residence and tin-shop ; James Benson, a brick 
store, and Jacob Latshaw, building a tavern, enacted the role of the village boni- 
face. It should be observed that the first cabin covered for occupation within 
the precincts of the town site, was that finished and occupied by George Sey- 
ler. David Clements erected a brick house along in 1851, as also did Dr. 
Bucher, (the latter still standing opposite the post office), and lived there for 
years, his widow now occupying the premises. During the years 1850-52, im- 
provement was rapid, but after these years there was a falling-off, no marked 
effort being made to render the village either attractive or populous. In 1854, 
the handsome private residence of John H. Addams was erected, and in 1858, 
the mill owned by the same gentleman. 

There are four churches — the Methodist, completed in 1849, of brick ; the 
German Reformed and Lutheran, in 1854, also of brick ; the Evangelical, of 
brick, in 1859, and the Presbyterian, a handsome frame with an attractive and 
well-proportioned steeple, in 1876. 

In 1878, improvements began to appear again and prosperity to once more 
"boom." J. W. Henney & Co. began the manufacture of carriages in a large 
frame warehouse occupying a prominent corner in the eastern portion of the 
town, and Reel & Seyler put up a commodious establishment north of Henney's 
carriage depot for the manufacture of middings purifiers. Since that date, 
however, improvements have hardly kept pace with the times ; the village 
remaining a quiet, prosperous, attractive resort, presenting very few, if any, of 
the features which entice with the glare and dissipation of her more populous 
neighbors, yet furnishing all the inducements for health and modest ambition 
to be found in numberless villages which dot the landscape of Northern 
Illinois. 

The school system in force is the same as has obtained throughout the 
county, affording a complete and ready means for obtaining an education sub- 
stantial and comprehensive; the religious iuterests are large and generously 
supported ; the manufacturing establishments afford employment to a number 
of laborers, and the surrounding country pays a liberal tribute to the mainte- 
nance of its commercial and other interests. 

Cedarville contains . a population estimated at 400, and has not yet been 
incorporated, being under the form of government appropriated to township 
organizations. 

The cause of education found expression in Buckeye long before the metes 
and bounds of that township had been legally denned. A school was opened 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 539 

three miles northeast of Cedarville in 1836, but it was not until ten years later 
that the town itself succeeded in providing the young idea with comfortable 
accommodations wherein to pursue knowledge, unattended by the difficulties 
which invariably accompany every initial effort in that behalf. 

In 1846, subscriptions were made for the organization of a school, and the 
erection of a building, the latter to be located near the burying-ground. The 
efforts primarily undertaken were far from encouraging, but finally these suc- 
ceeded through the influence and patronage of the Clingmans, John H. Addams 
and other enterprising residents, and the schoolhouse, a one-story frame, 20x30, 
was completed and ready for service. 

A Mr. Chadwick, now residing in La Salle, and Miss Julia Putnam were 
the first teachers who sought to elevate the youthful generation of scholars com- 
ing from far and near to partake of the mental pabulum furnished in those days. 
Among these were George, Mary and Caroline Clingman, the Young children, 
the Treastor children, Wynkoops juniors, and many others whose names 
have been forgotten by the limited number who were familiar therewith thirty- 
four years ago. This school was operated with gratifying success until 1853. 
By that time, the daily attendance became so numerous as to necessitate larger 
quarters, and the basement of the Lutheran Church, then completed, and await- 
ing the erection of the superstructure, was obtained, and used for school pur- 
poses being so used until 1855. 

Soon after taking possession of the last-named quarters, the School Direct- 
ors decided upon building the present brick edifice, and inaugurated measures 
looking to that end. Their first effort was directed toward the obtaining of 
funds, which were secured by the levy of a tax on resources not realized, that 
is, by anticipating the tax for schools due two years from that time. This was 
accomplished without opposition, and $2,000 rewarded this extra-legal proceed- 
ing. With the amount thus obtained, the brick building since occupied, being 
55x30, and two stories high, was completed and turned over for use in 1855, 
the lower room being reserved for school uses, while the upper part was used 
as a public hall. In 1857 the hall was reconstructed and fitted up for a pri- 
vate school, taught by Miss Gorham, since married to Col. H. C. Forbes, who 
remained in charge until 1865, when she gave place to a successor, who contin- 
ued the guardian of ambitious youth for a brief period, when the private venture 
was abandoned, and the entire building opened to public patronage. This is 
now known as District School No. 5, furnishing a good common-school educa- 
tion to an average daily attendance of ninety pupils, and is governed by a Board 
of Directors, consisting of J. H. Addams, Joseph P. Reel and Jacob Sill. Two 
teachers are employed at an annual cost of $500, which is obtained by taxation, 
and the school property represents a valuation of about $2,500. 

RELIGIOUS. 

Methodist Church. — The followers of Wesley first manifested their pres- 
ence in Buckeye Township as early as 1839, and were composed of the fami- 
lies of residents who have since been included among the most substantial and 
enterprising of those who have materially contributed to the building-up of the 
county and the State. These comprehended Josiah Clingman and family, G. 
W. Clingman and family, Barton and Ira Jones and families, William Robey 
and family, A. K. Richart and others. 

Prior to 1849, the communicants were dependent upon the visits of cir- 
cuit riders, and worshiped in the log schoolhouse near the branch, at private 
houses, and such other points as convenience or necessity dictated. 



540 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

In 1849, the Methodist Church at Cedarville was commenced, and com- 
pleted in 1850, since when the pious residents of the township have rejoiced in 
a local habitation, as also name. The edifice is of brick, one story high, 
35x40, and, though completed in 1850, was not ready for use until a year later, 
when the dedicatory services were held and the auditorium formally opened. 

Its cost is stated to have been nearly $1,400, and services are held on 
alternate Sundays, the Rev. H. Wells, Pastor, officiating, dividing his labors 
between the congregations of Cedarville and Dakota. 

The congregation is stated at about fifty families, and the value of the 
church property at $1,500. 

The Presbyterian Church — Of Cedarville, was organized in 1872, with 
John Coates, Pascal and Mrs. Wright, Simon Yerger, John Thomas, Nancy 
a,nd Elizabeth Boles, George Thompson and James Wilson as charter members. 

Immediately upon the organization being perfected, the association pro- 
cured accommodation in the Methodist Church for worship, remaining there for 
two years, when a move was made to the Lutheran Church, which was 
occupied conjointly with the Lutherans for a similar period. In 1876, it 
was decided to erect a church for the sect, and the congregation labored so 
effectively that before the year closed the present handsome structure was 
completed, at a cost of $2,600, and taken possession of. The edifice is com- 
modious, built of frame, and by far the most attractive church, architecturally 
speaking, to be seen in the village. 

The following Pastors have officiated since the society was founded : The 
Revs. A. March and E. Ross, 1872 ; C. Elliott, 1873, after which, and until 
1875, transient ministers filled the pulpit ; L. Mitchell, 1875 ; John Irwin, 
the present incumbent, 1879. 

The communicants number fifteen, and the church property is valued at 
$2,500. 

Evangelical Association. — This religious organization was established in 
Buckeye at an early day, where it has increased in numbers and influence in a 
remarkable degree. Prior to 1856, the class worshiped in the schoolhouse 
and at the residences of members, prominent among whom were the families of 
Benjamin Hess, Christine Auman, David Neidigh, Benjamin Levan, Robert 
Sedam, William Vore, Henry Mark, Jacob Sills and others. In 1856, the 
needs of the society for a house of worship influenced the appointment of a 
committee of arrangements and preparations to be made in that behalf. Lots were 
purchased in the southeastern part of town, of Sophia Otto and George Ilgen, 
contracts concluded for labor on the church proper, and the edifice erected of 
brick, during 1856. It is a handsome building 40x50, appropriately furnished, 
supplied with an organ, and cost, ready for occupation, $3,000. 

The first services, it is believed, were conducted by the Rev. Levi Tobias, 
who remained in charge some years, and has been succeeded at intervals by the 
following Pastors : The Revs. Joseph Snell, H. Messner, A. Swartz, C. G. 
Kleinicht, David Kramer, and W. W. Shuler, the present incumbent. 

The congregation numbers 150 members, and the church property is valued 
at $2,000. 

Lutheran and Reform Church — Was organized by the Lutherans on the 
11th of October, 1850, with fifteen members. Services were held by the 
Lutherans and German Reformed congregations, jointly, in the schoolhouse in 
Cedarville, until about 1852, when the present church edifice was contracted 
for. It was completed during the same year and occupied, but its formal dedi- 
cation was postponed until some years later. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 541 

The church is of brick, 40x55, handsomely furnished throughout, supplied 
with an organ, and cost, when completed ready for occupancy, $3,000. 

The following Lutheran Pastors have officiated since the church was first 
established : The Revs. G. J. Donmeyer, E. Miller, J. Stoll, A. B. Niddles- 
warth and B. F. Pugh. The congregation at present numbers thirty members. 

Services are held alternately in the church by the German Reformed con- 
gregation, led by the Rev. Mr. Shimpf, of Orangeville. 

Cedarville Cemetery Association — Was incorporated July 14, 1855, by 
M. Montelius, John H. Addams, Josiah Clingman, Peter Woodring and John 
Wilson, for the purpose of purchasing and caring for lands, etc., for the burial 
of the dead. The association at once organized by the election of Josiah Cling- 
man, President, with John H. Addams as Secretary and Treasurer. Three 
acres of ground were procured, which were surveyed, platted and divided into 
lots, intersected by avenues at regular intervals. The plat was approved and 
recorded by the Board of Supervisors at the meeting of that body, in March, 
1859, and is now under a board of officers, of which Jackson Richart is Presi- 
dent, and John H. Addams, Secretary and Treasurer. The grounds are hand- 
somely laid out, ornamented with varieties of forest trees, shrubberies and flowers, 
and contain a number of elaborately finished monuments. 

MANUFACTORIES. 

Purifier Manufactory. — The invention of a middlings purifier, of superior 
excellence, is of recent date, and is due to the genius of Joseph P. Reel, a resi- 
dent of Cedarville, and head of the firm of Reel & Seyler. In 1877, these 
gentlemen erected a building on Main street, and, having perfected the patent, 
began to manufacture the machine, which is rapidly attaining an extensive 
demand both in America and Europe. 

The building cost $1,100 to finish, wherein the firm employ six hands, at 
a weekly compensation of $60 ; turn out one hundred machines annually, and 
do a business of $30,000 per year. 

McCammon s Carriage Factory. — This enterprise is of recent date, and 
was established by J. B. McCammon, April 1, 1880, in the premises formerly 
occupied by J. W. Henney & Co., who removed to Freeport, thus affording an 
opportunity for enterprise and industry to build up a large business. Mr. 
McCammon employs five hands, at a weekly cost of $35, and will do a business 
this year (1880) of $10,000. His manufacture includes every variety of buggy, 
spring and lumber wagons. 

Carriage Factory of John Shaffer. — Established in 1859, in Cedarville. 
During the year 1875, Mr. Shaffer purchased the shop of J. W. Henney, and 
has constantly done a large and annually increasing business. 

He now employs six hands, at a weekly expense of $53, and turns out a 
total of sixty vehicles per annum. 

Cedarville Flour Mills — Among the oldest establishments of the kind in 
the county, owe their origin to Dr. Thomas Van Valzah, who put up a saw- 
mill' near the site of the present building, in 1837. The affair was of the sim- 
plest pattern, and during the following year he increased his responsibilities by 
the addition of a grist-mill, supplied with one run of buhrs and a pair of 
" choppers." Dr. Van Valzah retained control until 1840, when he sold to 
David Neidigh, who, in turn, disposed of the property to Conrad Epley and 
John W. Shuey. These gentlemen held the title until 1844, when it became 
vested in J. H. Addams for a consideration of $4,400. In 1846, Mr. Addams 
rebuilt the mill, added two run of stone and otherwise improved the venture at 



542 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

a cost of $4,000. These were operated until 1858, when the present mill sup- 
plied the place of its pioneer predecessor, under the direction of Mr. Addams, 
and still remains. The building is of frame, three stories high, 36x54, sup- 
plied with three run of stones, and cost, complete, $10,000. It has capacity of 
turning out 100 barrels of flour daily, and the investment represents a valuation 
of $15,000. 

MISCELLANEOUS. 

Cedar ville Library. — As already stated, this library was established thirty- 
four years ago, when the village of Cedarville was known as Cedar Creek Mills, 
and when its patrons, if less numerous, were more choice in their selections than 
the reading public of to-day. 

The association was organized early in the spring of 1846, and placed 
under a Board of Trustees, consisting of the following-named gentlemen : John 
H. Addams, A. B. Clingman, A. W. Lucas, Josiah Clingman and William 
Irvin. In May of that year, the purchase of books was commenced and the 
same placed on shelves in a room in the residence of John H. Addams, accessi- 
ble to all who desired to avail themselves of the privileges thus afforded, which 
are still continued on the spot of their origin. The collection is made up of 
standard works, including those of Gibbon, Macauley, Prescott, Hume, etc., 
history being the basis, and comparatively little of a character calculated to 
entertain without improving. 

The library, which has been a source of infinite pleasure and instruction 
to the residents of Cedarville and vicinity, is still in active operation, with a 
large number of volumes waiting the requisition of patrons to contribute to their 
edification. 

Independent Band of Cedarville — A musical association organized on 
the 8th of July, 1873, with the following members and officers: O. P. Crom- 
ley, O. P. Wright, Ashley Barber, John Wright, John W. Henney. J. 
B. McCammon, Charles Rockey, E. J. Benethum, Samuel Barber, John 
Oswald and W. M. Clingman ; George W. Barber, President ; A. W. Tem- 
pleton, Secretary, and Henry Richart, Treasurer. 

These members furnish instrumental music on all occasions, when their 
services are required, and meet for practice on Monday and Thursday evenings. 

The present officers are Henry Richart, President ; George W. Barber, 
Leader ; J. B. McCammon, Secretary, and W. M. Clingman, Treasurer. 

The value of society property is stated at $406. 

Post Office. — The first post office established in the village was located at 
Cedar Creek Mills, about 1841 or 1842, with George Reitzell as Postmaster. 
He was succeeded, it is thought, by William Irvin, who was followed by Robert 
Sedam, Jonathan Sills and Jackson Richart. The latter was appointed in 
1856, and still serves the people. 



BUCKEYE CENTER. * 

Buckeye Center is located three miles north of Cedarville and the seat of 
the town house, also an Evangelical Church, one of the oldest in the county, 
having been erected in 1849. The congregation was at one time quite exten- 
sive, but is to-day limited to thirty members. The Rev. J. D. Shuler occupies 
the pulpit every other Sunday, alternately with the Rev. Mr. Schaffle. 



HISTORY OF, STEPHENSON COUNTY. 543 



BUENA VISTA. 



Buena Vista, a town of about 125 inhabitants, is located on Richland 
Creek, in the extreme western portion of the township, eleven miles from Free- 
port, and three miles from the line dividing Illinois and Wisconsin. The town 
was platted September 19, 1852, out of 40 acres of land contributed by 
Philip Reitzell, Marcus Montelius acting as surveyor. At that time, the 
county was but imperfectly settled, and lots in Buena Vista were not in 
general demand. Along in 1856, lots became marketable commodities, and 
were sold to William H. Hoff, Lewis Coppersmith, Thomas Strahorn and 
others. From that date, the rush of purchasers has never been " boom- 
ing, " and Buena Vista remains to-day an inland county town without much to 
attract or discourage the visitor or speculator. 

The school facilities are ample, but there is no church in the village, the 
residents attending service at the Bellevue Church, one and a-half miles east 
of the town. 

Whitehall Mills — Grist and saw, were erected as early as 1839 or 1840, 
by Philip Reitzell, though the saw-mill had been built by Ezra Gillett. Mr. R. 
died in 1852, when Buena Vista was laid out, and his sons succeeded to the 
management of the mill business. They operated the business until 1869, 
when the mill property was sold under foreclosure proceedings to the North- 
western Life Insurance Company, for $22,000. In 1870, Jacob Schatczell 
and Jacob Rumel purchased the investment and sold it in turn to Samuel 
Wagner, who sold to Jerry Wohlfort, the present owner, for about $18,000. 

The mill is of frame, three stories high, 50x66, with three run of buhrs 
and capacity for 100 barrels of flour per day. When Schatczell & Rumel took 
possession, they tore down the old saw-mill and rebuilt the same at some distance 
north of the grist-mill. The mill is furnished with an upright saw, with rip 
and other saws, enabling the present owners to turn out a large quantity of 
building material annually. 

Both mills are moved by water-power obtained from Richland Creek. 



WADDAMS TOWNSHIP, 

one of the northern townships of Stephenson County, was first surveyed, 
according to information derived from the proverbial oldest inhabitants, by 
William Hamilton, son of the noted Federalist who met his death at the hands 
of Aaron Burr. This was early in the thirties. Subsequently, the land sur- 
veyed by Hamilton was subdivided into sections, and, after the county was set 
apart, Levi Robey, Erastus Torrey and Robert Foster laid it off into 
townships and christened the territory included in " Waddams." It was 
named for William Waddams, one of the earliest settlers in this portion of the 
State, is six miles square and contains a large area of cultivated acres. The 
land is prairie and rolling, highly fertile, and watered by the Pecatonica and 
numerous creeks and rivulets. 

On the 21st of November, 1834, William Robey, accompanied by his fam- 
ily, which consisted of a wife, Levi Robey and wife, John Robey, William W. 
Robey, Thomas L. Robey, Francis A. Robey, Elizabeth and Mary Robey, 
came into Illinois from Portsmouth, Ohio, and settled at Brewster's Ferry, near 
the present town of Winslow. On St. Valentine's Day, 1835, Levi Robey and 
wife removed to the present town of Waddams, locating at a point on the bank 



544 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

of the Pecatonica half a mile northeast of his present residence. The town- 
ship was then a "howling " wilderness, inhabited by Indians and wild beasts, 
with no other white person in the vicinity. Mr. Robey was the first to settle 
in the township. His neighbors consisted of the balance of the family left at 
Brewster's Ferry ; John Dixon, who kept a ferry thirty-five miles distant, on 
Rock River ; a man named Kent, liying near the present city of Rockford ; Will- 
iam Waddams, seven miles west, and a man named Mack, who had married a 
squaw and was k ' keeping house " near the mouth of the river. 

Mr. Robey entered claim to a quarter-section of land at the point above 
designated, and built a log hut, wherein he resided for many years after the tide 
of emigration had set in and contributed additions to the population. 

Later in the spring of the same year, Nelson Wait, brother-in-law of Mr. 
Robey, joined the latter, took up ground and began its clearing ; and during 
1835 the number of inhabitants was further increased by the arrival of Hub- 
bard Graves and wife, Charles Gappen, Abija Watson, John and Thomas 
Baker and William Willis, who distributed themselves over the township and 
made the beginning of what to-day is one of the most productive and profitably 
cultivated sections in the county. In those days, the same privations which 
settlers elsewhere were subjected to were the portion of pioneers in Waddams. 
Their mail and supplies were procured at Galena, and to obtain meal, grits or 
flour, compelled a journey to the mill at Wolf Creek, consuming two, and oftener 
three, days. But the fertility of the soil and the industry and enterprise of 
the inhabitants supplied many comforts the absence of these qualities would 
have rendered it impossible to obtain, and the long winter nights were thereby 
rendered more enjoyable than frequently falls to the lot of early settlers to ex- 
perience. With the return of spring, out-door work was resumed, and the en- 
deavor made to increase the acreage of cultivation for future benefits. 

In 1836, Lydia Wait removed from Ohio to Waddams with her family, 
consisting of Asa, Maria and Fidelia, and settled on the northern part of Wad- 
dams. This venturesome lady has long since paid the tribute of mortality ; but 
her son, Asa, still lives at the old homestead. Thomas Hawkins, John Boy- 
ington, N. Phillips, John Lobdell, Pells Manny, Lewis Grigsby, Barney Stow- 
ell, a man named Velie and Nicholas Marcellus came about that time also. In 
fact, Waddams began to be thickly settled from 1835. New-comers were wel- 
comed ; the advantages offered in a productive soil and hospitable climate 
attracted a generous patronage, composed of men of substantial character, ready 
to encounter difficulties, and to avail themselves of opportunities. Among those 
who came during 1836 was John Dennison, who emigrated from Wisconsin. 
He made claim to 1,000 acres, on which the present town of New Pennsylvania 
is in part located. 

From this date on, Waddams was more rapidly settled than previously, and 
the country thoroughly cultivated. 

The first birth was William A. Robey, son of " Uncle" Levi Robey, the 
oldest living settler in the county, who was born September 21, 1836. 

NEW PENNSYLVANIA. 

The only town of importance in Waddams, as already stated, owes its origin 
to John Dennison, a Wisconsin agriculturist, who made claim to one thousand 
acres on the east bank of the Pecatonica River, for town purposes. He came 
to the county in the spring of 1836, and erected a saw-mill above the grove, 
which he operated in conjunction with John Vanzant, and which was until recent 
years a landmark of early days. In 1837, Dennison & Vanzant laid off the 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 545- 

tract into town lots, the latter acting as surveyor, and made other improvements 
as a means of attracting purchasers. In the spring of 1838, Robert McConnell 
purchased the title of D. & V., and named the prospective town " McCon- 
nell's Grove," since when it has been known under that title, " Bobtown,"" 
and finally, New Pennsylvania. A storehouse was put up the same year, by 
McConnell, stocked with goods from Galena, and maintained as a trading 
depot long after the promise of New Pennsylvania becoming a city had gone 
glimmering. The tract was finally sold to the Illinois Central Railroad Com- 
pany, and, after that corporation had exhausted the supply of timber available 
for fuel and building purposes, it was disposed of to John Kennedy. He sold 
lots and tracts to purchasers, including John Ault, Lewis G. Reed, Charles 
Webster, George Buck and others, who came to the country about the year 
1855, when emigration was quite general to the West. 

To-day, the town of New Pennsylvania has a population of about 150 resi- 
dents, a comfortable hotel, two wagon and blacksmith shops, two stores, a 
harness-shop, and mail facilities three times a week with Freeport. It is a 
thriving town for its size, with all the religious and educational facilities peculiar 
to a location remote from railroad travel. 

The schoolhouse located on the road to Cedarville, and near the Lutheran 
Church, was first erected in 1849, and through thirty years' exposure to the 
elements, has " held its own," with the promise of usefulness, for decades yet 
unborn. 

The first teachers employed in the vicinity were Fayette Goddard and 
Adeline Hulburt, who taught an average daily attendance of seventy scholars 
for many years. Since those times the district has been twice divided, once in 
1868 and again in 1871, and at present the daily attendance averages about 
fifty pupils of both sexes. 

One teacher is employed, and the annual expense of operating the school 
is about $350, raised by taxation. 

Lutheran Church. — The only church in the" village was organized Octo- 
ber 19, 1850, with nineteen members, and the Rev. G. J. Donmeyer, Pastor. 
At first the schoolhouse was used as a place of worship, but in 1869, the 
present edifice was erected. It is of brick, 30x45, ornamented with a steeple, 
and cost $2,200. 

The present congregation numbers fifty members, and the following Pastors 
have officiated : Revs. G. J. Donmeyer, J. Stoll, J. K. Bloom and G. J. Don- 
meyer, recalled, and at present the incumbent. 

Three miles west of New Pennsylvania is a Lutheran congregation, also 
organized by Mr. Donmeyer, in 1851, with thirteen members. Twenty years 
later, the association built the church now in use, for $1,800, and has since 
occupied it. 

The Rev. J. W. Fritch is the Pastor now officiating. 



WINSLOW TOWNSHIP. 

Full fifty years ago, Lyman Brewster, a wealthy landowner, who had emi- 
grated from Vermont to Tennessee, where he acquired a competency, turned his 
face North, and halted not until he reached the settlement theD making at Peru, 
on the Illinois River. How long he tarried here, is not of record ; but, in the 
spring of 1833, he continued his prospecting tour, finally reaching the present 
site of Winslow, in Winslow Township, where he entered a claim, erected a 



546 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

comfortable house, cleared 80 acres of ground, and established " Brewster's 
Ferry," the first ferry in the county, and for many years the only one accessi- 
ble to emigrants in crossing the Pecatonica River. Mr. Brewster was the first 
white man who ever made a claim in Winslow Township, and after a brief stay, 
by which time others had followed in his venturesome footsteps, he rented the 
ferry and adjoining property to William Robey, and returned to Peru, where 
he died. 

Winslow Township is in the extreme northwest corner of the county, and, 
though one of the smallest, it will compare favorably with other townships in 
the amount of improved lands and quality of cultivation. 

On the west side of the Pecatonica River, which crosses the eastern portion 
of the township, the country is gently rolling, being made up of prairies and 
barrens, with but few wooded tracts. East of that stream, however, beautiful 
hardwood groves break the monotony of the prairie landscape at intervals, fur- 
nishing abundant fuel, fencing and building materials. The prairies are fertile 
and the soil generally of a rich, black loam, with inexhaustible productive 
powers for agricultural purposes. The climate is healthful, the grain-growing 
region furnishes large returns to the farmer, fruits are successfully grown, and 
the blue grass, which is said to have been imported into Stephenson County by 
George Trotter, of Buckeye Township, thrives luxuriantly, affording rich graz- 
ing fields and supplies of hay for the winter season. 

Among those who made their adventurous way into the township the same 
year that witnessed the advent of Mr. Brewster, were Joe Abenos and A. C. 
Ransom, the latter going back East for his family, after surveying the outlook, 
and returning the following spring. Abenos assisted Mr. Brewster in the 
management of the ferry, while Ransom settled in Section 36, a mile and a half 
southeast of the village of Winslow, where he entered a claim and laid off the 
town of Ransomburg. But the town did not prosper as was anticipated, 
Winslow appropriating the new-comers because of its more favorable site, and 
Ransomburg in time was utilized for farming purposes, Robert Pilson now 
residing and farming within its original metes and bounds. 

George Payne came to the county and settled at Brewster's Ferry in 1834, 
as also did George W. Lott, who erected a shanty in the present village of 
Winslow, and Harvey and Jerry Webster. 

The advance thus made by the brave pioneers, and the struggle they encoun- 
tered in contending for the permanent establishment of the cause of civilization in 
this uninhabited wilderness, was not without results in paving the way for the 
rise and progress of this portion of the county through the influence of the 
immigration that succeeded their coming. 

The year 1835 witnessed the arrival of a comparatively large number of 
settlers, mostly from the Eastern States. James and W. Henry Eells, made 
claims and established themselves — W. H. now resides in Section 35 ; Alvah 
Denton came in the fall and opened a farm in Section 25, removing subsequently 
to Section 26. Lemuel W. Streator reached the county and purchased 
the Brewster property, which included the ferry and 640 acres of land, paying 
the heirs of Brewster, who had died in the meantime, $4,000 therefor. Mr. 
Streator married Miss Mary Stewart, subsequently, and became one of the 
wealthy men of those primitive days. During the same year, George W. Lott, 
with the Webster brothers, commenced the building of a saw-mill in the future 
village across the creek, the former contracting to complete the mill in con- 
sideration of the brothers preparing the dam. While thus occupied, Hector P. 



*fw**^ 




RIDOT" 




HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 549 

Kneeland made his appearance and aided in the work. The mill was finished 
during the fall, and the builders took possession, owning one- quarter each. 

The winter passed without the happening of any event which was deemed 
worthy of preservation for the future generation, the hardships, toils, trials, per- 
secutions and suffering incident to pioneer life experienced elsewhere, beino- 
duplicated in Winslow, with the same circumstances, pleasures and triumphs to 
fend their advance and mitigate the severity of their attacks. Joseph R. Berry 
settled in the town during 1835, as did others who have left no marks behind to 
guide investigations as to the date of their coming, or other particulars in that 
behalf. The spring brought with it a return of previous vicissitudes, labors and 
vexations of spirit, also the encouragement that tempers similar afflictions. 
During 1836, Stewart & McDowell (new arrivals) opened a store in Ransom- 
burg, procuring their stock from Galena. They remained there for several 
years, and then removed to Oneco, establishing themselves on the place where 
Lewis Gibler subsequently resided, now owned by Judge Hinds. 

The year 1836 is further remembered as the annual during which the set- 
tlers were provided with medical attention by one of their own number. Pre- 
vious to that period, the sick were dosed with medicaments procured in Galena, 
and attended by physicians, to the "manor born," of other regions. But W. 
G. Bankson came on to the scene in 1836, and, settling on Section 25, advertised 
his services as awaiting the demand of the public. Others "came in" about 
this time, including Harmon Coggeshall, James Macomber, etc. 

The first marriage to occur in Winslow, within the memory of the oldest 
living inhabitant, took place in the fall of 1836. The ceremony united Dr. 
Bankson and Phoebe Macomber, and was witnessed on the heights of Ransom- 
burg in the presence of a large (?) and doubtless interested audience. A circuit 
rider, or Squire Waddams, did the business. 

The first death is also said to have taken place this season, being the death 
of the son of Lemuel Streator. 

During 1837, it is not thought that immigration tended in the direction of 
Winslow, though Illinois and Stephenson County received large accessions to 
the number of their inhabitants. But, for some unexplained reason, Winslow 
was exempted from participation in these benefits accruing elsewhere during 
that year, Charles Macomber, Cornelius and the Rev. Philo Judson, Ephraim 
Labaugh, Alfred Gaylord, Rev. Asa Ballinger and S. F. M. Fretville being 
the only arrivals the record of whose coming has survived the rust of ages. 
That many came, is undoubted. That any in transitu resisted the fertile acres 
dotted everywhere with evidences of wealth, or the temptation to remain and 
dispute possession of these wood prairies with the red man, who sported along 
the flowery banks of the Pecatonica, it is impossible to conclude. Those who 
came, saw and were conquered ; but the hand of Time has effaced their coming 
from the memory of those who live to-day, and further mention of them is pre- 
cluded. The Judsons settled below Brewster's Ferry, and Philo, who was a 
minister, subsequently removed to other scenes. His daughter is well known, 
not alone to the citizens of Stephenson County, but throughout the Northwest, 
as Mrs. Gov. Beveridge, a lady identified with many objects of charity and 
the cause of reform. 

In 1838, affairs began to brighten and became more encouraging. On the 
10th of January, a son was born to Silas and Miranda Gage, though his was 
not the first birth in the town, Sirah Maria Denton having been born in the 
fall of 1836. He still lives in Winslow Village, where he is known as I. V. 
Gage. In the spring following, Newcomb Kinney entered land and " broke 





550 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

up" a farm on Section 26. Hiram Gaylord joined his son Alfred, who 
came in 1837. Cornelius and Jonathan Cowan cast their lot with Winslow 
also. On the 28th of May, John Bradford, Thomas Loring and Colum- 
bus and Ichabod Thompson, together with the Moulton brothers, arrived 
from Plymouth County, Mass. They came to build up and improve lands held 
by the Boston Western Land Company, on which the village of Winslow was sub- 
sequently built. That summer they built a wagon and blacksmith shop, shingle 
factory, and the American House, which latter is still standing. Elias and 
Edward Hunt came in the same year. Joseph R. Berry, who came in 1835-36 
and revisited the East for his family, returned to Winslow in 1839, and settled 
above the village site. W. P. Cox settled the same year in Section 35. 
Gilson Adams, A. A. Mallory and others came during the same year. 

In 1844, Cyrus Woodman came to Winslow as agent of the Boston Land 
Company, and from that date the progress of the township has not only been 
rapid but assured. In 1850, it was set apart from the county as Winslow 
Towuship and placed under township organization. At the present date it is 
regarded as one of the most prosperous and attractive townships in the county, 
with every element to commend it to the successful consideration of all who 
seek homes among the thrifty, where a promise of happiness and contentment 
can invariably be realized. 

The township was named about 1838, after Gov. Winslow, one of the 
early provisional Governors of Massachusetts, by W. S. Russell, agent of the 
Boston Western Land Company. 

WINSLOW, 

is a village of about 375 inhabitants on the west bank of the Pecatonica 
River, in Section 22 of Winslow Township. 

In earlier times the Boston Western Land Company, a corporation 
domiciliated in Massachusetts, held title to about 72,000 acres of land, divided 
between the States of Illinois, Missouri and Wisconsin. Of this a tract of 700 
acres was located in Winslow Township, on the present s|te of the town. In 
1844, Cyrus Woodman succeeded W. S. Russell as the company's agent, and, 
by authority vested in him, surveyed, platted and laid off the'village of Winslow. 
Lots on the east side of the main street were from 60 to 100 feet front by 300 feet 
in depth, those on the opposite side varying in size and dimensions ; they were 
held at prices ranging from $10 to $25 each. At that time there were but 
three houses within the corporate limits of the village, one standing where the 
Presbyterian Church now is, another where James Fuller now resides, and the 
American Hotel. The idea seemed to impress the founders of this town that 
the future reserved infinite prosperity for the undertaking, and they described 
the " city limits " with this fact constantly in mind. Streets were laid out and 
named, squares surveyed and staked, a wharf provided for at the foot of Bridge 
street, and other labors accomplished tending to attract remunerative, if not 
immediate, returns. But these returns failed to materialize with amazing 
rapidity, and in time the title of the company was transferred to individuals 
for farming and resident purposes. 

In 1850, when the township was organized, there was a slight ripple of 
excitement among the more sanguine, and the hope of future prominence 
revived for a season. But the looked-for golden age in the history of the 
village was again postponed, and its arrival is looked upon by the residents 
to-day as an article too indefinite for grave consideration — one of those things 
no man can find out. Some hope is felt that a narrow-gauge railroad, said to 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 551 

be under consideration by the North- Western Company, may pass in the vicinity 
of Winslow, which would have the effect of appreciating business and increas- 
ing the value of property ; in any event, the town will remain what it has 
always been, an attractive point for trade and residence, with abundant water- 
power, and accessible to all localities for business or pleasure. 

The town is well built, the residences suggesting a New England village, 
and indicating the comfortable competence of the inmates. The stores and 
warehouses are of frame, brick and stone, of ample capacity for the business 
transacted, and of the most substantial character. The village contains an 
energetic population, five stores, one church edifice, and two hotels, which are 
both comfortable and homelike, and if the wheels of progress have been stayed 
in the beautiful valley that incloses Winslow in an embrace of hills rivaling 
the vale of Cashmere in the loveliness of their verdure, the residents are com- 
pensated for its absence in the comfort and independence apparent to the most 
casual visitor or observer. 

RELIGIOUS. 

The religious interests of the early settlers were considered and cared for, 
prior to 1840, by the Rev. Asa Ballinger, a Methodist circuit preacher, who 
came to Winslow in 1837, and each Sabbath thereafter preached the word of 
God to the pioneers, in the groves, private cabins and elsewhere, as circum- 
stances enabled him. In 1840, the Rev. Elisha H. Hazzard, a Congrega- 
tional minister, divided the field with Elder Ballinger, and is said to have 
been quite successful in his efforts at converting sinners or recalling back- 
sliders. From this date up to about 1855, the worshiping portion of the 
town was dependent upon transients, in addition to the services of the gentle- 
men cited, but in that year the Presbyterians, to the number of nineteen, met 
and organized. The society is still in existence, and with the Congregational- 
ists, totalizes the religious interests of Winslow. 

First Presbyterian Church. — On the 9th of April, 1855, a meeting was 
held at the village hotel for the purpose of organizing an ecclesiastical corpora- 
tion, having for its object the worship of God according to the Calvinistic 
doctrines. The attendance was small and nothing accomplished. On the 
19th of the same month, an adjourned meeting was held, attended with similar 
results, but two days later, the organization was perfected, and the articles of 
faith, as has already been stated, signed by nineteen members. 

Worship was had in the schoolhouse until fall, when the brick church, now 
standing, which had been building during the summer, was completed and 
taken possession of. It is of brick, 35x55, supplied with an organ, and pos- 
sesses capacity for seating two hundred auditors. Its cost was $2,000. 

The congregation to-day is in a prosperous condition, numbers many wor- 
shipers, and owns the only house of worship in the village. 

The following Pastors have served, though part of the time the society has 
been obliged to depend upon the visits of circuit preachers : The Revs. John 
N. Powell, John Johnson, A. T. Wood, Mr. Schofield, John Linn, and A. S. 
Gardner, the present incumbent. 

Congregational Society — Numbering at present thirty-eight members, was 
the outgrowth of a season of revival held in Winslow under the supervision 
of A. P. Loomis during the spring of 1877. The effort of Mr. Loomis is said 
to have been attended with a most gratifying success, one hundred converts 
having been baptized by that gentleman while in Winslow. At the close of his 
ministration, the converts organized the "Winslow Christian Association," 



552 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

graduating into the Congregational Church organization on the 11th of May, 
1878, with sixty members. 

Services are at present held in Wright's Hall, but the congregation antici- 
pate building a church at a day by no means distant. The Rev. Francis Law- 
son is the Pastor at present in charge. 

Schools. — The first school taught in the village was begun during the year 
1840, in the upper story of Edward Hunt's wagon-shop. It remained here a 
short time, when a house was built for school purposes by Silas Sears, on the 
hill southwest of town, which was occupied until 1872, when the present 
commodious school edifice, on the site of that erected by Silas Sears, was com- 
pleted, at a cost of $3,000, and has since been occupied. 

It is of frame, two stories high, about forty feet square, and supplied with 
every convenience peculiar to similar undertakings. The course of study 
includes the leading common-school text-books, and furnishes a means of edu- 
cation to an average daily attendance of sixty-five pupils. 

Two teachers are employed, and the annual expense of the school is believed 
to be about $1,000. 

Window Lodge, No. 56£,A., F. $ A. M. — Was chartered October 1, 1867, 
with the following members : Benjamin Pym, John Bradford, Jacob Sweeley, 
P. Sweeley, D. D. Tyler, R. E. Mack, T. Rodebaugh, C. M. Macomber, M. 
J. Cooper and J. W. Saucerman. 

Since that date, the lodge has increased to forty members, acquired prop- 
erty valued at $200, and is otherwise an important factor in the daily life of 
the village. 

Meetings are held monthly on the first Monday, and the following are the 
officers at present in charge: John Gordon, W. M.; W. Van Matre, S. W., 
J. M. Rybolt, J. W.; J. Hilliard, Treasurer ; J. W. Saucerman, Secretary ; 
Charles Elliott, S. D.; A. Kelley, J. D., and J. N. Fuller, Tiler. 



ONECO TOWNSHIP, 

in the north tier of townships of Stephenson County, is one of the mos 
prosperous and highly productive sections of the State. It contains a large 
acreage, about equally divided between timber and prairie, with Richland 
Creek coursing the eastern portion from north to south, and other streams and 
rivulets, furnishing an abundant and permanent water-power for available use. 
The early settlement of Oneco Township is somewhat involved in doubt. 
The effort was made to ascertain to whom was due the distinguished honor of 
first venturing into the wilderness, at present comprehended within the limits 
of the township ; but, owing to the fact that none of the earlier pioneers of that 
region survive the march of events, this labor was attended with a success dis- 
proportioned to the importance of the subject in hand. Simon Davis, it is 
believed, was among the first to settle in this portion of " Brewster Precinct," 
he coming about the year 1833. After him, it appears that Andrew Clarno 
followed. Both of these, it is assumed, had previously made claims in the lead 
regions, further north and west ; but, indifferent success or a desire to engage 
in agricultural pursuits, influenced them, about the time above designated, to 
effect a change of base and open farms, the former near the town of Oneco, and 
the latter in the vicinity of Honey Creek. John M. Curtis also appeared in 
this vicinity during the same year, and made claim to a tract of land in the 
vicinity of Oneco. 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 553 

In 1835, Jefferson and Lewis Van Matre settled one and a half miles west 
of Oneco, Lewis removing from the lead mines at Galena, and Jefferson coming 
from Ohio. Morgan Van Matre followed in the footsteps of his brethren a year 
later, and William Van Matre in 1839, together with Joseph Van Matre. 

The year 1836 witnessed a large emigration from the East to all portions 
of the West, as is well known, and Oneco received considerable additions to her 
population. Among those who arrived about this time were Alonzo Denio, 
who settled in the present site of Oneco Village ; a Mr. Lott, Duke Chilton, 
Lorin and Fred Remay, Ralph Hildebrand, Jonas Strohm, and others. 
Between 1836 and 1838, James, Henry and George Howe were included among 
the recent arrivals, as also were James Young and Philip and Warner Wells, 
all of whom opened farms at the head of Long Hollow ; Henry Johnson, at 
the northeast corner of the town ; Oliver and John R. Brewster, Ezra Gillett, 
who erected the mill at Buena Vista ; Joab Morton, identified with the eastern 
portion of the township ; Isaac Kleckner, with the eastern vicinity of the vil- 
lage of Oneco, James Turnbull, who removed subsequently to Winslow ; 
"Father " Ballinger, whose son Asa was among the earliest circuit preachers 
of the Illinois Conference, and others. 

The tragic death of one of the Lotts caused no inconsiderable excitement 
among his neighbors at the time, and is believed to have been among the first 
deaths, if not the first, to occur in the township. 

The Indians occupied camps in various portions of Oneco and Buckeye 
Townships when their present territories were in that primitive condition in 
which they were found by the pioneers. They were not particularly demon- 
strative in acts of hostility or annoyance, yet the first comers experienced some 
trouble with the impecunious and embarrassed red man. He left his mark on the 
resources of his neighbors at any and every opportunity, and not unfrequently 
the mournful notes of a porker broke upon the ear of the settler long after 
midnight's holy hour, indicating the deep damnation of its taking-off by the 
covetous aborigine. When one of these despoilers of man's happiness and 
property was discovered in the act, or convicted of crime, he was punished se- 
verely ; this discipline, together with the gradual settling up of the country, 
and his departure for other fields, finally relieved the pioneers of these annoy- 
ances and his presence. 

In 1839, Lewis Gibler removed from Ohio to Oneco Township, settling on 
Section 18, on the farm at present owned by Judge Alexander Hinds. William 
Van Matre, as mentioned above, came also, it is believed, in this year, as did 
Jacob Stroder, Joseph Van Matre, Jr., and others. William established himself 
in the western portion of the town, whence he removed to Rock Grove, and 
Mineral Point, Wis. The following year, it is believed, Isaac Miller settled in 
the township ; also Mike Bolander, Lyman, William and Nelson Hulburt, John 
Clarno, Joseph Norns and Seth Schockley. The first marriage of which there 
are any reliable data, occurred during this year. Henry Rybolt and Lizzie 
McNear were the felicitous candidates, and Squire Gibler performed the cere- 
mony, at the residence of Jefferson Van Matre. William Van Matres' daugh- 
ter, who died in 1840, is stated to have been the first interment made in Mount 
Pleasant Cemetery. Some advise that hers was the first death, but this can 
hardly be, when the suicide of Mr. Lott is remembered, if the latter occurred 
in 1838, as is related. 

After 1840, emigration became more rapid and generous. The enterpris- 
ing descendants of those who had built up Pennsylvania and Ohio half a century 
before, were equally ambitious as had been the parent, to carve out fortune 



554 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

for themselves in the Far West. The growing East afforded too little encour- 
agement to attract them to remain at home, and, prompted by these influ- 
ences, as also that spirit of thrift, not to say adventure, which predominates 
throughout the Yankee nation, their "prairie schooners " and pack horses were 
to be seen daily crowding the trails which were finally lost in the unbroken 
wilderness of that territory in the direction of the setting sun. With each 
succeeding year their number increased, and the township under consideration 
received large accessions to its inhabitants, until the last claim was taken 
up, and the landscape dotted with the homes of these hardy pioneers. Most 
of them have gone the way of all flesh — rest from their labors. But their 
names are preserved among the archives of the past, as among the distinguished 
few to whom must be attributed the honor of first settling a wilderness, and 
opening a way for the present prosperity and advanced refinement to be wit- 
nessed on every side. 

In time villages sprang up in the new township. One of these has become 
an incorporated town, the objective point toward which farmers and producers 
living within a radius of many miles, turn for bargain or sale, with the effect of 
making Orangeville a lively business center, at which an annual business is 
transacted that would astonish the more pretentious city rival. Oneco Village 
is scarcely changed, it is said, from what it was nearly forty years ago, and 
"hardly ever" will. The laying-out and building-up of Orangeville has appro- 
priated the patronage and population at one time tending to Oneco, and the 
latter remains as it was left when its rival's site was selected a post office center, 
where the residents of the immediate vicinity congregated to receive their mail, 
and canvass questions of local or national issue. Throughout the township 
churches and schools are to be found at nearly every cross-road, and the causes 
of education and morality are guarded with the same care, and promoted with 
the same earnestness in Oneco as are the vital interests of life throughout the 
civilized world. 

ORANGEVILLE. 

An inland village, delightfully located in the southeastern part of Oneco 
Township, handsomely built, inhabited by an industrious, progressive and enter- 
prising class of citizens, containing a population of from four to five hundred, 
and the market town of the section, wherein it is situated, the village does an 
immense business, and presents a fine field for investment or residence. 

Orangeville, originally known as Bowersville, owes its immediate origin to 
John Bowers, though the town site had been partially entered and improved, 
by John M. Curtis, prior to Mr. Bowers' arrival in 1846. About the year 
1845, Mr. B. came West, and settled at Walnut Grove. A year's residence 
thereabout prompted a removal to more desirable fields for permanent settle- 
ment, and, after canvassing the surrounding country, he at last selected the 
present site of the town, where, by entry and purchase, he secured title to 320 
acres of ground, including a log cabin, mills (saw and grist), and water-power 
obtained from Richland Creek. 

After a residence at his new home of about one year, Mr. Bowers, regard- 
ing the site as possessing many advantages for the purpose, determined to create 
a town in the, even at that late day, almost impenetrable wilderness. There- 
upon, he appropriated fifteen acres of the land purchased, caused the same 
to be surveyed and platted by Marcus Montelius, and named his venture, as 
already stated, " Bowersville." 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 555 

This was in 1849, at which time the brick house on High street, wherein 
the post office is now kept, is said to have been built. Charles Moore's present 
residence, a store, presided over by George Hoffman, a blacksmith-shop, built 
by John Bowers, and occupied by Benjamin Hallroan, together with the old 
Curtis Mills, composed the improvements. The next year, however, Mr. Bowers 
commenced the building of the present mill, hauling the shingles and better 
qualities of lumber from Chicago by team, himself acting as driver. The mill 
was finished the same year at a total cost of about $8,000. 

Immediately upon the completion of the survey and the promulgation of 
the fact that a village was in progress of building, speculators, agents and bona- 
fide purchasers came into the country. Some invested and remained, others 
departed, promising to return, while others departed without leaving either 
promises or collaterals to indicate their intentions. Daniel Duck is said to 
have been the first purchaser of lots in the future town, obtaining that on which 
is now located the house of Franklin Scott, paying $10 therefor. William 
Herbert and others came about the same time, and within that decade large 
numbers of substantial residents settled in the town. Lands were cheap, the 
village was near Freeport, possessed of valuable water privileges, and other 
inducements prevailed to meet the popular demand, which found expression in 
the number of inhabitants who came during the first ten or fifteen years of 
its existence. 

In 1861, the breaking-out of the war caused a large increase in the volume 
of business done by the merchants, which was materially diminished for some 
years thereafter, owing to the unsettled condition of affairs throughout the 
country, the departure of volunteers, and other causes producing similar effects 
elsewhere. The last half of the decade beginning with 1860, however, wit- 
nessed an improved state of public feeling, producing a better market for 
commodities and correspondingly prosperous times. Orangeville of course 
participated in these benefits, and so pronounced was the success which attended 
her development and building-up, that in 1867 the village was incorporated as 
a town, with such prerogatives and privileges appertaining thereto as by law 
are conferred, including town officers, the following being the roster of those 
who have held during the years succeeding : 

OFFICIAL ROSTER. 

Trustees. — Charles Moore, President ; William Wagenhols, George Erb, 
W. A. St. John and Jacob Kurtz, Associates, 1867. 

1868 — Daniel Ream, President; B. H. Bradshaw, William Herbert, 
Henry Kline and Aaron Boltzer, Associates. William Herbert refusing to 
serve, W. R. Moore was elected in his stead. 

1869— J. K. Bloom, President ; D. R. Rubendall, Peter Scheckler, F. 
Winters and Edward Moore. 

1870— William Wagenhals, B. H. Bradshaw, W. B. Moore, W. A. St. 
John and James Musser. 

1871 — John K. Bloom, President ; Edward Moore, Peter Sheckler, Will- 
iam Trotter and William Potts, Associates. 

1872 — M. Musser, President; William Sandoe, M. Lanker, John Mun- 
ich and E. F. Smith, Associates. 

March 25, 1873 — At a special election holden this day, Orangeville was 
incorporated as a village under the general law. 

1873 — W. P. Musser, President; Charles Moore, B. Bowers, D. L. Ma- 
honey, F- A. Miller and Moses Zenker, Associates. 



556 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

1874 — W. P. Musser, President ; John J. Moore, A. Baltzer, M. Lenk- 
ard, D. Beaver and William Potts, Associates. 

1875— H. W. Bolender, President ; William Wagenhols, D. H. Zettle, 
Peter Sheckler, Benjamin Bowers and William Trotter, Associates. 

1876— A. Baltzer, President; B. H. Bradshaw, William E. Eble, Ed- 
ward Moore, H. Cadwell and D. L. Mahoney, Associates. 

1877— M. P. Musser, President ; J. B. Schrack, A. Bowers, H. W. Bolen- 
der, D. L. Mahonev and George Erb, Associates. 

1878— M. P. Musser, President; S. E. Deal, J. B. Schrack, B. H. 
Bradshaw, H. W. Bolender and Abraham Bowers, Associates. 

1879— J. G. Wise, President; Henry Deal, William Sandoe, E. T. 
Moore, John H. Denhart and H. Skinner, Associates. 

1880 — D. A. Schock, President ; J. G. Wise, William Sandoe, Hiram 
Skinner, E. T. Moore and Henry Deal, Associates. 

Clerks.— W. A. St. John, 1867 ; B. H. Bradshaw, 1868 ; D. R. Ruben- 
dall, 1869 ; W. A. St. John. 1870 ; W. Trotter, 1871 ; W. Sandoe, 1872 ; 
H. W. Bolender, 1873; J. J. Moore, 1874; J. G. Wise, 1876; T. H. Rote, 
1876-77; J. H. Miller, 1878; T. H. Rote, 1879-80. 

Treasurers.— W. Wagenhals, 1867; H. Kline, 1868; P. Scheckler, 1869; 
W. Wagenhals, 1870 ; W. Potts, 1871 ; J. Munich, 1872 ; C. Moore, 1873 ; 
W. Potts, 1874 : W. Sandoe, 1875 ; James Musser, 1876-80. 

Police Magistrate. — William Sandoe, 1877. 

Schools. — The first schoolhouse erected in the village occupied a portion 
of the lot east of the present site of the Luthern Church. In 1860, the school 
was graded, and in 1874 the present edifice was completed and occupied at a 
cost of $6,000. 

The scholastic curriculum embraces two departments, "primary" and 
"grammar," employing two teachers and enjoying a daily average attendance 
of seventy-six pupils. Thcannual expense attending the support of the schools 
is about $800. 

Lutheran and Reformed Church. — The Lutherans and Reformed Luther- 
ans occupy the same edifice located on the main street north of the schoolhouse. 

The Reformed society was organized May 3, 1851, by Henry Habliston, 
with twenty-four members, of whom Henry Ault was Elder and John Bower 
and M. Bolander Deacons. 

At a meeting held the same year, it was decided to unite with the Luther- 
ans to procure the erection of a church edifice, and Daniel Rean, John Bowers 
and John Wohlford were appointed a Building Committee. The corner-stone 
was laid in September, 1852, the Revs. G. J. Donmeyer, Daniel Kroh and 
George Weber officiating, and completed and dedicated September 23, 1855. 
The church cost $1,900 ; it is of brick, plainly furnished, supplied with an 
organ, and possessing a capacity for seating about 200 auditors. The dedicatory 
services were held by the Revs. G. J. Donmeyer, Daniel Kroh, F. C. Bowman, 
Aratus Kent and J. P. Decker, and the following Pastors have since served : The 
Revs. John Hoyman, Henry Knepper, C. G. A. Hulhorst and F. W. Stump. 

The congregation numbers about seventy communicants. 

The Lutheran branch of the congregation was established about 1847 or 
1848, under the auspices of the Rev. G. J. Donmeyer, with a very small congre- 
gation. Services were first held in a log schoolhouse on the Ault farm in Buck- 
eye Township. He remained in charge for a number of years, exchanging 
occasionally with the Rev. Ephraim Miller, of Cedarville, convening for service 
in the schoolhouse, mill, etc., until the church above mentioned was built, when 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 557 

it was occupied in part with the Lutheran Reformed congregation in accord- 
ance with the terms of an agreement concluded between the several associations. 

The following Pastors have served since the society was established : The 
Revs. G. J. Donmeyer, Mr. Fahr, Charles Anderson, Mr. Cook, John K. 
Bloom, J. Stoll, A. B. Niddlesworth, and B. F. Pugh, the present incumbent. 
The congregation numbers seventy-five worshipers. 

The United Brethren Association — Has been in existence in Oneco since 
1844. The first services were held in schoolhouses and private residences. 
The Orangeville Circuit was established in 1856, and in 1857 the present church 
in the village was erected. It is of brick, 36x50, and cost $2,000. Other 
churches were subsequenlly erected in the circuit, including Boehm Chapel in 
1865, at an expense of $1,700, and St. James' Church in 1870, for which 
$2,000 was paid. 

The association property is valued at $6,500, and the congregation num- 
bers 200 communicants. The following ministers have served in the circuit : 
the Revs. Heman Scott, Jeremiah Kenoyer, Samuel Kretsinger, Mr. Frazier, 
William Dollarhide, Moses Clifton, Mr. Collins, Mr. Henninger, George 
Schneider, J. Hiestand, Mr. Pope, J. H. Grim, S. Rogers, J. H. Young, C. A. 
Philipps, J. W. Burd, Mr. Roe, J. Johnson, J. Dodson, W. R. Coursey, A. G. 
Loomis and O. M. Van Swearingen. 

Methodist Church — Organized under the present arrangement October 
15, 1875, though the sect had held services in the township for many years 
prior to that date. The charter members were Benjamin Bower and wife, Mrs. 
Susan Bennett, Mrs. Sarah Heckman, Mrs. B. J. Parriott, Mrs. J. H. Cook, 
William and Phceby Frederick, and William Holloway and wife. Services 
were had semi-monthly, under the pastorate of the Rev. F. B. Hardin, in the 
German Reformed Church. He was succeeded by the Rev. Bertrand Dickens, 
under whose incumbency possession of Masonic Hall was obtained and is now 
in use. 

At first, the congregation in the circuit and village was quite small, but in 
1876 it began to increase, and has so continued with gratifying frequency 
to the present time. In October, 1877, the Rev. R. A. Harwood accepted 
charge of the church, and under his dispensation a new edifice was contracted 
for, same to be erected of frame at Oneco, to cost $1,100, and be completed 
September 1, 1880. 

There are now 140 members of the congregation in the charge and twenty- 
eight in the village of Orangeville. The church property, including the par- 
sonage, is valued at $2,000. 

Evangelical Association. — Formerly the Cedarville and Orangeville Cir- 
cuits were several ; but increase in numbers necessitated a division at various 
times, the last one occurring in 1870, when Orangeville was made a separate 
charge. The Orangeville Circuit now includes Orangeville, Fairfield, St. 
Peter's Church at Clarno, Wis., two appointments in Wayne County and one 
at Pleasant Hill. 

The present congregation was organized at Orangeville some years ago, 
but the church edifice was not erected until 1880 ; it having been completed, and 
dedicated January 18, of that year, and is one of the finest finished and com- 
modious churches in the county. 

The edifice is of frame, 86x52, with a steeple eighty-seven feet high and an 
auditorium capable of comfortably seating 200 worshipers. It is elaborately 
frescoed, possessing superior acoustic qualities, furnished with an organ, and 
desirable in every particular. It cost, complete, $2,500. 



558 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

The following Pastors have served since the Orangeville Circuit became a 
separate charge: The Rev. J. B. Rife, William Caton, and S. A. Miller, the 
present incumbent. 

The circuit congregation numbers 245 communicants, fifty-two of whom 
worship in Orangeville, and the church property is valued at $5,000. 

Orangeville Lodge, No. 687, A., F. $ A. M. — Was chartered October 1, 
1872, to the following-named members, though the lodge had been working 
under a dispensation for some time prior to that date: B. H. Bradshaw, David 
Jones, James Musser, Benjamin Musser, Charles Musser, I. G. Ermhold, J. 
K. Bloom, H. W. Bolender, P. Scheckler, William Potts and D. A. Schock. 
The officers at this time were B. H. Bradshaw, W. M. ; David Jones, S. W., 
and James Musser, J. W. 

The order progressed and prospered in wealth and influence, and, in 1876, 
erected a handsome hall on High street, a decided ornament to the village, and 
a source of pride to the fraternity and citizens of Orangeville. The hall is of 
frame, 26x51, two stories high, handsomely finished, and peculiarly adapted 
to the uses for which it is appropriated. The basement contains a supper-room, 
equipped with furniture, cooking and table utensils, and is used upon festive 
occasions. The first floor is occupied for hall purposes, where entertainments, 
lectures, social and church gatherings are held. It contains a stage, is 
thoroughly lighted, heated and ventilated, with a capacity for seating an audi- 
ence of 300. The upper story is devoted to the lodge-room of the organization, 
and is superior, in point of finish, to many in cities more pretentious. The cost 
of the building was $2,500. 

The present officers are S. R. Pollock, W. M. ; C. Musser, S. W. ; W. H. 
Barnes. J. W. ; John F. Fink, Secretary ; William E. Eble, Treasurer ; P. 
Rubendall, S. D.; J. S. Hess, J. D., and H. W. Bolander, Tiler. 

The present membership includes thirty-one of the craft, and the lodge 
property is valued at $2,500. Meetings are convened on the first and third 
Thursdays of each month. 

J. R. Scroggs Lodge, No. 372, I. O. O. F.— Was organized October 13, 
1868, under a charter issued to A. A. Krape, Thomas Spriggs, Henry Dinges, 
J. K. Bloom, J. J. Moore and William Sandoe. The officers then were A. A. 
Krape, N. G. ; J. K. Bloom, V. G., and William Sandoe, Secretary. 

Since the date of its organization the lodge has prospered deservedly, and 
now enjoys a membership of sixty-five of the order, with property valued at 
$2,000. 

The present officers are A. Rubendall, N. G. ; Charles Worrick, V. G. ; 
J. J. Moore and G. F. Ream, Secretaries, and H. W. Bolender, Treasurer. 

Meetings are held weekly, on Saturday evening, in Masonic Hall. 

Orangeville Lodge, No. 133, 1. O. Gr. T. — Was first organized in 1867, and, 
after a few years' combat with the world of intemperance, yielded up the ghost. 
In the fall of 1877, J. Q. Detwiler, an ardent temperance reformer, labored 
throughout the county, and effected a re-organization of the society, with a 
total of twenty- four members, and the following officers : J. Cook, P. W. C. T. ; 
Henry Knepper, W. C. T. ; F. W. Stumpf, W. S. ; Sarah Scheckler, W. F. S. ; 
Mary Scott, W. T. ; Sadie Seidel, W. V. T. ; Addie Cook, W. I. G. ; C. F. 
Winchell, W. M. ; B. Dickens, Chaplain. 

Within three years, the lodge has increased its working force to forty mem- 
bers, and is otherwise prosperous. 

The following are the present officers : B. H. Bradshaw, P. W. C. T. ; 
Sarah Seidel, W. C. T. ; Amelia Dorn, W. V. T.; M. E. Bradshaw, W. S. ; 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 559 

Milton Stites, W. F. S. ; Libbie Bower, W. T. ; L. Streyfeller, W. M. ; 
Alory Scott, W. I. G. ; Mrs. Kate Bowers, W. 0. G. 

Meetings are held semi-monthly, on Friday evenings, in Masonic Hall. 

In addition to the societies which convene in Masonic Hall, its occupation 
is granted, on the first and third Saturday afternoons, to Excelsior Grange, 
No. 109, Patrons of Husbandry, which was chartered January 21, 1873, and 
now has sixty members, with the following officers : Daniel Musser, Master ; 
Franklin Ream, Overseer ; Charles Cadwell, Secretary ; Reuben Bobb, Treas- 
urer ; and Charles Cadwell, Chaplain. 

Orangeville Flour Mills. — The first mills erected in the immediate vicinity 
of Orangeville, were put up by John M. Curtis, at a date long before the now 
flourishing village was conceived in the brain of its founder. In 1838, Mr. 
Curtis "rigged" a very primitive dam on the opposite side of Richland Creek, 
near the foot of what is now known as High street, and built a mill supplied 
with one run of stones, and machinery for sawing purposes. He worked this 
industry successfully until his death, which occurred along in the forties, when 
they remained idle until John Bowers purchased the establishment and prepared 
to lay out the village. 

In 1850, after Orangeville had been surveyed and began to be populated, 
Mr. Bowers razed the old structure, and from, its ruins erected the present 
handsome building on the village side of the creek, at a cost of $8,000. The 
premises are of frame, 40x60, three and a half stories high, provided with 
three run of stone, and capable of grinding 200 bushels of wheat daily. 

The tight times of 1857 caused a suspension of operations about the mills 
for a temporary period, and, in 1859, they passed into the hands of Messrs. 
Hefty, Legner & Co., who conducted them for seven years, when they sold to 
E. T. Moore & Co., the present owners, for $12,000. 

In 1868, Moore & Co. reconstructed the saw-mill, located it north of the 
flour-mill, and refitted it with new machinery, the improvements made costing 
about $1,500, and to-day own one of the most complete establishments of the 
kind, invaluable to an agricultural community in this section of the State. 

Orangeville Qreamery — One of the largest and most complete establishments 
■of the kind in the West, was established January 13, 1879, by D. A. Schock 
and H. W. Bolender, the present proprietors. The buildings consist of a 
•creamery and refrigerator, which were built at a cost of $5,000, supplied with 
every convenience and detail necessary to a successful carrying-on of the 
business. 

The former is 38x50, containing the manufactory, cooler and other depart- 
ments. The butter is manufactured by steam-power, and the process is somewhat 
interesting. The cream is first put in vats of a capacity of 260 pounds each and 
raised to a temperature of 60°, when it is thrown into a revolving churn and 
moved so rapidly that in forty minutes the raw butter is removed therefrom 
and placed in the cooling-room. It remains here about twenty-four hours, when it 
is taken out, worked thoroughly, salted, loaded into firkins and deposited in the 
refrigerator subject .to order. The refrigerator is 24x40, with a capacity for 
storage of 180,000 pounds of butter in addition to 180 tons of ice, thereby 
maintaining an equable temperature of 40° all the year round. 

The firm manufactures 210 tons of butter annually, or 1,400 pounds daily, 
requiring 6,000 pounds of cream therefor per day, and furnishing employment 
to ten hands at a weekly compensation of $100. 

The goods are shipped to Chicago, St. Louis, Milwaukee and the Eastern 
markets, and command an almost universal demand among dealers. 



560 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

The Cemetery — Was located within the village limits when the same were 
described in the first -instance, and so continued until increasing population 
compelled its removal to some point remote from the habitations of man. It 
now occupies a handsome site on the hill overlooking town, the territory em- 
braced consisting of an acre of ground donated by John Bowers, which is 
handsomely laid out and appropriately decorated with emblems commemora- 
tive of the virtues of those who sleep beneath its turf. 

Post Office. — This indispensable adjunct to civilization was first estab- 
lished in 1854. An effort was made the year previous to procure its location 
at Bowersville, but without results. The year following, however, a change 
came over the spirit of the Postmaster General's conclusions, who granted the 
prayer of petitioners in that connection, directed that the name be changed to 
Orangeville, and appointed William Wagenhals Postmaster. It is now located 
in one of the first brick houses erected in the village, with facilities for com- 
municating with the outer world unsurpassed by those of any interior town of 
similar proportions and importance. 

The first marriage to take place after the building of the village was for- 
mally inaugurated was that of William Wagenhols and Susan Sandoe ; this was 
in 1848. 

Emanuel Shafer, a lad residing with his parents in this village, was bitten 
by a snake about the same year, and his is recorded as the first death ; while a 
daughter to Mary and William Chilton is reputed as the first birth. 

ONECO. 

Along in 1840, Henry Corwith, of Galena, acting on behalf of J. K. 
Brewster, entered a quarter-section of land on the very spot now occupied in 
part by Oneco. This village, which is located near the center of the township, 
was thus laid out and platted with the hope that it in time would become 
a flourishing depot for prosperity to halt at permanently. Some time after its 
survey, the land of which the original tract was composed, excepting about 
fifteen acres, was sold, and is now occupied by the farm of Samuel Stout. Sub- 
sequently, two additions were made to the town site by Alonzo Denio, and it 
now contains a population estimated at one hundred. 

School was taught in sight of the village as early as 1843. In 1851, a 
brick building was erected on Denio's Addition, east of the post office, which was 
occupied until the completion of the present structure, on the Orangeville road. 
This was accomplished in 1876, at a cost of $2,000 ; at present, one teacher is 
employed, who furnishes education and the attendant concomitants to an aver- 
age daily attendance of sixty-five pupils. The annual expenses incident to 
maintaining the school are stated at $500. 

The residents of the village and vicinity attend church in Orangeville, but 
the Methodists are at present erecting an edifice, which will be completed in the 
fall or winter. 



FLORENCE TOWNSHIP. 

This township is on the south line of the county, being bounded on the 
north by Harlem, on the east by Silver Creek, on the south by Carroll County, 
and on the west by Loran Township. Florence contains exactly the surveyor's 
township of six miles square. In the whole area, there is about 1,000 acres of 
woodland, the balance being prairie of the finest description. The timber lies 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 561 

principally on the north side of Yellow Creek, and the country there is very 
productive. The township is thickly settled, and as well supplied with churches 
and schools as any in the county. 

The first settler to come into Florence was Conrad Van Brocklin, who 
removed from Western New York in the fall of 1835, and, after taking some 
time to explore the country, settled with his family on Section 17, in the 
month of March, 1836. He erected a cabin but a little distance from the resi- 
dence he subsequently occupied, and opened a farm. For some months he was 
without neighbors, other than those residing at Craine's Grove and Freeport, 
and was obliged to procure his supplies from Galena and elsewhere. 

In August, 1836, Mason Dimmick emigrated into the neighborhood from 
Ohio, and settled east-northeast of Van Brocklin. That fall, Otis Love and 
family came in ; the next summer, Lorenzo Lee followed in the wake of 
Van Brocklin and the rest, and, in 1837, James Hart settled one mile and a 
half north of Van Brocklin's. These comprise the men who first settled in 
Florence and began the building-up of that portion of the county. 

During 1838, a number established themselves at Liberty Mills. These 
were followed by others equally as venturesome and enterprising, including a 
bachelor named Wickham, William — better known under the pseudonym of 
" Saw-Log " — Smith, etc., etc. A Mr. Strong came in about 1839, as also did 
Sheldon and Russell Scovill, and C. K. Ellis. Anson Babcock came in 1839, 
but returned to New York for his family before he improved his claim. There 
were others, doubtless, who emigrated to Florence during this year, but their 
names cannot be recalled. Mr. Strong remained there for some years, but 
eventually disposed of his property and departed for Lebanon, Ohio, where he 
united with the Shakers, it is said. Other of the early comers moved to Free- 
port, one or two joined the Mormons, and, prior to 1850, when there were some 
sixty families in the township, comparatively few of those who came at an 
early day remained. 

From 1840 to 1845, the number of settlers was larger than it had been 
from 1835 to 1840. Among these were Elli Ellis, P. T. Ellis, the Sheets family. 
William Boyer, John Turneauere and others. Improvements were frequent and of 
a permanent character. Mills were built, and, in place of being obliged to visit 
Chicago, Galena, Mount Carroll and other points for supplies, the same were 
obtainable nearer home. Kirkpatrick's mills, at Mill Grove, and Van Valzah's, 
at Cedarville, were sought for the regular "grist," while " Saw-Log" Smith 
furnished timber for houses, etc. The mail was procured at Freeport, and the 
luxuries and amusements of life were more readily accessible than they had 
been ten years before. 

After 1850, the population increased rapidly, and the means of education 
and cultivation were visibly improved. The first school was opened in about 
1840, Miss Flavilla Forbes being the teacher, and James Hart's old log house 
the "academy." The year 1850 witnessed a material increase in the number 
of schools and scholars, also an improvement in the system employed. Within 
ten years thereafter, the Western Union road was completed through the 
southeastern portion of the township, a station established, and an impetus 
given to emigration, improvements, schools, churches and social amenities. 
During the war, Florence contributed volunteers to the army, and in other 
respects aided in suppressing the rebellion. 

The township to-day is among the most fertile in the county, thickly settled 
by an industrious and educated class of inhabitants, possessing every facility for 



562 HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 

excellence in any department of life, and a monument to the enterprise, intelli- 
gence and diligence of« the pioneers who first assisted in rescuing the northern 
portion of Illinois from the wilderness. 

The village of Florence is located on the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul 
road, eight miles southwest of Freeport. It was established when the station 
was located there, and, though it has been in existence for upward of twenty 
years, its proximity to Freeport has prevented its becoming more than a village 
of very moderate pretensions. The most important building to be seen there 
is the German Evangelical Church, erected during the summer of 1877, under 
the direction of Presiding Elder Byers. It is a frame, 30x40, with a steeple 
seventy-five feet high, and cost, ready for occupation, $2,000. The Rev. John 
Rife is the Pastor in charge, and services are held once in two weeks, the 
society numbering about fifteen communicants, though the congregation is very 
much larger, being made up of farmers and residents for miles around. 

The village contains a schoolhouse and about twenty-five houses, which,, 
with the railroad buildings, constitute the improvements made thus far. 



LANCASTER TOWNSHIP, 

one of the most central townships in the county, was settled first by Ben- 
jamin Goddard, who came during December, 1835, accompanied by his wife r 
John Goddard and John Jewell. 

The township contains upward of 17,000 acres of improved land, and is 
well supplied with an abundance of wood and water. Of late years, settlements 
have been made frequently in Lancaster, and real estate has consequently 
advanced rapidly in value. 

Many of the early settlers became identified with the township and city of 
Freeport, which was set off from the southeast corner of Lancaster ; others went 
into Buckeye, Rock Run and other portions of the county subsequently laid 
out into townships. To Benjamin Goddard, then, with those who accompanied 
him, belongs the credit of first becoming permanently located in the territory 
now comprehended in Lancaster Township. For months the only neighbors 
in the vicinity were William Baker, Levi Robey, the early settlers in Buckeye 
and Harlem, but none in what is now Lancaster. In 1836, Levi Lucas, Rob- 
• ert Jones and John Hoag visited Lancaster, but, after remaining a brief period 
only, removed to Buckeye and Rock Run. Subsequently, David Neidigh came 
in and removed to Buckeye. In 1837 George and Robert Hathaway are 
reported as settlers making claims about that time on Sections 11 and 32. 
Elias Macomber is said to have settled in the township in 1838, and during the 
same year a man named Sedam erected a hut on the town line between Buck- 
eye and Lancaster. In 1839, L. O. Crocker left Freeport and settled in Lan- 
caster. Andrew Sproule came in later and settled near Section 12 ; Joseph F. 
McKibben and Dr. John Charlton on Section 16 ; John Stotzer on Section 24 ; 
Samuel Smith, second, on Section 23 ; W. B. Mitchell came in 1840, and was 
followed by Jacob and Mycene Mitchell two years later. All settled in the 
northern part of the township. 

Lucy Goddard, born March 31, 1836, is reported as the first birth ; Rea- 
gan Lewis, who died in the winter of 1837, the first death, and Thatcher Blake 
to Jane Goodhue, in the same year, the first marriage. 

From 1845 to 1849, the immigration to Lancaster was, with that of some 
of the remaining townships, reasonably numerous. Thence to the completion 



HISTORY OF STEPHENSON COUNTY. 



563 



of the railroad to Freeport it fell off considerably, to be revived, however, with 
the celebration of that event, and soon was completely taken up. 

In all respects, Lancaster will compare favorably with other townships in 
the county. In fertility, in its educational, moral and religious interests, it is 
unsurpassed, and the culture and wealth of the inhabitants are an evidence of 
the character of those who built up the vicinity and developed its almost inex- 
haustible resources. Three railroads course the township in various directions, 
and, with other public interests, are maintained in keeping with the county's 
development, while its people are continuing in a career of steady, even pros- 
perity and happiness. 





'to 4w x^v c I ' a^^i^>^ 



Ri DOTT. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 



j^BBRKVIA-TIONS 



Co company or county 

dlr dealer 

I. V. A Iowa Volunteer Artillery 

I. V. Iowa Volunteer Cavalry 



I. V. I Iowa Volunteer Infantry 

P. O Post Office 

S. or Sec Section 

st street 



FREEPORT. 



Cr. W. ACHENBACH, carriage painter, Bridge street, between Chicago 
and Van Buren streets; is a native of Columbia Co., Penn., and was born July 22, 
1852 ; he grew up to manhood in that State, and learned his trade in Milton, Penn; 
he came West to Stephenson Co., and located in Freeport in March, 1877, and estab- 
lished his present business, and is building up a good trade. 

HON. JOHN H. ADDAMS, President of the Second National Bank of 
Freeport, is a native of Berks Co., Penn., and was born July 12, 1822, his parents 
being Samuel and Caharine (Huy) Addams; he received his early education in the 
common schools, and, witha comprehensive course, at an academy at Trappe, Penn., 
was well prepared foractive life ; on leavingschool, he was apprenticed to the milling 
business; in 1844:, he came to Stephenson Co., 111., and located in what is now called 
Cedarville, and established himself in business as a flour and grain dealer and miller, in 
which he is still interested ; he also purchased a farm in the vicinity ; in 1847 he took 
a prominent part in calling a convention of land-owners and busines men of the district 
which resulted in a concert of action that pushed to completion the Galena & Chicago Union 
Railroad; he appreciated the absolute necessity for obtaining an outlet for the produce of 
that region by railway, and he exerted himself to draw the attention ofthe people to it 
and to induce, them to subscribe for stock in the enterprise ; in 1854, he was elelcted to 
the State Senate as a Republican, and held the seat continuously for sixteen years, 
retiring in 1870. In 1844, he was married to Miss Sarah Weber, daughter of Col. 
Weber, of Kreiderville, Penn. ; she died in 1863, and in 1868, he married Mrs. 
William Halderman, of Freeport ; he lives at Cedarville, where he is very highly 
esteemed as an active and public-spirited citizen ; he was energetic in his support of the 
Union cause during the war; in 1864, he aided in the organization of the Second 
National Bank of Freeport, and was elected its President; he retains that position at 
the present time ; he is regarded throughout the district as a political leader of the 
higes e t type, and, both politically and socially, enjoys the confidence of all classes ; he 
has b en urged, upon several occasions, to become a candidate for Congress, to which he 
could have been elected, with but little, if any, opposition, but has declined ; he is a 
gentleman of fine culture and of sound judgment, and has justly earned prominence in 
public estimation in both civil and private affairs. 

DANIEL ADAMSON, house, sign and ornamental and decorative painter, 
and dealer in paints, oils, and was wall paper, 89 Stephenson street ; is a native of 
Manchester, England, and glass born Aug. 23, 1834; he grew up and attended school 



612 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

there, and was educated in his present business in England, principally under the Gov- 
ernment; he attended the school of design seven and a half years, graduated and was 
awarded diplomas and medals for his proficiency in his profession ; he afterward engaged 
in teaching for several years ; in 1857, he came to Toronto, and was engaged in portrait 
painting there; then came to New York, where he engaged in art and decorative paint- 
ing ; he came to Freeport in 1862, and established his present business in a small way 
in a room only sixteen feet square, and from that small beginning he has built up his 
present extensive business, extending from Chicago to Western Iowa. There are very 
few persons so thoroughly educated in their profession as Mr. Adamson ; in frescoing 
art and decorative painting he excels, and the fine character of work done by him through 
Illinois and Iowa, testify to his taste and ability. He carries a large stock of all kinds 
of goods of the best quality in his line, and conducts the leading business in paints, 
oils, glass, wall paper, in this section of the State. 

LOUIS AHSENDORFF, of the firm of Ahsendorff & Bonn, dealers in 
dry goods and groceries, cor. Galena avenue and Galena street ; is a native of Germany, 
and was born in Prussia March 27, 1827 ; he emigrated to America in 1849, and came 
West to Galena, and worked in the lead mines, and came to Freeport in 1852 ; he 
opened a paint shop, and was afterward clerk in a store, and has been engaged in mer- 
cantile business for past twenty years. He has held the office of Assistant Supervisor, 
and is identified with the interests of the city. 

C APT. PHIJL. ARNO, dealer in wines and liquors, 53 Stephenson street ; 
is a native of Germany, and was born in Bavaria July 30, 1837 ; he came to the United 
States in 1846 ; lived in Rochester six years, then came to Milwaukee ; came to Stephen- 
son Co., and located in Freeport, in January 1858, and engaged in the coopering business. 
When the war broke out, he enlisted in 1861, in the 46th I. V. 1. and was 
elected 1st Lieut. Co. C ; he was in the service over three years ; he was promoted and 
commissioned Captain and brevetted Major ; he participated in all the battles of the 
regiment except one, and then was prevented by sickness. After the war he returned, 
and since then has been engaged in business here. He belongs to Evergreen Lodge, A. 
F. & A. M.. and to Freeport Lodge, I. 0. O. F., Germania Society, and the Fire 
Department. In 1863, Capt. Arno was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Albright, a 
native of Pennsylvania; they have five children — Sarah G, Willie P., Maggie A., 
Edward C., and Emma L. 

JOHN ARTHUR, foreman, shops C. & N. W. R. R. ; is a native of 
England, and was born in 1828 ; he grew up to manhood there, and came to the United 
States in 1850; he came to Stephenson Co. in 1864, and .located in Freeport, and 
entered the employ of the C. & N. W. R. R., and since then, for the past sixteen years, 
has been connected with the company here. He has held his present position of fore- 
man since 1874. In 1819, Mr. Arthur was united in marriage to Miss Harriet Davis, 
a native of England ; they have four children — William, Emma, John, Daniel. 

BREVET MAJ. «EN. SMITH 1>. ATKINS, lawyer, soldier 
and journalist, was born June 9, 1835, near Elmira, Chemung Co., N. Y., and removed 
to Illinois, with his father's family, in 1848, living on a farm until 1850 ; he then 
entered the office of the Prairie Democrat to learn the art of printing ; this was the first 
paper published in Freeport ; he was educated at Rock River Seminary, Mt. Morris, 111., 
working in the printing office and studying during his spare hours, and, in 1852, 
obtained the foremanship of the Mt. Morris Gazette, while yet a student; in June, 1853, 
associated with C. C. Allen, late Major on the staff of Maj. Gen. Schofield ; he bought 
out this paper, and established the Register at Savannah, Carroll Co.; in the fall of the 
same year, he entered the office of Hiram Bright, in Freeport, as a student at law, and 
was admitted to practice June 27, 1855 ; after his admission, he continued to read law 
for some time in the office of Goodrich & Scoville, Chicago, and then entered upon his 
practice in Freeport, dating his entry into the active duties of his high profession Sept. 1 , 
1856 ; in 1860, he made a spirited canvass for the election of Lincolu to the Presidency, 
and one address of his, delivered in this campaign, which was a careful and thorough 



FREEPORT. 613 

review of the Dred-Scott decision, went through several editions ; he was elected State's 
Attorney for the Fourteenth Judicial Circuit of Illinois, and on April 17, 1861, while 
trying a criminal case in Stephenson Circuit Court, a telegram was received stating that 
President Lincoln had issued his first call for troops to suppress the rebellion ; he imme- 
diately drafted in the court-room an enlistment roll, which he headed with his own 
name, being the first man to enlist as a private soldier in his county ; he then announced 
to the court and the jury his decision to prepare without delay for service in the Union 
army ; leaving the half-finished case in the hands of a brother attorney, he hastened out 
of the court-room with his enlistment roll, and went into the streets of Freeport to find 
men to join ; before dusk, one hundred had signed the roll, and in the evening a com- 
pany organization was formed with him in the position of Captain. He and his com 
panions-in-arms went to Springfield, where they were mustered in as Company A of the 
11th I. V. I. ; upon the expiration of his three months' service, he re-enlisted for three 
years as a private, and was again mustered in as Captain of Company A, 11th I. V. I., 
at Bird's Point ; he was at Ft. Donelson, with the unexpired order of leave of absence 
on account of sickness, in his pocket, when the command of " Forward " was given ; he 
took sixty-eight men into this desperate engagement, and came out with but twenty- 
three left, having been in the very thickest of the carnage ; for gallant services at Ft. 
Donelson, he was promoted to the position of Major of the 11th Regiment, and went on the 
staff of Gen. Hurlburt as Acting Assistant Adjutant General by the special assignment 
of Gen. Grant, and, in that capacity, was engaged with Hurlburt in the battle of Pitts- 
burg Landing, his bravery and conspicuous services securing special mention in the gen- 
eral orders after that fight ; ill health, brought on by exhausting labors and exposure, 
compelled his resignation after the affair of Pittsburg Landing, and he spent the two 
subsequent months on the sea coast ; he recruited in time to take the stump to raise 
troops under the call of 1862, and enlisted in the 92d Illinois Regiment, which was mus- 
tered in, with himself as Colonel, on Sept. <!, 1862 ; he was in command of this regi- 
ment until Jan. 17, 1863, when he was placed in command of a brigade. While the 
92d was at Mt. Sterling, Ky., Col. Atkins being in charge of it, a grave issue arose; it 
was the first Yankee regiment which had visited that section, and hundreds of slaves 
flocked to its camp begging for protection, and offering their services or their blood for 
freedom ; they refused to return to their masters, and, when their owners demanded 
them as chattels, Col. Atkins declined to entertain the peremptory request that his force 
should be used to drive them back ; the owners appealed to the commander of the bri- 
gade, a Kentuckian, who ordered Atkins to return the slaves, but the latter persistently 
declined to do this, and never did, his reasons being that he was not responsible for the 
escapade of the slaves, and that his men had not enlisted to act in the capacity of blood- 
hounds to hunt them down and drive them back. On June 17, 1863, he was placed in 
command of the 2d Brigade, 3d Division, Army of Kentucky, which he commanded 
while in the Department of the Ohio ; when the 92d Regiment was removed to the 
Department of the Cumberland, he was placed in command of the 1st Brigade, 1st 
Division of the Reserve Corps, and, when the regiment was mounted and transferred to 
Wilder's Brigade of Mounted Infantry, he accompanied and commanded it, until trans- 
ferred to Kilpatrick's Cavalry Division. When Gen. Kilpatrick re-formed his division 
preparatory to the great march with Sherman, he assigned the command of the 2d Bri- 
gade to Col. Atkins ; when Sherman advanced southward, he aimed to throw his army 
between the rebel forces and Savannah ; the task of deceiving the enemy and holding 
them while this movement was being effected was given by Kilpatrick to Col. Atkins 
and his brigade, and he skillfully accomplished it; at Clinton, he charged the enemy and 
drove them fourteen miles to Macon ; he assaulted their lines about the city, and forced 
them into their works, and held them there until Sherman swept to the eastward, leav- 
ing him with the enemy in his rear, and nothing before him to impede his rapid prog- 
ress. In all the engagements in which he participated with his brigade, Col. Atkins 
greatly distinguished himself, and especially so at Waynesboro, where Wheeler and his 
cavalry were overwhelmingly defeated ; while leading the charge of his troops against 
the rebel columns, his color-bearer was shot down by his side, and his brigade flag 



614 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

attracted the attention of the enemy, who poured in upon it their concentrated fire ; in 
this terrific storm of leaden hail, he bore a charmed life, leading prominently in the van 
and cheering on his troops to victory. At Savannah, he was brevetted Brigadier Gen- 
eral for gallantry, and was assigned to duty under his commission as Brevet Brigadier 
General by special order of President Lincoln, and at the close of the war, when he was 
mustered out, he was brevetted Major General for faithful and important services. In 
all his stations as a commanding officer he was popular with both the rank and file ; he 
was a perfect disciplinarian, and was kind and considerate to the men under him ; his 
courage and his judgment as a strategist won their confidence, and they readily and 
heartily supported him wherever he went. After his military services, he returned to 
Freeport, where he has since resided. He was the able editor of the Freeport Journal 
until the past four years, and holds the office of Postmaster of the city of Freeport. His 
life has been one of great activity. 

AXSOX A. BABCOCK, retired, residence, Green street ; is a native of 
Cortland Co., N. Y., and was born June 1, 1813; he grew up and attended school 
there ; after reaching manhood, in February, 1837, he was united in marriage to Miss 
Harriet Price, a native of Cortland Co., N. Y.; on the 12th of February, 1839, they 
started West with horse and sleigh ; at the end of the first day, they reached Auburn, 
N. Y.; while coming through Michigan they met a number of persons who did not like 
the " West," and were returning to their old homes East, which was not very encourag- 
ing to the young emigrants ; they were four weeks on the road ; they visited a brother 
of Mr. Babcock, living a few miles west of Chicago, then came to Stephenson Co., and 
arrived here in March of the same year and settled in Bidott Township, and began 
making a farm ; after living there three years, moved in Florence Township ; he bought 
a claim and entered it from the Government when the land came into market ; he carted 
three hundred bushels of wheat one winter to Chicago, by team ; Mr. Babcock was one 
of the pioneer settlers in this county, and has always been one of its progressive rep- 
resentative men ; he has held the offices of Collector and Assessor, and has been sev- 
eral times elected a member of the Board of Supervisors. Mr. and Mrs. Babcock have 
four children — James (living here), Sarah (now Mrs. J. Hance, living in this county), 
Mariette (now Mrs. Aspinwall, living in Grand Bapids, Mich.), Helen A. (now Mrs. 
Hart, living in Benton Co., Iowa ; they lost one son (Burton) in infancy. 

F. S. BABCOCK, manufacturer of cigars and wholesale and retail dealer 
in cigars, tobacco and smokers' goods, Stephenson street, opposite the Brewster House ; 
is a native of Cortland Co., N. Y., and was born Nov. 11, 1851 ; his parents came 
West to Stephenson Co. in 1856, and he grew up and attended school here; he 
established his present business in 1878; he manufactures several very popular 
brands of cigars, the " Mabel," the " Silvie " and the " X-10-U-8," and is building up 
a good trade. Mr. Babcock was united in marriage to Miss Ella M. Burrell Feb. 23, 
1876 ; she died May 11, 1880, leaving one daughter (Mabel). 

I. J. BABCOCK, architect and builder, Clay street ; is a native of Cort- 
land Co., N. Y., and was born Dec. 18, 1818 ; he grew up there, and in 1836 came to 
Illinois, to Babcock's Grove, a few miles west of Chicago, where his brothers located in 
1833, just after the Black Hawk War ; Mr. Babcock remained with his brothers two 
years, and came to Stephenson Co. in 1838 ; the following year he went back to 
New York State, and in 1856 returned here and located permanently and en- 
gaged in building ; he has been engaged in building over a quarter of a century ; 
he was superintendent of building the Stephenson County Court House, and for 
his efficiency in that position he was presented with a handsome gold watch, 
inscribed as follows: "Presented to Ira Babcock, Superintendent of Freeport Court 
House, by the architect, E. E. Myers, for the faithful carrying-out of the plans of the 
building, 1873." In 1842, Mr. Babcock was united in marriage to Miss Abagail M. 
Curtis, bornin Cayuga Co., N. Y.;they have four children — Edward O., Frank S., Alice 
A. and Mary C. 

IiELAXD A. BABCOCK, physician and surgeon, Chicago street, 
third south of Washington street ; is a native of Troy, N. Y., and was born April 29, 
1818; he grew up and attended school there, then entered Union College, Mass., and 



FREEPORT. 615 

graduated from that institution ; he studied medicine and surgery with the eminent 
surgeon, Dr. Valentine Mott, of the city of New York ; in 1844, he went abroad, and 
spent about three years ; for a year and a half was a student in Paris, under the 
eminent surgeon Velpeaux ; he traveled extensively through Europe, Asia, and Egypt 
and Palestine; after his return to his native land, in 1848, he came West to Chicago; 
in July, 1861, he came to Stephenson Co., and located in Freeport, and since then 
has practiced his profession here ; Dr. Babcock has done much to advance the inter- 
ests uf the profession; he has perfected several important inventions for the relief of 
the suffering — the silver speculum, the silver adjuster and the hernia truss ; he has 
delivered many lectures, and written much for the profession ; there is probably no 
physician in Northern Illinois who has so many calls outside of his regular practice. 
In 1867, Dr. Babcock married Miss Ellen Bechtol, a native of this county; they have 
one son — Leland. 

HENRY BAIER, of the firm of Baier & Seyfarth, proprietors of the Free- 
port Brewery, corner of Adams and Jackson streets ; is a native of Germany, and 
was born in Bavaria, May 7, 1836 ; his parents came to this country in 1843, and the 
same year came to Stephenson Co.; he grew up to manhood here ; he has engaged in 
business here since 1855 ; he associated with Mr. Seyfarth, and engaged in their present 
business in 1869 ; ho has held the office of City Alderman. In 1860. he married Miss 
Johanna Seyfarth, of this city; they have two children, Emma and Alma. Mr. Baier 
belongs to the Germania Society, and is a member of the order of I. 0. 0. F. 

FRED BAKER, retired, residence, Galena avenue; is a native of Orange 
Co., Ind., and was born Nov. 1, 1820; his parents removed to Sangamon Co., 111., in 
1823 ; in the spring of 1827, they came to the lead-mining region in Jo Daviess Co. ; 
in 1829, they went back to Peoria ; in the spring of 1832, they came again to the lead- 
mining country in La Fayette Co., Wis.; during the Black Hawk war, he was forted in 
Ft. Defiance ; after the war, he was in Dubuque two years ; he and his father came to 
what is now Freeport, Dec. 19, 1835 ; his mother came the following February ; his 
father opened a trading-post with the Indians ; they kept tavern, and had to accommo- 
date every one that came along. Mr. Baker's father entered and owned the land where 
the city of Freeport is now located. Mr. Fred Baker was united in marriage, Feb. 1 1 , 
" 1841, to Miss Clarinda Crain ; she was born in Randolph Co., 111., Dec. 15, 1819; her 
father came to Carroll Co. in 1829. Mr. Baker held the office of Constable, Deputy 
Sheriff for fifteen years, and was Acting Sheriff a portion of the time; afterward 
engaged in farming in Silver Creek Township until 1879, when he sold his farm and 
came to the city. Mr. Baker has been elected and served as a member of the Board of 
Supervisors many years ; he has also held the office of Justice of the Peace, Road Com- 
missioner, and other town and school offices. Mr. Baker helped cut and draw the first 
stick of timber put in the first building erected in Freeport. Mr. and Mrs. Baker are 
among the very earliest settlers, and there are very few now living who have as clear 
and accurate a recollection of the earliest days of what was then included in Jo Daviess 
Co.; they have had eight children, only three of whom survive — one daughter Harrier, 
now Mrs. Joseph Weaver, and two sons, John and Frank, both married, and all living 
in Freeport. 

ElilAS BAMBERGER, carpenter and builder, Apple street ; was born 
in Lebanon Co., Penn., July 8, 1834; he came West to Illinois in 1851, located in 
Stephenson Co., and learned the trade of carpenter and joiner. In 1861, he married 
Barbara Sechrist, from York Co., Penn. ; she died in August, 1875, leaving three 
children — John, Luella M. and Ida M. In 1878, Mr. Bamberger married Lovina 
Hennersheets, from Berks Co., Penn. ; they have one daughter — Minnie. Mr. Bam- 
berger is one of the oldest builders in the county. 

W. O. & W. BARNES, manufacturers and jobbers of farm imple- 
ments and agricultural machinery; established 1865. Factory, office and salesrooms 
on Stephenson, Mechanic and Bridge streets, Freeport. 

H. M. BARNIIHI, of the firm of Barton & Barnum, attorneys and coun 
selors at law, Galena avenue, opposite court house; is a native of Addison Co., Vt., 

Y 



616 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

and was born Feb. 6, 1835 ; he grew up aud attended school there, and afterward 
entered Middlebury College and graduated from that institution in the class of 1858 ; 
the following year, he came west to Illinois and located in Freeport, where he studied 
law and was admitted to the bar in 1861 ; he engaged in teaching, and was Principal of 
the high school until 1864, when he became associated with II. C. Burchard and E. P. 
Barton, in the practice of law, the firm being Burchard, Barton & Barnum, until 1871, 
when Mr. Burchard retired, having been elected to Congress ; since then the firm of 
Barton & Barnum have been leading attorneys here ; Mr. Barnum has held the offices 
of Justice of i he Peace, City Attorney and school offices. Mr. Barnum was united in 
marriage, Aug. 8, 1864, to Miss Ellen P. Wright, a native of Addison Co., Vt. 

FREDERIC BARTLETT, wholesale and retail dealer in hardware and 
iron, Stephenson street, is a native of New York, and was born in the city of Brook- 
lyn, Oct. 7, 1837, his parents being William and Mary (Crie) Bartlett ; he received his 
early education in the common schools, and, by a full and comprehensive course in 
the Polytechnic Academy in his native place received a substantial knowledge of the arts 
and sciences, and of the rules so necessary in the transaction of general business ; upon 
leaving school, he entered a hardware house in New York City as clerk, and subsequently 
became its buyer ; in 1855, he came west to Illinois, and located in Freeport, and estab- 
lished his present business, the firm being Churchill, Maverick & Bartlett; in 1858, Mr. 
Maverick retired, and was followed by Mr. Churchill in 1860, since which time, over 
twenty years, Mr. Bartlett has carried on the business in his own name; at first, the 
transactions of the house were small, but by the application of Mr. Bartlett, and by his 
honorable method of dealing, the business soon grew into very large proportions. It now 
includes, besides ordinary hardware, iron, wagon and buggy stock, seasoned and ready 
for use, stoves, hollow-ware, combining several distinct businesses in one ; Mr. Bartlett is a 
careful business man, fair dealing in all his mercantile transactions, enterprising, gener- 
ous and courteous to all who approach him ; and his success in life is owing to his own 
efforts. 

E. P. BARTON, of the firm of Barton & Barnum, attorneys and counselors 
at law, Galena ave., opposite court house, is a native of Oneida Co., New York, and was 
born June 5, 1829 ; he grew up and attended school there, and afterward entered 
Hamilton College, and graduated in the class of 1851 ; after graduating he studied law, 
and was admitted to the bar in 1852 ; he practiced law in Brooklyn until 1855, when 
he came West to Illinois and located in Freeport, and engaged in the practice of his pro- 
fession the following year ; he associated with Thos. I. Turner and H. C. Burchard, the 
firm being Turner, Burchard & Barton ; in 1858, Mr. Turner retired, and the firm 
became Burchard & Barton ; in 1864, H. M. Barnum was admitted a member of the 
firm ; and the firm of Burchard, Barton & Barnum continued until 1871, when Mr. 
Burchard retired, having been elected to Congress; since 1871, the firm of Barton & 
Barnum has been the leading law firm in this city. Mr. Barton was united in marriage 
to Miss Mary A. Walker, a native of Chautauqua Co., New York, Oct. 13, 1864; they 
have two daughters — Alice M. and Anna E. 

FRED BAUCH, florist and gardener, Galena avenue, was born in Prussia, 
April 27, 1832; he came to the United States in 1853, and came to Stephenson Co. 
the same year ; a few years later, he established his present business in a small way, and 
he has successlully continued the business for twenty-five years, and has built up a good 
trade ; he owns twenty acres finely improved ; he built his large, commodious residence 
in the fall of 1879. In 1857, Mr. Bauch married Miss Barbara Wyant, a uative of 
Prussia; they have ten children — Ida, Fred, Emma, Louie, Matilda, Louise, Eddie, 
Mary, Clara and John. 

CHARLES BAU1IGARTEN, retired, is a native of Loraine, France, 
and was born July 6, 1817 ; he emigrated to America in 1833, came West to Detroit, 
Mich., and lived there two years, and in 1835 came to Chicago, walking all the way ; 
at that time Chicago contained only three thousand people, and was not incorporated ; 
he was employed in the Government works, and was there when Gen. Scott was 
there ; he is one of the oldest members of the Old Settlers' Association of Chicago ; in 



FREEPORT. 617 

1850, Mr. Baumgarten came to Freeport and engaged in contracting on railroads, and 
has lived here most of the time for the past thirty years ; he built the Keystone Hotel i 
he was elected City Marshal ; he was elected City Surveyor, and held that office seven 
years ; when he began life, he had nothing, and earned what he has by his energy and 
industry. He was united in marriage, Dec. 26, 18-42, to Miss Mary Anna Frett, a 
native of Prussia ; they have six children, four daughters — Amelia, Rosa, Justina and 
Pauline, living in St. Louis — and two sons, John, civil engineer, in the Government 
service, Washington, D. C, and Albert, engaged in bu«iness here. 

DR. J. H. BEAUMONT, homoeopathic physician and surgeon, office, 
Opera House Block, is a native of New York State, and was born in Champlain, Clinton 
Co., Feb. 12, 1818; he grew up and attended school there, and began reading medicine ; 
he came West to Northern Indiana, and in 1849 he came to Stephenson Co. and located 
in Freeport; he began the study of medicine under allopathic system, but being con- 
vinced in his own mind of the superior advantages of the principles of Hahnemann, he 
pursued his studies under that system, and graduated at Hahnemann Medical College, 
Chicago, in 1863, and since then has practiced his profession here, and has a large and 
leading practice. In 1879, Dr. Beaumont was elected President of the Illinois Homoeo- 
pathic State Medical Association ; he is also a member of the American Institute of 
Homoeopathy. Dr. Beaumont married Miss Alcista M. Bedee, a native of Kutland, 
Vt. ; they have three children — Emma A., now Mrs. Clark, of this city ; Rose A , now 
Mrs. Dr. Currier, of Sycamore, 111.; John F., physician, after pursuing a thorough 
course of study, and graduating at Hahnemann Medical College, Philadelphia, he went to 
New York, and took a regular course in the Ophthalmic Hospital connected with New 
York Homoeopathic College. 

i?IRS. HELENA BECK, whose maiden name was Helena Reiser, was 
born in Wurtemberg, Germany, in 1818 ; she grew up there, and came to America in 
1847, and lived in Milford, Mass. In 1849, she married Frank Hertrich, a native of 
Bavaria, Germany ; they came to Stephenson Co. in 1857 ; he engaged in the brewing 
business ; his death occurred in 1861 ; they had five children, all born in Milford, 
Mass., and only three are living — Helena, Paulina and Martha. In October, 1866, 
she married Charles T. Beck, a native of Bavaria, Germany ; he died in November, 
1867 ; they had one son, Charles Frank. 

W. L. BEE BE, retired farmer and stock-raiser, residence Galena avenue ; 
is a native of New York State, and was born Feb. 9, 1812 ; he grew up in that State. 
After reaching manhood, on the 11th of June, 1835, he was united in marriage to Miss 
Sallie Ann Tripp, a native of Seneca Co., NT. Y. ; they came to Michigan in 1838, and 
remained in that State two years; in 1840, they came to Illinois, bringing their furni- 
ture with them on a wagon, and beside that they had only $30 in money when they 
crossed the river at Oregon, in Ogle Co., where they settled. Mrs. Beebe lived in a 
shanty while her husband made several trips to Chicago with his team ; Mr. Beebe bor- 
rowed $50 and with this money entered 40 acres of land ; he and his wife both say that 
they felt rich when they owned their first 40 acres ; he entered 40 acres more ; they 
made a farm, and with industry and economy prospered ; lived in that county until 
1862, and owned 600 acres of land, when they came to Stephenson Co. and engaged 
in farming and raising fine stock, and since then have lived in this county. Mr. Beebe 
had nothing when he began ; one winter he thrashed with a flail 2,200 bushels of grain, 
and ustd to cart grain with his team for 50 cents a day; he owns a large, valuable 
farm adjoining the city, and also owns one in Ogle Co. Mr. and Mrs. Be 'be have eight 
children — Robert S., Henry T., Alexander I., Nancy E., Clarissa C., Milton B., Philip 
S. and Frank C. ; Mrs. Beebe's mother died in November, 1876 ; her father, 89 years 
old, and her six sisters and three brothers, are all living ; her brother, Robert Tripp, 
helped to capture Jefferson Davis during the war ; Mr. Beebe's father came to Ogle 
Co. in 1837 ; he lived and died on the claim he first made, and was past 91 years of 
age at the time of his death. 

ROBERT BELL, proprietor of the Tremont House, corner of Clay and 
Chicago streets, is a native of Pennsylvania, and was born in Lebanon Co. Dee. 19, 



618 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

1813; he grew up to manhood in that State; in April, 1843, he and his brother 
started for the West ; they rode on horseback all the way to Illinois, and arrived in 
Stephenson Co. in June, 1843; they located on Cedar Creek and began making a farm. 
In 1845, Mr. Beil was united in marriage to Miss Eliza Ann McCool, from Lewisburg, 
Union Co., Penn. ; she came with her parents to this county in 1841. Mr. Bell con- 
tinued farming until 1877, when he came into the city, and in 1879 he opened the 
Tremont House ; he held the offices of County Supervisor, Road Commissioner and 
School Director. Mr. and Mrs. Bell have five children — Ellen Mary, now Mrs. Laird, 
in Nebraska ; James, living in Kansas ; Lucretia, Joseph and Eva at home. 

DAVID BENSON, cashier for Mrs. J. Benson, dealer in fancy dry goods and 
notions, Opera House Block, 120 Stephenson street ; is a native of Ohio, and was born in 
Cincinnati Sept. 2, 1825 ; he came to Rock Island in 1856. During the war he entered 
the service, enlisting in the 12th I. V. I., and was commissioned Captain of Co. D ; he 
afterward entered the service of the Illinois Central Railroad, and remained with that 
company eight years. In 1864, Mr. Benson was united in marriage to Miss Jeanette 
Brown, a native of Michigan ; they came to Freeport in 1872, and Mrs. Benson estab- 
lished her present business ; she buys all of her goods, has the entire management of 
the business, and has successfully carried it on for the past eight years, having built up 
a large trade. 

H. D. BENTLEY, dealer in pianos, organs and all kinds of musical instru- 
ments and sheet music, No. 144 Stephenson street ; is a native of England, and was 
born in the city of London Dec. 5, 1848; his parents came to the United States in 
1851 ; they came to Stephenson Co. and located in Freeport the same year ; he grew 
up and received his education here ; after leaving school, he entered the music store of 
Pelton & Pomeroy ; he went to Chicago with this firm and was book-keeper and cashier, 
and afterward did the buying for the extensive business of that house ; he remained 
there five years, and in 1879 established his present business ; he has had a large 
practical experience in the music business ; he has unusual facilities for buying the best 
instruments, and by his energy is building up a large trade. Mr. Bentley was united 
in marriage Dec. 27, 1875, to Miss Elida Jane Pattison, daughter of Richard Pattison, 
of this city ; they have one son — Charles Johnson. 

AUGUST BERGMAN, of the firm of Bergman & Dorman, livery sta- 
ble and dealers in agricultural implements, Bridge and Exchange streets; is a native of 
Prussia, Germany, and was born Sept. 27, 1835; he came to the United States in 
1852, and the same year came to Stephenson Co., and settled in Freeport ; he soon after 
engaged in making brick, and continued for eight years; in 1864, he engaged in the 
livery business, and, in 1867, he also engaged in the sale of farm machinery, in a small 
shanty ; they have carried on the business for thirteen years ; their trade has steadily 
increased, until now they have become one of the largest dealers in agricultural imple- 
ments in the Northwest; their large and commodious brick block, fronting on Bridge 
and Van Buren streets, is fully occupied with their business. Mr. Bergman was elected 
Street Commissioner in 1864; he has held the office of Alderman six years, and other 
town offices. Mr. Bergman was united in marriage to Miss Mary Scharer, from Mary- 
land, April 12, 1864; they have five children — August H., William, Mary, Minnie and 
Edith. 

S. J. BEST, physician and surgeon, Stephenson St., Freeport ; is a native of 
Clinton Co., Penn., and was born June 22, 1837 ; his parents came West to Illinois 
during his early boyhood, and located in Stephenson Co. in 1847 ; he grew up and 
attended school here, then entered the seminary at Mt. Morris, where he remained five 
years ; he began reading medicine here for a short time, then went East and pursued 
his studies in the city of Philadelphia for five years, under the preceptorship of his 
uncle, Dr. A. J. Crotzer, and graduated at Jefferson Medical College in 1860; after 
graduating, he returned to Freeport and engaged in the practice of medicine, and baa 
practiced his profession here for twenty years ; he is a member of the Stephenson County 
Medical Society. In April, 1864, Dr. Best was united in marriage to Miss Kate S. 



FREEPORT. 619 

Wolf, a native of Union Co., Penn. ; they have five children — Charles, Nellie, Harry, 
James and an infant daughter. 

CHARLES BETTS, attorney at law ; is a native of Batavia, N. Y. and was 
born June 13, 1824; he grew up and received his education in that State; he entered 
the law office of Redfield & Pringle, and began reading law ; he afterward continued his 
studies in the office of Hon. Isaac A. Verplank and Hon. John H. Martindale ; he was 
admitted to the. bar at Rochester, N. Y., in 1847 ; the following year, he emigrated to 
the State of Illinois, and located at Freeport, which was then a very small place ; he 
engaged in the practice of law. In the political campaign of 1852, when quite a young 
man, he received, unsolicited, the nomination of the Whig party for the office of Auditor 
General of the State of Illinois ; since the political revolution of the country of 1858, 
Mr. Betts has acted with the Democratic party; he indorsed the sentiments and prin 
ciples of Hon Stephen A. Douglas, and supported him with all his energies, and was 
his firm friend until his death ; at the Congressional Convention of the Democratic 
party of the Third Congressional District in 1870, he received, without solicitation, the 
nomination for Congress in this district, strongly Republican, and, where the candidate 
of his party was defeated two years previous by ten thousand majority, he reduced that 
majority nearly one-half; he continued the practice of his profession until within a short 
time. In August, 1878, Mr. Betts was united in marriage to Miss Mary C. Wilson, a 
native of this city ; they have one daughter. 

BILXKER & REINHOLD, manufacturers and wholesale dealers in 
fine cigars, 84 Stephenson St. ; the business was established in March, 1879, by W. G. 
Billker; he is a native of Germany; he came to Freeport in 1863; in March, 1880, 
Edward Reinhold became associated with him ; he is a native of Baltimore ; he came 
to Freeport in 1867; the firm became Billker & Reinhold; they engaged in manufac- 
turing cigars, and have built up a good trade in this State and in Iowa. 

JOHN BILJLERBECK, proprietor of the Vienna Bakery, Galena street* 
east of Galena avenue; is a native of Prussia, Germany, and was born Nov. 13, 1835 
and came to America in 1853, and came to Freeport the same year; he has been 
engaged in business here over twenty years ; he established his present business, and is 
building up a nice trade. He belongs to the German Benevolent Society and to the Fire 
Department. In 1864, he married Miss Minnie Reineke, a native of Germany; he has 
five children — Anna, Anton, Lotta, Josie and Charlie 

PETER BIX.JLER, manufacturer of woodwork, carriages and buggies, Van 
Buren street, north of Bridge street ; is a native of Pennsylvania, and was born in 
Williamsport, Lycoming Co., Oct. 29, 1847; he grew up and learned his trade there; 
he came West, and located in Freeport, in 1 868, and engaged in his present business in 
1870, and has carried it on since then, and has built up a good trade. He is a member 
of Winnesheik Lod^e, No. 30, [. 0. O. F.,also, a membar Co. C, I. N. G. He married 
Miss Sarah C. Dubbs, a native of Pennsylvania; she died Oct. 26, 1876, leaving two 
sons— Harry F., born Dec. 3, 1870 ; Samuel R., born Dec. 22, 1873. 

DANIEL S. BOGAR, merchant, dealer in dry goods and groceries, 153 
Stephenson street; is a native of Pennsylvania, and was born in Lewisburg, Union Co., 
Aug. 16, 1823 ; he grew up to manhood in that State ; he came to Stephenson Co., in 
1850, but did not locate here permanently until 1852 ; he entered a store as clerk ; he 
was afterward express messenger on the I. C. R. R. In 1860, he engaged in mer- 
cantile business. He has held the office of Postmaster at McConnell's Grove. In 1866, Mr. 
Bogar, was united in marriage to Miss Hattie E. Buckley, a native of Unadilla, Otsego 
Co , New York. They have one daughter — Ettie J. 

GEORGE BORDNER, of the firm of Bordner & Rosebrough, wholesale 
and retail dealers in coal, water lime and stucco ; is a native of Union Co., Pa., and was 
born March 19, 1824; he grew up to manhood in that State; he went to New York 
State, and remained a few years, and came West to Illinois, in 1848, and arrived in Free- 
port, October 24, of that year ; he worked at anything he could find to do, and after- 
ward engaged in farming ; very few men worked harder than Mr. Borduer to get 



620 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

started ; at that time there was very little money to be had ; he has cradled oats for 
20 cents an acre, and had to take store pay; he split rails for Hon. J. H. Addatn3 
for 50 cents per hundred, and walked three miles to his work ; in 186(3, he engaged 
in the livery business, and continued for seven years ; then engaged in shipping horses 
East and South; in 1876 he engaged in his present business. He is also a member of 
the firm of J. E. Rosebrough & Co., grain dealers, at Ashton, 111. Mr. Bordner 
was united in marriage, Oct. 24, 1850, to Miss Lovina Roush, from Center Co., Pa. ; 
they have had eight children, four of whom survive — Minerva M., Etta, Delia and 
Lyma. 

D. B. BREED, of the Journal Printing Co., is a native of New York 
State, and was born in Jamestown, Chautauqua Co., Oct. 1, 1852 ; when 1-1 years of age 
he came to Illinois, and entered the Journal printing office at Amboy, Lee Co. ; the 
following year he came to Freeport and -entered the printing office of the Freeport 
Journal, and has been connected with the office since then, and has filled every position 
from " devil " up ; he has been interested in the business of the office since 1873. He 
holds the office of City Treasurer; was elected to that position in April, 1880. Mr. 
Breed is prominently identified with the Masonic order, and has held the position of 
Secretary of M. R. Thompson Lodge for a number of years. 

M. V. BROWN, dealer in coal, hides,wool, seeds, lime and stucco ; office and yard 
foot of Stephenson street; is a native of Huron Co, Ohio, and was born June 1, 
1838 ; his parents came to Stephenson Co. in 1853 ; he grew up and attended school here ; 
after reaching manhood, he engaged in his present business, and has carried it on for 
the past twenty years; there are few men in this county and adjoining counties, in this 
line of business, who are as well and favorably known, and he has a large established 
trade. Mr. Brown was united in marriage July 24, 1862, in this city, to Miss -Matilda 
S. Sherbondy ; they have one son — William. Mr. Brown is prominently identified 
with the Masonic order, having taken all the degrees except the 33d. 

BENJAMIN T. BUCKLEY, physician and surgeon, Exchange street, 
opposite court house ; is a native of Unadilla, Otsego Co., N. Y., and was born Sept,, 
18, 1825; he grew up and attended school there, and came West to Illinois, with his 
father and family; they arrived in Stephenson Co. in April, 1846; they located in 
Harlem Township, only a short distance from the city; he studied medicine, and 
attended lectures at Rush Medical College, Chicago, and graduated from that institu- 
tion in 1852 ; after graduating, he engaged in the practice of medicine, and since then 
has practiced his profession here, except four years he practiced in California. He has 
held the office of Examining Surgeon for Pensions, and has served in the City Council. 
In October, 1857, Dr. Buckley was united in marriage to Miss Lila A. Sabin, from 
Ohio ; they have two sons — Charles S. and Benjamin R. 

HON. HORATIO C. BURCHARD, Director of the United States 
Mints, was born at Marshall, Oneida Co., N. Y., Sept. 22, 1825 ; his parents were 
Horatio Burchard and Frances (Chapin) Burchard, both of Springfield, Mass. ; in 
1840, he removed with the family to Beloit, Wis. ; he atteuded school there, and after- 
ward entered Hamilton College, New York, and graduated from that institution in 
1850 ; he studied law, and was admitted to the bar in Monroe, Green Co., Wis., in 
1852 ; in 1854, he took charge of the Freeport, 111., schools, as General Manager and 
Head Teacher ; in 1855, he became associated with Thomas I. Turner, under the style 
of Turner & Burchard, for the practice of law; in 1856, E. P. Barton, Esq., was 
admitted as a partner, and, T. I. Turner retiring in 1858, the firm of Burchard & 
Barton was continued until 1864, when H. M. Barnum, Esq., was added to the firm, 
which continued until 1871, when Mr. Burchard retired from the firm after being 
elected to Congress ; in 1862, he engaged in mercantile business, in the hardware trade, 
and associated with his brother, Jesse Burchard, under the firm name of H. C. Burch- 
ard & Bro., which was continued until 1869, while in the interim, he was professionally 
and successfully occupied in the courts of Stephenson and adjoining counties. From 
1857 to 1860, he was School Commissioner of Stephenson Co., 111.; in 1863 and 1865, 
he was a prominent member of the Legislature of Illinois ; in the session of 1863, he 



FREEPORT. 621 

was a member of the Committee on Claims, and in that of 1865, was Chairman of the 
Committee on Banks and Corporations ; during the war session of the Legislature he 
warmly and efficiently sustained the war measures of Gov. Yates for the support of 
the war and the relief of the soldiers ; he introduced and supported several very im- 
portant bills, which became laws upon our statute books, among them was the bill allow- 
ing the soldiers to vote, and the Registration law ; he was prominent in opposing and 
defeating the bill introduced by the Democrats, for the purpose of taking the appoint- 
ing power from Gov. Yates, and vesting it in a Commission ; he introduced the bill 
authorizing the payment of bounties to soldiers. In 1869, he was elected to Congress, 
at a special election held to fill the vacancy occasioned by the resignation of E. B. 
Washburne ; he was successively elected to the 42d, 43d, 44th and 45th Congresses; 
during the 41st Congress, serving upon the Committee on Banking and Currency, of 
which Gen. Garfield was chairman, the first speeches of Mr. Burchard were in connec- 
tion with the tariff question, in the earliest of which he discussed the subject at length ; 
he also discussed largely the subject of the currency, dwelling on the office of money, 
the necessary supply of coin, the value of circulation required, the actual amount in 
circulation in our own and other countries, and several other important questions ; the 
conclusion of his able speech was as follows : " We ar->, returning safely, slowly, surely, 
to the goal of a sound, redeemable currency, from which eight years ago we, perhaps 
necessarily, departed ; the country rejoices to see the national credit restored, and a 
stable standard of value regained, unaided by Congressional legislation, and controlled 
by the higher laws of trade and commerce during the present session ; the difference 
between the paper and specie standard has diminished half; without shock to business 
or financi 1 revulsion, gold has fallen from 180 to 10 per cent premium, and almost 
gained the point of departure." At the beginning of his second term of Congress, 
his mastery of economical and financial subjects was recognized in his appointment on 
the Committee of Ways and Means ; by careful and exhaustive study of the questions 
that came before him, and by the force of argument with which he sustained his con- 
clusions on the floor, he proved himself one of the ablest members of this important 
committee; he was continued upon the Committee of Ways and Means during the 
remainder of his Congressional service ; after his election to the 45th Congress, the 
grave question arose as to the method of counting the Electoral votes ; a committee 
was appointed to inquire into the privileges, powers and duties of the House of Repre- 
sentatives ; he was appointed on that committee, and presented, on behalf of the Repub- 
lican members, a minority report ; he brought forth other important measures, one rela- 
ting to the laws of internal revenue, another bill authorizing the receiving of postal 
saving deposits, a bill which authorized the Secretary of the Treasury to receive saving 
deposits through the money-order post offices ; the latter received favorable report from 
the Committee of Ways and Means, and was placed upon the general calendar, and was 
not reached for action on the House calendar. In February, 1879, Mr. Burchard re- 
ceived the appointment of Director of the United States Mints, and entered upon the 
duties of his office on the 5th of the following month. In politics, he is a firm and 
consistent Republican, and to the support of his party brings abilities of no mean order, 
and the prestige of an honorable reputation and unsullied record. Mr. Burchard was 
united in marriage May 15, 1861, to Miss Jane Lawver, daughter of M. Lawver, an 
old and honored resident of Stephenson Co. ; they have one son — Edward Lawver, 
born Sept. 5, 1867. 

JESSE BURCHARD, of the firm of Burchard & Scott, wholesale and 
retail dealers in hardware, iron and carriage stock, 119 Stephenson street; is a native of 
Oneida Co., N. Y., and was born Dec. 9, 1830 ; when 10 years of age, his parents came 
West to Beloit, Wis., in 1840, and he grew up to manhood in that State; he came to 
Stephenson Co. and located in Freeport in 1862, and engaged in the hardware trade, the 
firm being H. C. Burchard & Brother, he having the active management of the busi- 
ness ; Mr. Burchard has successfully carried on the business for the past seventeen 
years; in 1875, the firm became Burchard & Scott; they have a large wholesale and 
retail trade, they carry a large stock, and are one of the heaviest mercantile firms in this 



622 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

section of the State. Mr. Burchard was united in marriage May 29, 1866, to Miss 
Lizzie C. Fry, daughter of Hon. C. J. Fry, of this city ; they have four children — 
Charles J., George H., Mary E. and Fannie. 

J. C. BIJRBA1VK, homoeopathic physician and surgeon ; office, Munn's 
Block, corner of Stephenson and Van Buren streets ; is a native of Bradford Co., Penn., 
and was born in the town of Towanda ; he grew up and received his education in that 
State : he studied medicine, and graduated at the Pennsylvania Homoeopathic Medical 
College in 1856 ; he is also a graduate of the Pennsylvania Hospital ; he came West to 
Illinois in 1856, and located at Polo, Ogle Co., and practiced his profession there until 
1H69, when he removed to Janesville, Wis.; in 1873, he came to Freeport, and since 
then has practiced his profession here. Dr. Burbank has held the position of Vice Presi- 
dent of the Illinois Homoeopathic Medical Society ; while living in Ogle Co., held vari- 
ous town and school offices ; he has no taste for office, and devotes his whole energies to 
his profession. Dr. Burbank was united in marriage, Jan. 19, 1860, to Miss Martha 
M. Belding, a native of Bradford Co., Penn.; they have four children — Hattie B., Wil- 
bur A., Fred and Roy : they have lost one daughter, Sophia. 

JOHN III ' RRKLL, of the firm of Emmert & Burrell, wholesale and retail 
dealers in drugs, medicines, paints and oils, No. Ill Stephenson street; is a native of 
Westmoreland Co., Penn., and was born Feb. 20, 1830 ; he grew up and attended 
school there ; after reaching manhood, he came West to Illinois, and located in Stephen- 
si n Co. in the spring of 1851 ; he entered a drug store as clerk the first year, and the 
following year he became a partner in the store, and has been connected with 
the business for twenty-eight years, and, with one exception, is the oldest merchant 
in the city. He has held the offices of Supervisor and Collector, and school 
offices. In 1853, Mr. Burrell was united in marriage to Miss Augusta E. Burn- 
side, a native of Indiana ; they have three children — Florence (now Mrs. S. Hermanns, 
of Morris, 111.), Lillian A. and William Burnside. 

BURRELL BROTHERS, wholesale and retail dealers in groceries and 
provisions, 110 Stephenson street; the firm is composed of Lewis F., Henry and Daniel 
W.; the business was established in 1856 by Lewis F., the senior member of the present 
firm. He is a native of Westmoreland Co., Penn., and came to Stephenson Co. in 1850 ; 
he carried on the busiuess until 1870, when he went to Chicago, and became connected 
with the extensive printing, binding and stationery house of Culver, Page & Hoyne, 
and since then has been a member of that firm, still retaining his interest in the firm of 
Burrell Brothers. Heory Burrell is a native of Westmoreland Co., Penn., and came to 
Freeport in 1850 ; he grew up to manhood here, and learned the tinner's trade ; he was 
engaged in the hardware trade in Winnebago Co. for eight years ; he became a member 
of the present firm in 1874 ; during the war, he enlisted in Company G, 15th Regiment, 
I. V. I., and served two years; participated in the battles of Shiloh, Corinth and Vicks- 
burg ; he was commissioned Lieutenant, and served in that position in the 6th Miss. 
Reg. Colored Infantry ; he was afterward promoted and commissioned Captain of Co. 
F, 142d I. V. I., and commanded that company until the close of the war. He was 
united in marriage to Miss Mary E. Steves, a native of Winnebago Co., in 1867. 
Daniel W. is a native of Pennsylvania, and came here with his parents in 1850 ; 
he grew up to manhood here, and has had a large praciical experience in the grocery 
business. 

REV. D. B. BYERS, Pastor of the Evangelical Church ; is a native of 
Ashland Co., Ohio, and was born Feb. 5, 1835 ; he grew up to manhood, and received 
his education in Ohio and Illinois; he entered the ministry in 1856 ; he came to Free- 
port in 1859 ; besides preaching here many years, has served eight years as Presiding 
Elder. Mr. Byers has been successfully engaged in the ministry for the past twenty- 
four years. Mr. Byers was united in marriage to Miss Susan E. Barshinger, from 
Pennsylvania, April 5, 1859 ; they have six children. 

DR. W. S. CALDWELL, physician and surgeon, 122 Stephenson St. ; is a 
native of Southern Kansas, and was born Aug. 8, 1832; his father, Abner Caldwell, 



FREEPORT. 623 

belongs to the celebrated Caldwell family, and he was an own cousin to John C. Cal- 
houn. When fourteen years of age, Dr. Caldwell went to Michigan, where he com- 
pleted his literary course ; then began his extended course in the study of medicine at 
the University of Michigan ; he also pursued the study of medicine and surgery in 
Cincinnati, Philadelphia, New York, Berlin, Vienna, Paris and London. Dr. Cald- 
well came to Jo Daviess Co., in 1856, with only $20 in his pocket; he taught school 
one winter, then engaged in the practice of his profession at Elizabeth, where he 
remained fifteen years ; then removed to Warren, where he remained seven years, 
and built up a large and very successful practice; in April, 1877, he went abroad and 
spent two years in Europe, pursuing his studies in Berlin, Vienna, Paris and London ; 
upon his return, in June, 1879, he located in Freeport, and since then, within one year, 
has a larger and more successful practice than any physician outside of Chicago. Dr. 
Caldwell has received five diplomas from different medical institutions ; he is a great 
student, and devoted to the interests of his profession. 

M. D. CHA1IBERLIIV, dealer in hats, caps, furs and gents' furnishing 
goods, Stephenson street, corner Chicago street ; is a native of Onondaga Co., 
N. Y., and was born Aug. 23, 1829 ; he grew up to manhood in that State; he came 
West to Illinois, and located in Freeport, in 1853, and established his present business ; 
he has carried on the business for twenty seven years, and is, with one exception, the 
oldest merchant in Freeport, and is the oldest dealer in hats, caps and gents' furnish- 
ing goods in this section of the Sfcate ; he carries a full stock of the best and most 
standard goods, and has the leading established trade. Mr. Chamberlin was united in 
marriage, Jan. 3, 1855, to Miss Louise V. Loveland, a native of Hartford, Conn. ; they 
have six children, three sons and three daughters. 

JAMES B. CHILDS, deceased ; was a native of the State of Pennsylvania, 
and was born in Bucks Co., in May, 1815; he grew up to manhood there, and learned 
the trade of cabinet and sash maker ; he came West to Illinois, and settled in Stephen- 
son Co. in 1842, and began working at his trade; he bought land on Stephenson street, 
and improved it. In November, 1853, he was united in marriage to Miss Hannah D. 
Reel, a native of Chester Co., Penn; she came to this county in 1852. Mr. Childs 
was engaged in building, and made substantial improvements to the city; he was 
honored with many offices of trust, having been elected a member of the Board of 
Supervisors, Assessor and School Treasurer, and other town and school offices ; he was 
identified with the interests of the city and county until his death, which occurred in 
1868; he left one daughter — Anna M., now Mrs. John V. Vickers. Mrs. Childs has 
lived in her present location, corner Galena and Mechanic streets, since 1853. 

SILAS D. CLARK, Galena Ave. ; is a native of Bennington Co., Vt., 
and was born April 14, 1810; he grew up from early boyhood in the State of New 
York, and lived there until he came West in 1849, to Stephenson Co., and located in 
Freeport ; he engaged in mercantile business, and continued in trade here for some 
years ; he also engaged in contracting and building railroads. Mr. Clark entered from 
Government a part of the farm where he now lives, within the city limits. He has held the 
office of City Alderman. In 1833, he was united in marriage to Miss r.mily Keith, a 
native of Herkimer Co., N. Y. ; they' have one son — George W., engaged in the grain 
trade here, and have lost one son — Russell. 

GILBERT M. CLAYTON, dealer in toys and fancy goods, Stephenson 
St. ; is a native of New York City, and was born Feb. 22, 1826 ; he grew up and 
attended school there; when 17 years of age, he came West with his parents to Chi- 
cago, when that city contained only 8,000 people ; he entered the extensive mercantile 
house of Alexander White & Co., who were then, and for many years, the largest deal- 
ers in paints and oils in that city, or west of it ; he remained with this house for ten 
years ; he came to Freeport in 1853, and established the same character of business ; he 
had, besides his own capital, an unlimited letter of credit from Alexander White & Co. ; 
he bought carefully, and, with his large experience and energy, built up an extensive 
trade ; he carried on the business for twenty five years, and was noted for his enterprise 



624 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

and liberality ; he built one of the finest dwellings in the city ; in aiding others he 
became embarrassed in business, and was obliged to suspend ; the letters received from 
his creditors bore high testimony to his business integrity. In 1849, Mr. Clayton was 
united in marriage to Miss Catharine C. Miller, from Rahway, N. J. ; they have five 
children — Sylvester, Joseph, Addie, Freddie and John Middleton. 

JUDGE JOHN COATES, attorney and counselor at law, Exchange St., 
opposite court house ; is a native of Lycoming Co., Penn., and was born June 23, 1819 ; 
he grew up and attended school there, and after reaching manhood came West to Illi- 
nois, in 1845, and began reading law; he came to Stephenson Co. in 1847, and the 
following year, in the spring of 1848, was admitted to the bar; after being admitted, 
he engaged in the practice of law. In 1853, he was elected County Judge of Stephen- 
son Co., and held that office four years ; he has held the offices of City Attorney, Jus- 
tice of the Peace, County Attorney and Supervisor. Judge Coates was united in 
marriage, Nov. 10, 1856, to Mrs. Ellen V. Carroll, a native of Princeton, N. J., and 
widow of Rev. James W. Carroll, Presbyterian minister. Judge Coates is, with one 
exception, the oldest attorney in practice in this county. Judge Coates has, for a great 
many years, been a consis'ent member of the Presbyterian Church ; he helped to organ- 
ize the Second Presbyterian Church, and was, for many years, one of its strongest sup- 
porters. Judge and Mrs. Coates have one daughter — Helen J., now in Europe, com- 
pleting her musical education ; she graduated at a seminary in Pennsylvania in 1877, 
then went abroad, and, for one and a half years, sti'died music in Dresden, and is now 
in Switzerland. 

ROWELL COLBY, residence corner Walnut and Clay Sts. ; is a native of 
Grafton Co., N. H., and was born March 20, 1809 ; he grew up in that State. After 
reaching manhood, in 1833, he was united in mairiage to Miss Abigail Livingston, 
daughter of Maj. William Livingston, of Massachusetts. In 1835, Mr. Colby went to Roch- 
ester, N. Y., and was in business there ten years ; in 1845, he came West on an exploring 
trip, traveled through thirteen States, and upon his return figured up his expense, and 
the whole amount for the trip was only $25, such was the hospitality of the people ; he 
says that he did not beg nor steal. Mr. and Mrs. Colby came West in a covered wagon, 
to Stephenson Co. and located permanently in December, 1849 ; he did not have a sur- 
plus dollar in the world ; the first year he had to walk three miles to work, and only 
got 50 cents a day, and had to take his pay in trade ; he began making a farm in Sil- 
ver Creek Township; he has cut and carted hay and sold it for $1.50 per ton; he 
made one of the finest improved and most valuable farms in Stephenson Co. ; he con- 
tinued farming until a few years ago ; since then he has lived here in the city. Mr. 
Colby is a consistent member of the M. E. Church, and is an ardent advocate of tem- 
perance ; he has written a series of able and convincing articles on temperance and 
other subjects. Mr. and Mrs. Colby have had seven children, five of whom survive — 
Edward L., a merchant in Freeport ; Albert H., engaged in farming in this county ; 
Leonard W., attorney at law, Beatrice, Neb. ; David R., Abbie J.', now Mrs-. Dr. Fos- 
ter, of New York. 

ALBERTUS COLLMANN, wholesale dealer in leaf tobacco, corner Adams 
and Clay Sts. ; is a native of Germany, and was born in the Kingdom of Hanover, 
Nov. 27, 1828 ; after reaching manhood he came' to the United States, in 1849, and 
came to Stephenson Co. in the fall of the same year, and began making a farm ; he 
continued farming until 1865, when he came to the city and engaged in mercantile 
business, and buying and selling tobacco ; he sells .his tobacco in the Eastern markets, 
and exports to Hamburg and Bremen; Mr. Collmann is a member of the banking firm 
of M. Hettinger, Collmann Bros. & Co. ; he is a stockholder and Director in the German 
Insurance Co. ; he is a large landholder in Iowa, owning several large farms there under 
cultivation ; he had very little when he came here, and owes his success to his own 
efforts and good management. He married Miss Henrietta Janssen, a native of Han- 
over, Germany ; they have six children — Gelle, Rosa, Onnie, George, Willie and Alice. 

C. O. COLLMANN, of the banking house of M. Hettinger, Collmann 
Brothers & Company, Chicago street, north of Galena avenue ; is a native of Germany, 



FREEPORT. 625 

and was born in the Kingdom of Hanover Nov. 1, 1822 ; he grew up to manhood there 
and came to the United States in June, 1850; he came West to Illinois, and located in 
Stephenson Co. the same year, and engaged in farming in Ridott Township ; he con- 
tinued farming until 1866, when he came to Freeport and engaged in mercantile busi- 
ness ; he continued the business nine years ; in 1876, he engaged in the banking 
business, and became a member of the present firm upon its organization. Mr. Collmann 
is a stockholder and Director in the Germau Insurance Company ; he has held the 
position of Vice President of the company two years, and was elected President of the 
company two years; he has held the position of Treasurer of the company for the past 
six years. In 1855, Mr. Collmann was united in marriage to Miss Aafke Rademaker, 
a native of Hanover, Germany ; they have nine children — Rosa, John, Lena, Maggie, 
Jennie, Oruiie, Willie, Harry and Charlie. 

J. A. COTTON, freight and ticket agent of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. 
Paul Railroad ; is a native of Greene Co., Penn., and was born March 13, 1835 ; during 
early boyhood his parents moved to Zanesville, Ohio; he came to Rockford, 111., in 
1852 ; he began railroading in 1857, with the Racine & Mississippi Railroad ; he was 
agent for the road at Durand, at Davis, at Delavan and at Freeport, and was afterward 
appointed Division Superintendent from Freeport to Rock Island ; when the present 
corporation came in control of this road, he became connected with the Rockford, Rock 
Island & St. Louis Railroad, as agent at Rock Island, and was then appointed general 
agent of the line at St. Louis, and remained there several years, when he returned to 
Freeport and accepted his present position ; he is one of the oldest officials connected 
with the road. In 1860, Mr. Cotton was united in marriage to Miss Minerva Coshun, 
a native of New York ; they have three daughters — Lizzie, Maggie and Emma. 

A. B. CRANDELL, proprietor of Crandell's Commercial College, Stephen- 
son street, corner Adams; is a native of Mercer Co., 111., and was born Aug. 5, 1858 ; 
he grew up and received his education in this State, completing his commercial course 
at the Davenport Business College, and afterward engaged in teaching ; he came to 
Freeport in 1879, and on the first of January became proprietor of the school. 

HENRY DAVIS, of the firm of Mernitz & Davis, blacksmiths and wagon- 
makers, Bridge street, is a native of Stephenson Co., and was born in Freeport Aug. 
14, 1850 ; he grew up and learned his trade here ; he continued working at his trade 
until recently, when he associated with Mr. Mernitz and engaged in their present busi- 
ness, in 1876, he married Miss Lizzie Koyni, of this city ; they have two children — 
Walter and Emma. 

\j. M. DEVORE, manufacturer of the Stover wind-mill and Devore's rotary 
feed grinder, corner Stephenson and Walnut streets; is a native of Bedford Co., Penn., 
and was born July 4, 1845 ; his parents came to Stephenson Co. in 1854 ; he grew up 
and attended school here. Upon the breaking-out of the rebellion, he entered the serv- 
ice ; he was so young they would not allow him to go in the ranks ; he was with the 
46th I. V. I; then served as Colonel's orderly in the 71st I. V. I.; he afterward 
enlisted, and served in Company G, 149th Ohio V. I.; he was wounded in the battle of 
Monocacy Junction. After the war, he returned here, and in 1876 engaged in the agri- 
cultural implement business ; in 1877, he was connected with and had an interest in the 
Stover Wind Engine Company ; in 1878, he established his present business, and is 
building up a large trade ; he has held the office of Justice of the Peace. In 1868, Mr. 
Devore was united in marriage to Miss Julia B. Higley, a native of Vermont ; they 
have three children — Edith, Julia and Mabel. 

JOSEPH EJOIERT, of the firm of Emmert & Burrell, wholesale and 
retail dealers in drugs, medicines, paints and oils, No. Ill Stephenson street ; is a native 
of Lebanon Co., Penn., and was born March 13, 1831 ; in early boyhood, removed to 
Center Co., and grew up and attended school there; after reaching manhood, he came 
West to Illinois, and located in Freeport in 1855, and engaged in the drug trade; the 
business was established by his brother, John S. Emmert, in 1846; Emmert's drug 
store is well known throughout the county and this section of the State, and the house 



626 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

has a large established trade ; Mr. Emmert has been connected with the house a quar- 
ter of a century. In 1862, Mr. Emmert was united in marriage to Miss Mary Coch- 
ran, a native of" Pittsburgh, Penn. ; she came to Freeport in 1859. 

W. EMMERT, manufacturer of the Climax churn and step-ladders, 
Manufacturers Island ; is a native of Lebanon Co., Penn., and was born July 7, 1833 ; 
he grew up and attended school in Center Co., and learned the trade of carriage-maker ; 
after reaching manhood, he came West to Illinois, and arrived in Freeport in May, 
1854 ; in 1861, he engaged in the hardware trade, and continued for four years ; he ran 
a tug boat on the Pecatonica River for two years ; in 1868, he engaged in his present 
business, and has successfully carried it on for the past twelve years, and has built up 
a large trade ; when he began life he had nothing, and owes his success to his own 
efforts. In 1855, Mr. Emmert was united in marriage to Miss Sarah L. Mease, a 
native of Pennsylvania ; they have four children — Carrie J., Wesley, Mollie and 
William. 

ADOLPH F. ERFERT, with Beyer & Seyfarth ; was born in Germany 
Oct. 3, 1848; he grew up there; after reaching manhood, he came to the United 
States in 1871, and came to Freeport the same year. He married Miss Maggie Ellen 
Long, a native of this State, Feb. 18, 1876 ; they have one son - Henry. 

JOHN ERFERT, dealer in groceries and provisions, 48 Stephenson street ; 
is a native of Prussia, Germany, and was born Jan. 14, 1835 ; he came to the United 
States in 1853, and came to Stephenson Co. in 1857 ; after remaining a short time, 
weiit to Kansas, then came to Monroe, Wis., and lived there two years ; in 1861, he 
1 cated permanently in Freeport, and in 1866 engaged in his present business, and has 
successfully carried it on for the past fourteen years, and has built up a good trade ; he 
had nothing when he reached this country, and owes his success to his own efforts. He 
has held the office of Assistant Supervisor, and is a Director in the German Insurance 
Company and a member of the Finance Committee ; he is prominently identified with 
the order of I. O. 0. F., and has been Grand Representative to the Grand Lodge for 
many years. Mr Erfert was united in marriage Nov. 18, 1860. to Miss Nettie Muel- 
ler, a native of Hanover, Germany ; they have seven children — Fred. Ida. Alma, Birdie, 
Nettie, Walter and Clara. 

JOHN H. FARINUER, Galena avenue, south of Stephenson street ; is 
a native of York Co., Penn., and was born June 23, 1832 ; he grew up in that State 
and came to Freeport in 1854, and learned his trade here; in 1857, he returned 
to Pennsylvania ; in 1865, he again came to Freeport and engaged in his pres- 
ent business, and has carried it on since then. In Feb., 1862, he married Miss Mary 
Spotts, from York Co., Penn. ; they have eight children — John F., Mary E., Henry E., 
Ida J., Albert W., Tillie, Hattie and Mabel. 

E. C FITCH, bakery and confectionery, 151 Stephenson street ; is a native 
of Columbia Co., N. Y., and was born in 1827 ; he grew up in that State; after reach- 
ing manhood, in 1853, he went to California; remained there five years, and came to 
Freeport in 1858, and engaged in the grain business; in 1861, engaged in railroading; 
was connected with the Racine & Mississippi and the Western Union Railroads for six- 
teen years, and held the position of Ticket Agent for ten years. Mr. Fitch married 
Miss Margaret Bonner, a native of Massachusetts; they have four children — Harriet, 
Albert, Edward and Nellie ; they have lost two children — Benjamin and Margaret. 

JOHN FITZ, dealer in fresh and salted meats, Galena avenue, between 
Galena and Stephenson streets; is a native of Austria, and was born June 14, 1832 ; he 
grew up to manhood th re, and came to the United States in 1864 ; lived in St. Louis 
and in Pennsylvania, and came to this county in 1867, and located in Freeport; he 
engaged in his present busines-s, and has carried it on since then ; has a good trade. He 
married Miss Louise Brel, a native of Germany, Jan. 25, 1869; they have three chil- 
dren — Albin, August and Alma. 

FRED FL.ACHTEMEIER, proprietor Freeport Marble and Stone 
Works, dealer in foreign and American marble, corner Galena and Adams streets, 



FREEPORT. 627 

Chicago ; is a native of Germany, and was born July 5, 1851 ; he grew up and learned 
the trade of stonecutter ; he came to the United States in 1868, and came to Freeport 
the same year, and began working at his trade in 1875; he engaged in stone-cutting 
business, and in 1878, established the Freeport Marble and Stone Works, and is building 
up a large trade in this city and county, and in adjoining counties. He is a member of 
Freeport Lodge, No. 239, I. 0. 0. F., and also of the Germania society. In 1874, he 
was united in marriage to Miss Minnie VVittbaker, a native of this city ; they have one 
daughter — Ada Louise. 

JOHN F. FRANZ, of Franz Bros. & Co., dealers in dry goods and 
groceries ; is a native of Stephenson Co., and was born in Freeport, March 25, 1856 ; 
he grew up and attended school here, and completed his education in Chicago and 
Milwaukee. In 1872, he engaged in mercantile business with his father; he has the 
active management of the business. He was united in marriage, Sept. 9, 1879, to Miss 
Johanna Schaedle, a native of Stephenson Co. 

I>. FRANZ, of the firm of Franz Bros. & Co., dealers in dry goods and 
groceries, corner Galena and Chicago streets ; is a native of Germany, and was born 
Sept. 29, 1822; he emigrated lo the United States in 1840, and came to Stephenson 
Co. and settled in Freeport, in April, 1853, and has lived here twenty-seven years; in 
1865, he engaged in mercantile business, and has successfully carried on the business 
for the past fifteen years. When Mr. Franz came to this country he had nothing. He 
owes his success in life to his own efforts and good management ; he owns the brick 
block corner Chicago and Galena streets, two good farms and other property. On May, 
1850, Mr. Franz married Miss Catharine Grosell, a native of Alsace, France ; they have 
nine children, four sons and five daughters. 

PHILIP FRE1 DAG, of the firm of Freidag & Molher, manufacturers and 
dealers in harness, saddles and collars, 59 Stephenson street ; is a native of Genesee Co., 
N. Y., and was born in April 5, 1843; his parents came to Stephenson Co. in 1850; 
he grew up and learned his trade here; he engaged in business for himself in 1869, and 
has built up a good trade. During the war he enlisted in the 46th I. V. I., Co. C, and 
served until the close of the war. In August, 1870, Mr. Freidag was united in marriage 
to Miss Caroline Knecht, of this city ; they have three children — Herman, Lizzie and 
Willie. 

THOMAS FRENCH, residence corner Galena street and Galena avenue ; is 
a native of Burlington Co., N. J., and was born Dec. 12, 1815 ; he grew up to manhood 
and lived there until he came West to Illinois, and located in Freeport in Sep- 
tember, 1854; he engaged in the hotel business, and continued successfully in that 
business until 1872; he has lived on the corner of Galena street and Galena avenue a 
quarter of a century ; his success in life is owing to his own efforts. In October, 1853, 
Mr. French was united in marriage to Miss Sarah B. Winchester, of Pennsvlvania ; they 
have two children — one son, William L. D., attorney at law in this city, and one daughter, 
Ida I. engaged in teaching music. 

PHILIP FRONINCw, physician and surgeon, corner Galena street and 
Galena avenue; is a native of Prussia, Germany, and was born April 29, 1827; he 
grew up and received his education there, and studied medicine and graduated in a col- 
lege of pharmacy in 1850 ; he came to the United States in 1855, and came to Stephen- 
son Co. and located in Freeport in 1856, and engaged in the drug business; in 1865, 
he went to Germany and took a special course in medicine, and graduated at " The 
University of Bonn," Prussia, May 16, 1866 ; since then he has successfully practiced 
his profession here ; he built the block on the corner of Galena avenue and Galena street 
in 1869. He has held the office of Town Physician for six years. In 1855, he was 
united in marriage to Miss Maria Zenke, from Bremen, Germanv ; they have three 
children — Christian, Adolph and Matilda. 

J. N. GALLOWAY, of the firm of Galloway & Snooks, proprietors of the 
Freeport Soda Water Manufactory, corner Jackson and Walnut streets ; is a native of 
Lycoming Co., Penn., and was born April 22, 1837 ; he came to Stephenson Co. and 



628 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES : 

located in Freeport March 22, 1858 ; he associated with W. H. Snooks, and engaged in 
their present business in 1873; they have an increasing demand for their goods here 
and in several adjoining counties, and have a good trade. In 1862, Mr. Galloway was 
united in marriage to Miss Mary J. Snyder, a native of St. Joseph Co., Mich. ; they 
have two children — Ida and Jennie. Mr. Galloway is a member of Excelsior Lodge, 
A., F. & A. M. 

S. B. GARDNER, passenger conductor C. &. N. W. R. R. ; residence Car- 
rol street; is a native of Erie Co., Penn., and was born Aug. 14, 1836; his parents 
came West to Illinois in 1844; after reaching manhood he began railroading, on the 
old Galena & Chicago R. R., now the C. & N. W. R. R., and worked upon the con- 
struction of the road when it was built ; he run a freight train on this road for twelve 
years, and during that time he only laid oif once, and then only for ten days, on account 
of sickness ; there are very few now connected with this great corporation that were 
with it when Mr. Gardner first entered its employ ; he came to Freeport to reside July 
1, 1867. Mr. Gardner was united in marriage to Miss Esther Wright, a native of 
Syracuse, N. Y., Feb. 5, 1859; they have two sons — Friend J. and Freddie Day. 

JAY S. CjtATES, proprietor Brewster House, corner Mechanic and Ste- 
phenson streets, Freeport. 

T. S. CjtEUOIIIjIj, Assistant Postmaster, Freeport ; is a native of York 
Co., Penn., and was born Jan. 21, 1830 ; he grew. up and attended school there ; after 
reaching manhood, he came to Stephenson Co., in 1 853, and engaged in teaching school ; 
the following year he entered the post office, and was appointed Assistant Postmaster 
by F. W. S. Brawley ; he has held that position for twenty-six years, and is one of the 
oldest Government officials in the State. In October, 1870, Mr. Gemmill was united in 
marriage to Miss Maggie G. Baird, a native of Lycoming Co., Penn.; they have two 
children — Laura M. and Lizzie Edna. 

BENJAMIN GODDARD, retired; residence, Webster street; was born 
in Grafton Co., N. H., July 22, 1804 ; his parents removed to Vermont when he was 
2 years of age, and he grew up there ; after reaching manhood he went to St. Lawrence 
Co., N. Y., in 1825. A few years after that, on the 31st of May, 1829, he was united 
in marriage to Miss Mercy Ann Pierce, a native of Grafton, N. H.; she came to New 
York when 10 years of age ; they came West by wagon io Iowa, and were seven weeks 
on the way, and arrived in this county in December, 1835, and located about three 
miles from Freeport ; built a log house, and began making a farm ; they were among 
the very earliest settlers ; there were plenty of Indians, and Mrs. Goddard tells of how 
they used to come to the house when she was all alone, and want bread and moat, and 
more than once they understood that she was not frightened, and would not give them 
all the food in the house ; after living there three years, they moved to where the city 
is now located, and Mr. Goddard built the first house that was built in Freeport ; he 
had a farm adjoining the present town site ; they kept hotel for some years, it being the 
old Stage House ; he bought a saw-mill and run it about twenty years ; in 1860, he 
engaged in the flouring-mill business, and since then he has been interested in that bus- 
iness, which is now managed by his son. Mr. and Mrs. Goddard are the oldest living 
settlers of Freeport ; there is no one living now that was here when they came ; when 
they first came, he only had his team and the little furniture they brought with them ; 
he now owns 170 acres of good land adjoining the city limits, besides city property ; 
owes his success to his own efforts ; he has seen good winter wheat sell for 25 cents 
per bushel ; he relates of a man named Hill who carted a load of wheat to Chicago, 
and his expenses for the trip were $9 more than he got for the wheat. Mr. and Mrs. 
Goddard have four children — Miriam (now Mrs. Frisbie), Alpheus P., Benjamin E. 
and Byron S.; they lost one son — Franklin. 

A. P. GODDARD, proprietor of Goddard's Flouring Mills; residence on 
Webster street; is a son of Benjamin and Mercy Pierce Goddard, the oldest living set- 
tlers of the City of Freeport, and was born in Franklin Co., N. Y., Aug. 29, 1833; he 
came with his parcnis by wagon from that Starte to Illinois; they arrived here in De- 



FREEPORT. 629 

cember, 1835 ; though he was only 2 years of age, he remembers coming; his parents 
located three miles from Freeport for several years, and in 1838 they moved from where 
they lived to where the town is now located; he grew up to manhood and has lived here 
since then, except a short time in Iowa. During the war he enlisted in the 93d I. V. I., 
and was commissioned 1st Lieutenant of Co. D ; he participated in the siege of Vicks- 
burg, and in the battles of Jackson and Champion Hill ; after serving two years he was 
obliged to resign his commission on account of ill htalth. He returned, built a mill, and 
engaged in the milling business, and has so continued since then; in 1875 he was elected 
Mayor of the city, and re-elected in 1876, and held that office two years ; he has also 
held the office of City Alderman and County Supervisor. In October, 1866, Mr. God- 
dard was united in marriage to Miss Mercy Pierce, a native of New York ; they have 
three children — Hannah F., Alpheus T. and Jennie May. 

THOMAS F. GOODHUE, attorney-at-law and Justice of the Peace, 
corner Stephenson and Exchange streets; is a native of Belfast, Me., and was born 
Aug. 9, 1812; he grew up to manhood and received his education in New England ; 
he studied law in Troy, N. Y., and was admitted to the bar in Albany, in October, 
1838 ; he engaged in the practice of law in the city of New York, and continued four 
years ; he came West, to Illinois, and arrived in Stephenson Co. in May, 1842 ; he set- 
tled in Freeport, and engaged in the practice of law. A few years after coming here, 
in 1846, he married Miss Mary Strocky, a native of Germany ; they have four children 
— Charles F., Kate, Robert and Jennie. Mr. Goodhue has practiced law in this county 
thirty-eight years, a greater length of time than any attorney now in practice here, 
and there are very few who remember as many incidents of the early days of litigation 
in this county as he; he has held the offices of City Attorney and Justice of the 
Peace. 

GRANT BROTHERS, brick manufacturers, Galena avenue. 

A. T. GREEN, attorney and counselor at law, corner Exchange and 
Stephenson streets; is a native of Orange Co., N. Y., and was born Aug. 6, 1815 ; he 
grew up and harned the tailor's trade. After reaching manhood he came West to 
Illinois, and arrived in Stephenson Co., Oct. 10, 1839 ; he walked from Rockford, and 
just before he came to the village of Freeport he stopped on the hill and sat on a stump ; 
he counted forty roofs of all kinds, and it was all the town then contained. He began 
working at the tailor's trade. A few years after coming here, in 1845, he was united in 
marriage to Miss Mary E. Ordway, a native of New Hampshire; he afterward studied 
law, and was admitted to the bar in 1854. He was appointed Postmaster, under 
President Tyler, in 1843, and held that office during the administration of President 
Polk. Mr. Green was an early advocate of the free school system, and has always 
been prominently identified with educational interests since then. There are only two 
or three h< re now that were here when he came. His wife, Mrs. Green, died in 1851 ; 
subsequently, in 1856, he was married to Miss Orissa B. Richards, of the same place. 
Mr. Green has three sons — Charles T., attorney-at-law ; Edward B., in store here ; 
William A., in a bank at Lincoln, Neb. During the war, Charles enlisted and served 
in the 17th I. V. C, Co. M. and was afterward transferred to the Government Naval 
Academy. 

J. A. GRIMES, proprietor of the Farmer's Store, and dealer in dry goods, 
groceries and provisions, Stephenson street, between Adams and Mechanic ; is a uative 
of Holmes Co., Ohio, and was born Oct. 20, 1837 ; his parents came to Stephenson Co. 
in 1849, and he grew up and attended school here. After reaching manhood he engaged 
in the grain trade, and has been engaged in business here since then. He was elected 
and served as a member of the Board of Supervisors. Mr. Grimes was united in mar- 
riage to Miss Mary Cornelius, a native of Pennsylvania, June 1, 1862; they have one 
daughter — Effie E. 

It. W. GUITEAU, cashier of the Second National Bank, Freeport; is a 
native of New York State, and was born in Utica, Oneida Co., March 3, 1810 ; he grew 
up to manhood in that State. He came to Michigan, and engaged in mercantile busi- 
ness at Ann Arbor; remained there a short time; in 1838, he came to Illinois, and 



630 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

settled in Freeport in the month of October of that year ; he engaged in the mercantile 
business near where the depot is now located. In 1840, he was appointed Postmaster 
under President Harrison, and held that office several years. In 1841, Mr. Guiteau 
became embarrassed in his business ; but he paid all of his creditors in full, though he 
sacrificed all he had in doing so. He entered the post office, and, after serving there for 
some time, was appointed Deputy Clerk of the Circuit Court, and was afterward elected 
Clerk of that court, and held that office four years, and declined to become a candidate 
for re-election. He was afterward appointed, and served again as Deputy Clerk. Upon 
the organization of the Second National Bank he became book-keeper, and served in 
that capacity for one year, and then was elected cashier of the "bank in April, 1865, and 
since then has occupied that position. Mr. Guiteau is a man of unswerving integrity, 
and enjoyed the confidence of the President and Board of Directors of the bank to such 
an extent that for a long time he has had the responsible management of the bank. Mr. 
Guiteau was elected the First County Commissioner of Schools. He was instrumental 
in organizing here the union system of graded schools, this being the second place in 
the State to adopt this system, Chicago being the first and Freeport the second. He 
was also the first Police Magistrate elected in the city. In 1833, Mr. Guiteau was 
united in marriage to Miss Jane Howe, daughter of Maj. John Howe, of Antwerp, 
Jefferson Co., N. Y. ; she died in 1848 ; in 1854, he was married to his present wife, 
Maria Blood, of Cazenovia, N. Y. ; he has four children. 

FRED CwUND, Secretary of the German Insurance Company; office, corner 
Exchange and Bridge streets , is a native of Germany, and was born in the Grand 
Duchy of Baden, Nov. 13, 1846 ; his parents came to Stephenson Co. in 1848 ; he grew 
up and attended school here. After reaching manhood, upon the organization of the 
German Insurance Company, he was elected Secretary of the company in 1867 ; since 
then he has held that position, and has managed the affairs of the company with great 
ability, and through his energetic and successful management the company has reached 
a very prosperous condition. 

F. W. HANCE, physician and surgeon, Stephenson street, west of Walnut; 
is a native of Belmont Co., Ohio, and was burn July 3, 1825 ; he grew up to manhood 
and received his education in that State, completing his literary course at Franklin 
College, Athens, Ohio ; he studied medicine and graduated at the University of Penn- 
sylvania in 1849 ; after graduating, he practiced medicine in Bridgeport, Ohio ; he 
came to Illinois and located in Freeport in May, 1853, and engaged in the practice of 
medicine. Dr. Hance has practiced his profession here since then ; he was elected 
Mayor of Freeport in 1861. In 1849, Dr. Hance was united in marriage to Misa 
Mary B. Chamberlain, a native of New York ; she died Sept. 24, 1873. 

CAPT. J. R. HARDING, clerk in railway mail service, is a native of 
Oxfordshire, England ; he crnie to the United States in 1857, and came to Stephenson 
Co. the same year. Upon the breaking-out of the rebellion he enlisted under the first 
call for troops, in Co. A, 11th Regiment I. V. I. ; he remained with the 11th Regiment 
until the fall of Vicksburg ; he then was authorized io aid in raising a colored regiment, 
and was commissioned First Lieutenant ; after serving only a few months was promoted 
and commissioned Captain; he was slightly wounded in the storming of Fort Blakeley. 
He remained in the service until February, 1866, and then returned here and engaged 
in the clothing business ; he was appointed to his present position in the railway mail 
service in 1869. In 1864, Capt. Harding was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth A. 
Wurts, of this city ; she died in May, 1879, leaving three children — Carrie, John and 
Nettie. 

SAMUEL* B. HARRIS, residence corner Stephenson and Foley streets, 
Freeport ; is a native of Union Co., Penn., and was born Sept. 2, 1824 ; he came 
West to Illinois, and arrived in Stephenson Co. in March, 1848. The following year he 
was appointed Deputy Postmaster ; he afterward, for many years, was engaged in sell- 
ing goods and book keeping ; in 1867, he was elected a member of the Board of Su- 
pervisors, and was again re-elected ; he held that office two terms and declined a renom- 



FREEPORT. 631 

ination ; he was also engaged in the grain and lumber business. Mr. Harris was mar- 
ried June 11, 1850, to Miss Anna E. Van Dyke; she came here with her parents in 
1843; they have three children— Jennie B., Carrie D. arid Anna B. ; they have lost 
four children — James A., Linda, Bertie, and Lizzie D. 

WILLIAM HARRIS, with Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul R. R. ; resi- 
dence corner Taylor avenue and Henderson street ; was born in Cornwall Co., England, 
Nov. 15, 1817 ; he emigrated to America in 185-4, and came to Freeport in 1860, and 
entered the employ of the railroad, and, except a short time, has been connected with 
the railroad here since then. In the spring of 1854, Mr. Harris was united in marriage 
to Miss Emma Harris, a native of Cornwall Co., England ; they have two sons — Will- 
iam, engaged in business in this city, and Frank, at home. Mr. and Mrs. Harris have 
a very attractive home. 

JACOB HARTMAN, contractor and builder ; is a native of Union Co., 
Penn., and was born Feb. 1, 1820 ; his parents came to Sandusky Co., Ohio, when he 
was 10 years of age, and he grew up there and learned the trade of carpenter and 
joiner; he came west to Stephenson Co. in October of 1848, settled in Freeport, and 
began working at his trade ; Mr. Hartman has been engaged in building for thirty- 
two years, and is the oldest in the business here. In August, 1852, Mr. Hartman was 
united in marriage to Miss Melvina Thomas, a native of York Co., Penn. ; they have 
one daughter — Mary Lucinda, now Mrs. W. W. Sanderson, of this city ; they have lost 
two sons — Jacob and George W. 

.IOH\ HART, of the Farmers' Association, corner Stephenson and 
Adams streets; is a native of Indiana, and was born April 22, 1831 ; his father 
came to this county in 1836, and the family all came in April, 1837, and were among 
the earliest settlers ; he grew up to manhood here and engaged in farming ; he contin- 
ued farming and stock-raising until 1877, when he came in the city ; he was elected to 
his present position of Superintendent and Manager of the Farmers' Co-operative Asso- 
ciation in 1879. He has held the office of Highway Commissioner, and was elected a 
member of the Board of Supervisors, and held that office several terms. During the war 
he enlisted, Aug. 30, 1862, in the 46th I. V. I., and served until the close of the war, 
and was mustered out June 19, 1865 ; there were five brothers of them in the service, 
and all returned safe and unhurt. In April, 1852, Mr. Hart was united in marriage 
to Miss Rebecca A. Sheetz, a native of Pennsylvania ; they have three children — Albert 
W., Orton and Maurice. 

D. M. HART, of the firm of Kundinger & Hart, dealers in clothing and 
gentlemen's furnishing goods, 123 Stephenson street; is a native of Stephenson Co., 
and was born Nov. 25, 1837; he greW up and attended school here; after reaching 
manhood, he entered a store as clerk, and afterward engaged in the grocery trade, and 
carried on that business for seven years; in 1874, he engaged in his present business, 
and the firm of Kundinger & Hart carry on a successful trade. Mr. Hart has lived in 
this county forty-three years, and is one of the oldest native-born citizens now living 
here. During the war he enlisted for three years, in Co. A, 46th I. V. I. ; after serving 
one yr-ar he was discharged, on account of disability. In 1858, he was united in marriage 
to Miss E. V. Best, a native of Pennsylvania; they have three children — Eva L., 
Walter E. and Arthur. 

R. F. HAYES, homoeopathic physician and surgeon; office 105 Stephenson 
street; is a native of Union Co., Penn., and was born Feb. 29, 1832: he grew up to 
manhood and received his education in that State ; he studied medicine and graduated 
at the Uuiversity of Pennsylvania, in Philadelphia, in 1858 ; the following year he 
came West to Illinois, and located in this county, and has practiced his profession many 
years. Dr. Hayes was united in marriage to Miss Annie R. Aurand, from Pennsylva- 
nia, July 4, 1861 ; they have three children — Harry A., Grace M. and Lalon Z. 

E. HELLER, manufacturer and dealer in furs, hats and caps, No. 82 Ste- 
phenson street; is a native of Germany, and was born in Prussia June 4, 1824; he 
grew up to manhood there, and served apprenticeship to the furrier's trade ; he came to 



632 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

this country in 1849; he engaged in manufacturing furs in Boston, and continued for 
seven years; he came West to Illinois and located in Freeport in March, 1857 ; in the 
fall of the same year he engaged in his present business ; he went to New York and 
bought a stock of goods without any money — they trusted him because of his good 
character ; he has carried on the business here over twenty-three years, and has occupied 
his present location twenty years ; he began without anything, and, by industry and fair 
dealing, has established a good reputation and buiit up a good trade. In September, 
1853. he married Miss Mary Ann Schoettle, from New York ; they have six children 
— Emma, Alfred, Willie, Nettie, Edmund and Mamie. 

J. W. HEMEY, of the firm of J. W. Henney & Co., manufacturers of 
carriages, buggies and road wagons, corner Bridge and Adams streets ; is a native of 
Center Co., Penn., and was born Sept. 23, 1842 ; his parents came West to this county 
in 1848 ; after being here a short time they returned to Pennsylvania, and, in 1854, 
they came again to this county and located permanently. His father was a carriage- 
maker, and he learned his trade of him, serving a thorough apprenticeship ; he after- 
ward worked eleven years in carriage paint works ; in 1 868, he established his present 
business at Cedarville, and successfully carried on the business there until December, 
1879, when he removed his manufacturing business to this city. Mr. Henney was 
united in marriatre, May 26, 1869, to Miss Agnes A. Bennethum, a native of Pennsyl- 
vania ; they have two daughters — Lilly and Mamie, and have lost one son — Arthur. 

MATHIAS HETTINGER, senior member of the banking house of M. 
Hettinger, Collmann Brothers & Co., merchant; was born in Keffenach, Alsace-Loraine, 
France, Jan. 24, 1819, beingtheson of Joseph and Magdalena (Plugmacher) Hettinger ; 
he was educated in his native place, and in 1836, in company with an elder brother, emi- 
grated to America; they located at Williamsville, N. Y., where Mathias worked at the 
trade of wagon-making for two years, and then removed to Canton, Ohio ; from this 
place he went to Portsmouth, Ohio, where he stayed three years, and engaged during 
this period in the manufacture of plows; in 1841, he removed to Freeport, 111., and 
worked as journeyman at wagon-making for a short time, and during the same year 
started a shop on a small scale for manufacturing and repairing wagons, buggies, etc. ; 
he added to this enterprise a blacksmith shop, and employed about seven hands ; in the 
year 1845, he surrendered this business and purchased a brewery, known as the " Yel- 
low Creek " brewery, and continued this establishment for twenty-two years ; during 
this time some important changes occurred by the admission and retirement of one or 
two partners ; Mr. Hettinger also, during this period, bought and cultivated a farm in 
the neighborhood ; in 1865, he was prominently concerned in the formation of the Ger- 
man Insurance Company of Freeport, of which he was the first President ; he was 
chosen to this position in 1866, and retained it until 1871, when he retired for two 
years; again, in 1873, he resumed this office, and now fills it; in 1867, he gave up the 
brewing business, in which he had made a fine reputation and amassed a fortune, and 
in 1870, in partnership with Francis Boekie, commenced to deal in grain ; during this 
year Mr. Boekie retired, and Jacob Williams become a partner, the firm being known 
as Hettinger & Williams ; the business was enlarged to include transactions in coal and 
6alt ; they shipped large quantities of ground feed to North Wisconsin end other points ; 
in 1876, he engaged in the banking business, the firm being M. Hettinger, Collmann 
Brothers & Co. ; Mr. Hettinger has been Supervisor of the town of Silver Creek and 
Freeport, as well as Alderman of the latter city ; he was one of the committee appointed 
to erect the new Freeport Court House, and in all his public service has filled his duties 
with ability and fidelity. In 1845, he was married to Cordelia Torry, of Freeport, 
who died in 1851 ; in 1856, he was married to Elizabeth Gund, of Freeport. 

C. M. H1LLEBRAND, physician and surgeon, 125 Stephenson street. Is a 
native of Germany, and was born in Prussia, Feb. 2, 1842; he grew up and attended 
school there until 13 years of age, and came with his parents to America in 1855; 
they came to Stephenson Co. the same year ; he completed his education and studied 
medicine, and finaily graduated at the University of Berlin, in Prussia, in 1868 ; he 
returned to Freeport and engaged in the practice of medicine, and since then for the 



FREEPORT. 633 

past twelve years has practiced his profession here. He has held the office of 
County Physician for many years. Dr. Hillebrand was united in marriage to Miss Car- 
rie Wenzel, a native of Quincy, III., Dec. 31, 1868; they have five children — 
Fred, Lillie, Ella, Arthur and Homer ; they have lost one daughter, Lydia. 

JACOB HIME, proprietor Hime's Cooper Works, corner Jackson and 
Liberty streets; was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, Feb. 15, 1820; his parents 
came to this country in 1825; he lived in Pennsylvania and learned his trade there; 
he came to Stephenson Co. in May, 1848, and began working at his trade; he car- 
ried on the business until 1868, when he went to Grant Co., Wis., and engaged in 
manufacturing staves and in steam-boatimr, and carried on a large business ; he returned 
to Freeport in May, 1877, and again established his present business and has a large, 
extensive trade; when he began he had nothing, but by industry and close attention 
to business has succeeded. He has held the office of City Alderman. He married 
Miss Saloma De Walt, a native of Pennsylvania, Feb. 7, 1841 ; they have five clildren 
— Amos, Jacob, Annestatia, Levi L. Anna 0.; they have lost three children. 

C M. HINELINE, contractor and builder, Galena street; is a native of 
Northampton Co., Penn., and was born Oct. 31, 1829 ; he grew up to manhood there 
and served apprenticeship as carpenter and joiner ; he came west to Illinois and located 
in Freeport in December, 1855, and began working at his trade; he is, with one 
exception, the oldest builder now in business here, having been engaged in building for 
the past twenty-five years ; he has erected some of the best buildings in Freeport. In 
1850, Mr. Hineline was united in marriage to Miss Emma Lattig, a native of Easton, 
Penn. ; they have had nine children, six of whom are living — Anna, Sarah, James, 
Harry, William and Emma. 

JOHN HOEBEL, dealer in wines and liquors, No. 79 Stephenson street ; 
is a native of Germany and was born in Rhenish-Bavaria Nov. 27, 1825 ; when a boy 
of only 14 years of age, he came alone to this country; he came West to Illinois from 
Logansport, Ind. ; he came by team to Stephenson Co., and arrived in Freeport Aug. 
18, 1842 ; the first man he spoke to after coming here was M. Hettinger; he was one 
of the early settlers here ; he engaged in shoe-making and carried on that business for 
Borne years; he entered the hardware house of Fred Bartlett and remained with him 
about ten years, and afterward engaged in his present business; Mr. Hoebel has lived 
in Freeport thirty -eight years; there are few persons who recollect more distinctly the 
incidents of early days. He has been elected three times to the office of City Alderman, 
and has held the office of City Treasurer ; he is a member of Freeport Lodge, I. 0. 0. F., 
and has been prominently connected with the order for many years ; has held the position 
of Noble Grand, and was three times elected representative to the Grand Lodge of 
the State; he is also a member of Stephen A. Douglas Encampment, and was twice 
elected Representative to the Grand Encampment. Mr. Hoebel was united in marriage, 
Oct. 15, 1848, to Miss Catharine Baier, a native of Rhine- Bavaria, Germany; they 
have five children — Catharine, Philip, Mary, Maggie and Hans; they have lost two 
children. 

DANIEL* HOOVER, manufacturer of laundry and toilet soaps, nor.h of 
the river; residence, Wyandot street ; is a native of Franklin Co., and was born July 
9, 1828 ; when 13 years of age, come to Ohio, and came to Ogle Co., 111., in 1857 ; he 
came to this county in 1865. Just after coming here, he enlisted in the 15th I. V. L, 
Co. C, and served until the close of the war. In the spring of 1866, he established the 
soap business in a small way, gathering his grease with a wheelbarrow ; he has contin- 
ued in the business since then, and has built up a good trade ; his factory was burned 
Jan. 28, 1880; he immediately rebuilt, and it was again destroyed by fire on Feb. 20, 
1880 ; he has since rebuilt, and is in running order, and manufacturing 25,000 pounds 
monthly ; he also carries on the rendering business. Mr. Hoover married Miss Rebecca 
Kirk, a native of Stark Co., Ohio, Sept. 22, 1853; they have seven children — Albert 
M., Cora A., Willis C, Frank E., Clara V., George W. and Myrtle. 

M. HUBER, proprietor Western Brewery, Galena avenue ; was born in 
Alsace, France, Oct. 24, 1838; he came to the United States when 12 years of age, 



634 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

and came to Freeport May 6, 1850 ; he grew up and has lived here over thirty years; 
he engaged in his present business in January, 1880. In 1859, he married Miss 
Susanna Wyant, a native of Prussia ; they have six children — Mary, Emma, Susanna, 
Margaret, John and Frank. 

H. C. HUTCHISON, City Clerk, Freeport; is a native of Center Co., 
Penn., and was born Sept. 30, 1835 ; he grew up and attended school there, and com- 
pleted his education in Massachusetts; he engaged in teaching, and afterward in mer- 
cantile business, until the war ; and during the war he was Military Transportation Agent 
at JefFersonville, Ind. ; he came to Freeport in 1865 ; has been engaged in book-keep- 
ing ; was elected City Clerk in April, 1880. He married Miss Helen Smythe Nov. 25, 
1862 ; she is a native of Center Co., Penn. 

HOLJLIS JEWEIili, capitalist, residence, Stephenson street; was born at 
St. Albans, Franklin Co., Vt., Dec. 25, 1813 ; his parents were Hollis Jewell and 
Elizabeth (Goddard) Jewell ; his education was derived from the public schools, supple- 
mented by after study and observation. In 1831, when 18 years of age, he left his 
home with only $50, and went to Albion, N. Y., where he learned the trade of a carpen- 
ter, remaining there the succeeding three years ; in 1835, he removed to Cleveland, 
Ohio, and for a year pursued his trade there ; in 1837, he went to Chillicothe, Ohio, and 
was engaged in the building of the aqueduct over Flint Creek for the Staie Canal ; 
finally, in 1840, he settled in Freeport, 111., where he has since permanently resided. 
He established himself in business here as a wagon and buggy builder, an occupation 
in which he was engaged for ten yeais ; in 1850, in consequence of bad health, he 
retired from active business life, and for several years was compelled to travel continu- 
ously, in order to regain his forces ; in 1857, his health being improved, he turned his 
attention to real estate operations, the loaning of money, etc. He has devoted much, 
both of his time and means, to the support of the Methodist Church in Freeport, of 
which he is a zealous and active member. Two of the Methodist Churches of this city 
owe their existence and prosperity largely to him, while in the case of one of these, the 
Embury Methodist Episcopal Church, his services were so highly appreciated that it 
was deemed by the managers a fitting measure, to inscribe his name on the church bell. 
Starting away from home to begin life with only $50 in his pocket, Mr. Jewell, by his 
industry, integrity and liberality, though suffering from ill health over quarter of a cen- 
tury, has become one of Freeport' s most successful business men ; though suffering 
constantly, his life has been one of good cheer to every one with whom he came in con- 
tact, and he has a helpful word for all. Soon after coming here, in 1842, Mr. Jewell 
married Mrs. Melinda Webb, formerly Miss Melinda Root, a native of New York State; 
she married Levi J. Webb in 1838 ; they came to Freeport the same year; he died in 
1841, leaving two daugthers, only one of whom suvives, Sarah Amelia, now Mrs. J. H. 
Staver; Mary Adelia died June 29, 1847. Mr. and Mrs. Jewell have had three 
children, none of whom survive — Pathenia, died July 9, 1847; Francis, died Oct. 
14, 1850 ; Rosalia, died Feb. 13, 1853. 

THOMAS W. J OHNSOBT, retired, residence, Galena avenue ; is a native 
of England, and was born Jan. 19, 1825 ; he came to the United States when only 14 
years of age ; landed in New Orleans, came up the river to Galena, and walked from 
Galena to Freeport, and arrived here in the spring of 1839 ; he grew up and attended 
school here, working his own way, sawing wood to pay for his schooling. His industry 
attracted the attention of Mr. D. A. Knowlton, a prominent citizen and a leading mer- 
chant of Freeport, and he offered him a situation as clerk in his store ; he accepted it, 
and received $50 and his board as compensation the first year ; he remained with Mr. 
Knowlton for eight years, saving his earniugs and investing in real estate. In 1853, 
Mr. Johnson was united in marriage to Miss Emily Lezotte, she is a native of Vermont, 
but of French descent. Mr. Johnson was with Mr. George Maynard, now the oldest 
merchant in the city, and remained with him for eighteen years, a part of the time, 
having the entire charge of the business, which he successfully managed with acknowl- 
edged ability ; his success in life is owing to his own efforts, his industry and integrity. 
Mr. and Mrs. Johnson have two children — one son, Holland C, and one daughter, 



FREEPORT. 635 

Althea C. ; Mr. Johnson's parents are still living in England at an advanced age, and 
are both active and well. 

F. L<. JONES, proprietor of the 99-cent store, Stephenson street ; is a na- 
tive of Stephenson Co., and was born at Eleroy Oct. 6, 1853; he grew up and attended 
school here ; after reaching manhood, he sold goods on the road for four years, and 
established his present business in 1879, and is building up a good trade ; he is a mem- 
ber of Winnesheik Lodge, I. 0. 0. F., and also belongs to the encampment. Mr. Jones 
was united in marriage, Sept. 23d, 1878, to Miss A. V. Oilman, a native of Stephen- 
son Co.; they have one daughter — Flora Imogene 

F. E. J OSEIj, City Surveyor ; is a native of Austria, and was born June 26, 
1840 ; he grew up and attended school there, and completed his education in engineer- 
ing and architecture in Vienna, Austria; he came to the United States in 1866, and 
the following year came to Freeport ; he has been engaged in surveying and engineer- 
ing; he was elected County Surveyor and held that office four years; he was elected 
City Surveyor in 1875, and is now serving his fourth term in that office ; Mr. Josel has 
had large experience in his profession ; has made the only accurate map of the city. 
He married Miss Sophia Koehler, a native of Austria, Feb. 17, 1856 ; they have had 
one son, who is not living. 

LOUIS JUNGKUNZ, shaving and hair-dressing saloon, Chicago street ; 
was born in Bavaria, Germany, June 12, 1833 ; he came to the United States in 1853, 
and the following year he came to Stephenson Co. and located in Freeport, and estab- 
lished his present business; he has carried on the business over a quarter of a century 
— a longer time than any barber in Stephenson Co. In 1856, he married Miss Caro- 
line Lucke, a native of Prussia, Germany ; they have four children — Adele W., Will- 
iam Fred, Julia and Louie R.; Mr. Jungkunz belongs to Freeport Lodge, I. 0. 0. F., 
and to the Stephen A. Douglas Encampment. 

REV. CL.EMENT KALVELAGE, Pastor St. Joseph German Catho- 
lic Church ; is a native of Oldenberg, Germany, and was born Nov. 23, 1845 ; he came to 
the United States in 1858, and received his education at St. Francis Seminary, Milwau- 
kee, and in Chicago, and was ordained in Milwaukee Jan. 29, 1869 ; he first officiated 
over St. Francis' Church, Ottawa, 111., and remained there five years, and in 1874 was 
appointed Pastor of St. Joseph Church, and since then has officiated. 

JOHN KERCH, proprietor of the New York House, 53 Galena street; is 
a native of Germany, and was born March 5, 1819 ; he came to the United States in. 
1842, and came to Stephenson Co. and settled in Freeport in December, 1853 ; the 
following year he opened a hotel, and has carried on the hotel business since then, 
a period of twenty-six years ; the New York House is the oldest hotel in Freeport. In 
1845, Mr. Kerch married Miss Mary Hoof, a native of Germany ; they have one daugh- 
ter — Mary Kerch. 

I. E. KLECKNER, County Clerk, Freeport ; is a native of Stephenson 
Co., and was born Jan. 31, 1843; he grew up to manhood on his father's farm. Upon 
the breaking-out of the war in 1861, when only 18 years of age, he enlisted in Co. B, 
46th I. V. I.; he participated in the battles of Fort Donelson and Shiloh, and was 
severely wounded at Shiloh. After his return, he entered school, and afterward en- 
gaged in teaching; he was elected County Superintendent of Schools in 1869, and held 
that office four years ; in 1873, he was elected County Clerk, and was re-elected in 
1877. Mr. Kleckner was united in marriage to Miss Emma T. Robinson, from Taze- 
well Co., 111., in 1870 ; they have two daughters — Eva and Cora. 

I. KI^EIN, wagon aud carriage manufacturer, Bridge street; was born in 
Prussia March 3, 1834; he grew up and beiran to learn his trade there; he came to 
America in 1854, finished learning his trade in New York State, and came to Chicago 
and worked in the extensive wagon factory of Peter Schuttler ; he came to Freeport in 
1856, and established his present business in 1859 ; has successfully carried it on for 
twenty-one years, and has a large trade. In 1858, he married Miss Elizabeth Miller, a 
native of Germany ; she came to this country when only 3 years of age ; they have 



636 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

nine children — five sons and four daughters. Mr. Klein had nothing when he began, 
and owes his success to his own good management. 

DEXTER A. KXOVVLTOBf, deceased; was born in Fairfield, Herki- 
mer Co., N. Y., March 3, 1812; during his infancy, his parents moved to the hills of 
Chautauqua Co., in the western part of the State; here, upon a farm in the town of 
Stockton, were passed his childhood and youth ; his parents were poor, but devout 
Christians, and trained their children in habits of frugality and industry ; even in his 
boyhood he exhibited much of the energy and thrift in ess which, more fully developed 
in after years, paved for him the way leading to his present prominent and enviable 
position ; as he grew older, he manifested an ardent desire to engage in trade, or enter a 
store for the purpose of procuring an insight into the details and workings of active 
business life, but his father, dreading the baneful effects of evil associations, endeavored 
to fix his attention on farming and agricultural pursuits ; he was resolved, however, to 
follow the bent of his inclinations, and, not desiring to succeed at the tr.ide of shoe- 
maker, which his parents had desired that he should embrace, determined to prepare 
himself to enter into a mercantile business, by securing a more thorough and varied 
education; after much opposition on the part of his father, who held in detestation the 
loose and vicious courses of many of the careless students, he succeeded, finally, in enter- 
ing the academy then flourishing at Fredonia, and there prosecuted diligently his stud- 
ies, in the interim, by means of his own exertions, paying for his board and tuition, and 
also furnishing a man to take his place on the parental farm ; shortly before arriving at 
his majority, he returned to his home fully decided to leave the farm, and find employ- 
ment in a store or mercantile house ; in 1838, he started on a peddling trip to the 
West, and in January, 1839, settled at Freeport, 111., where he opened a general store, 
meeting with gratifying success: in 1842, he first went to New York to buy goods, and 
soon established his credit in that city, and also in Chicago; in 1843, began his invest- 
ments and operations in real estate, those ventures resulting, ultimately, in the Knowl- 
ton Additions to the town of Freeport, from which he realized a large sum of money ; 
during 1847-48, he bought wheat heavily, in opposition to all the merchants of the 
town, aud succeeded finally in carrying his intentions to a victorious issue; he was 
importantly and pecuniarily interested in the Galena & Chicago Union Railroad, which 
was one of the first roads projected out of Chicago ; in 1850, he was elected a Director 
of the company, and during the following twelve year* was annually re-elected to the 
same position, whose duties he performed with energy and ability ; he never cared for or 
sought political preferment, and when the nomination for Governor of the State was 
urged upon him by the Free-Soil party, he accepted it only because he knew that its pow- 
ers were too weak to elect its candidate; in 1855, he built a house at Westfield, N. Y., 
purposing to withdraw from the turmoil of active business life, but he was restless in the 
retirement, which cramped his energies and activities; in 1861, he purchased, for 
$100,000, the Empire Spring at Saratoga, and afterward joined the proprietors of the 
famous Congress Spring, and, in conjunction with them, organized the Congress and 
Empire Spring Company ; after living on Brooklyn Heights for a period of four years, 
he returned to Freeport, 111., in 1870, in order to be near his six children ; three of his 
sons were associated with him in the banking business in this town, and are favorably 
known for their business abiliries and trustworthiness. He was married, Jan. 15, 1834, 
to Evelina Arnold, to whom he attributes a great measure of his success in life, and who 
died in August. 1874. He continued in the banking business until his death, which 
occurred March 10, 187G. 

H. P. KOCHSMEIER, foreman of factory of William P. Emmert : is a 
native of Stephenson Co., and was born in Freeport, July 27, 1851 ; he grew up and 
attended school and learned his trade here, and worked in manufacturing agricultural 
implements for some years ; he has held the position of foreman of the factory of W. 
P. Emmert since 1875. Mr. Kochsmeier was united in marriage to Miss Dora A. 
Jastram, in this city, May 20, 1878. 

JOHN KOEHIjER, proprietor livery, sale and boarding stable, corner Me- 
chanic and Galena streets ; is a native of the State of Ohio, and was born Oct. 26, 



FREEPORT. 637 

1837 ; his parents came to Stephenson Co. in 1839, and he grew up to manhood on a 
farm ; in 1862, he engaged in his present business, and has carried it on for the past 
eighteen year^ ; he has a nice stock of horses and has a good trade ; he is a member of 
Freeport Lodge, I. 0. 0. F., and also of the Encampment and the Germania Society. 
He married Miss Theresa Miller, in this city, Dec. 18, 1861 ; she is a native of Ger- 
many ; they have six children — Eda, Emma, Clara, Otto, Florence and Walter. 

A. C KRAFT, of the firm of Kraft Brothers, proprietors of Kraft's Hotel, 
east side the river; is a native of Baden, Germany, and was born April 11, 1843 ; he 
came to the United States in 1854, aud came to Freeport the same year ; he grew up 
and atteuded school in this State and Iowa ; he has resided here permanently since 
1867 ; he built the Kraft House in 1870, and since then the Kraft Brothers have con- 
ducted this hotel. In October, 1867, Mr. Kraft married Miss Matilda Zimmer, a 
native of Hanover, Germany ; they have one son — Arthur W. 

EDWARD KRAFT, of the firm of Kraft Brothers, proprietors Kraft 
House; was born in Baden, Germany, in 1847; came to America in 1854; he grew 
up to manhood in this State and Iowa; he has lived here since 1863; learned the 
baker's trade, and in 1870 engaged in the hotel business, built the Kraft House, and 
have conducted it since then. In 1873, he married Miss Agnes Hess, of Darlington, 
Wis. 

p J A COR K R01B.X, manufacturer of fine cigars and wholesale dealer in cigars, 

^ tobacco and smoking goods, 103 Stephenson street; is a native of Germany, and was 
born in Prussia, Feb. 22, 1832 ; he grew up and learned the trade of manufacturer of 
cigars and tobacco ; after reaching manhood he came to the United States, in 1852 ; he 
came West to Illinois and located in Freeport in May, 1855, and established his present 
business in a small place on Stephenson street ; thoroughly understanding his business 
and applying himself closely, he built up a good trade, and has successfully carried on 
the business over a quarter of a century. Two years after coming to Freeport, Mr. 
Krohn returned to New York, and on the 22d of March, 1857, was united in marriage 
to Miss Dora Fleischman, a native of Bavaria, Germany. Mr. Krohn has held many 
offices of honor and trust ; in 1864 he was elected Alderman, and was re-elected to the 
same position in 1866; in 1873 he was elected Mayor of the city, and in 1875 he was 
elected Supervisor, and was a member of the Building Committee for building the court 
house, and gave it his personal attention; in 1877 he was again elected Mayor of the 
city ; he was a member of the Board of Education three years, and was chosen Presi- 
dent of the board one year. Mr. Krohn is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and has 
been prominently identified with the order for a quarter of a century ; while living in 
New York he joined Ulster Lodge 193 A., F. & A. M., at Saugerties, Feb. 7, 1855 ; 
after coming to Freeport in 1856 he joined Excelsior Lodge, 97 ; he is also a member 
of Freeport Chapter, and is serving his second term as presiding officer of that body ; 
he also belongs to the Freeport Consistory, and has held the position of Treasurer for 
the past three years ; he has held the position of Grand Junior Warden and Grand 
Senior Warden of the Grand Lodge ; was elected Grand High Priest, and afterward, 
in 1875, was elected Grand Patriarch ; in 1876 was elected Grand Representative to 
the Grand Lodge ; he is a Director in the Illinois Masonic Benevolent Society, and holds 
the responsible position of Chairman of Finance Committee, and to his earnest efforts 
more thau any one else does the society owe the establishment of its permanent reserve 
surplus fund ; there are few men better known to the order in this State than Mr. 
Krohn ; Mr. Krohn is also prominently connected with the fraternity of I. 0. 0. F. ; 
he became a member of Winnesheik Lodge, No. 30, in 1856; in the following year he 
withdrew to organize Freeport Lodge, No. 239, and was one of the charter members ; he 
was a member of Western Star Encampment, No. 25 ; he afterward was prominent in 
organizing Stephen A. Douglas Encampment, -No. 100, and was chosen the first pre- 
siding officer of that body. Mr. Krohn has been actively and prominently identified 
with the interests of Freeport and Stephenson Co. for twenty-five years, and is noted 
for his generosity, and is one of the most successful men in this section of the State. 
He has been a Director of the Second National Bank for many years. Mr. and Mrs. 



638 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES : 

Krohn have eight children — one son and seven daughters ; they have one of the finest 
and most attractive homes in the city or in this part of the State. 

D. KIIEH1VER, wholesale and retaiPdealer in furniture, corner of Galena and 
Exchange streets; is a native of Germany, and was born Sept. 1, 1830; he grew up 
to manhood, and learned the furniture trade; he came to the United States in 1851 ; 
lived in Ohio five years, and came to Stephenson Co. in April, 1856, and iocated in 
Freeport. The following year, in 1857, he bought the lot on the corner of Galena and 
Exchange streets, and established his present business, and has carried it on for twenty- 
three years on the same corner ; he is the oldest furniture dealer in Freeport ; when he 
began he only had a little ; but by close attention to business and good management he 
has established a large trade, and is one of the most successful merchants in this city. 
In 1869, he built the large block corner Galena and Exchange streets ; he has erected 
several stores on Galena and Stephenson streets. In January, 1854, Mr. Kuehner 
married Miss Hannah Leander, a native of Germany ; they have five children — Louis J., 
Willie, Fred, Hannah and Darius R. Mr. and Mrs. Kuehner have one of the finest 
homes in the city, located on Stephenson street. 

THEODORE KUNDINGER, of the firm of Kundinger & Hart, dealers 
in clothing and gents' furnishing goods, and merchant tailors, 123 Stephenson street; 
is a native of Germany, and was born April 16, 1835; he came to the United States 
in 1851, and came West to Illinois in 1857 ; lived in Peoria; he came to Freeport in 
1866; in 1874, he engaged in the clothing business, and has carried on the business 
since then, and the firm have built up a good trade. In July, 1866, Mr. Kundinger 
was united in marriage to Miss Mary E. Cobbs, from Jacksonville, 111. ; they have three 
children — Dora, Birdie and Mary. 

DANIEL KUNZ, bakery and restaurant, No. 88 Stephenson street; is a 
native of Hesse Darmstadt, Germany, and was born Aug. 28, 1822; he came to the 
United States in July, 1 846 ; he lived in New York City ten years, and was engaged 
in the bakery business; he came to Stephenson Co. in January, 1856, and settled in 
Freeport, and engaged in his present business, and has carried it on for twenty five 
years. He has been twice married ; his first wife was Sophia Graeser, from Baden, 
Germany ; his present wife was Kate Stes, a native of Germany ; he has three children — 
Lena, George, and Emma. 

W. S. JLAMB, of the firm of T. A. Stiles & Co., founders and machinists, 
manufacturers of cultivators, Bridge street ; is a native of Delaware Co., Ohio, and was 
born Dec. 1, 1828; he grew up and attended school there; after reaching manhood 
he engaged in business, and was for eight years a member of the firm of Bradley, Burn- 
ham, Lamb & Co. ; they were extensively engaged in the manufacture of engines, 
boilers and machinists' tools; he came to Freeport in 1859. and remained a short time; 
then returned East; in 1868, he came here and located permanently; in 1876, he asso- 
ciated with his present partner, Mr. Stiles, and engaged in their present business, and 
they have built up a large trade. In 1864, Mr. Lamb was united in marriage to Miss 
Anna M. Fry, daughter of Hon. C. J. Fry, of this city ; they have one son — Robert 
Belden Lamb. 

O. C IjATHROI*, attorney-at-law, corner of Stephenson and Chicago 
streets ; is a native of Washington Co., Vt., and was born May 12, 1840 ; his parents 
came West to Illinois, and located at Aurora in 1843 ; he grew up and attended school 
there, and then went East and completed his literary course at the Lamoille Grammar 
School, in Vermont ; after his return he decided to study law ; and, on the morning of the 
day he began reading law, news came of the attack upon Ft. Sumter ; he enlisted 
the same day in Co. C, the first company from Aurora, in the 7th I. V. I. ; three-months 
service. Upon his return, he pursued his law studies in Aurora and Chicago ; and was 
admitted to the bar in 1865 ; he practiced law then until 1869 ; then went to Michigan, 
and was engaged in practice there six years; he camo to Freeport in 1875, and since 
then has practiced his profession here ; he has held the office of City Attorney here. 

JOHN liAWLiESS, of the firm of Lawless, Wohlford & Lawless, manu- 
facturers of lime, and dealers in lime, cement, stucco and plastering hair ; came to 



FREEPORT. 639 

Stephenson Co. when quite small, and has grown up to manhood here ; in 1877 he 
engaged in manufacturing lime ; the present firm established their business in Freeport 
in February, 1880, and are building up a good trade. 

MICHAEL LAWVER. residence on Lincoln avenue ; is a native of the 
State of Pennsylvania, and was born in Mifflin Co. (now Juniata Co.), Jan. 3, 1812 ; 
he grew up to manhood there ; in 1846, he came West by wagon, and was about six 
weeks on the way, and arrived in this county May 26, 1846 ; he located at Lena, en- 
tered land where the town now stands, and made a farm ; he was one of the early set- 
tlers there, and was prominently identified with the laying-out, starting and building 
up of that town ; there were few persons in the county more ready to aid settlers who 
came here without means ; he entered land for them, loaned them money to enter their 
land, and waited until they could repay him, without obliging them to pay 25 per cent 
interest ; he was actively engaged in mercantile business and railroading. He held the 
office of School Trustee of the town over fifteen years, and was Clerk and member of 
the Board of Supervisors a number of times, and other town and school offices. Mr. 
Lawver owes his success in life to his own efforts. He has been twice married ; his first 
wife was Catharine Shellenbarger, a native of Pennsylvania ; she died in January, 
1869, leaving eight children — John (now in Missouri), Aaron (in the U. S. Mint in 
California), Jennie (now Mrs. H. C. Burchard), Isaiah (an attorney in St. Louis), 
Susan (now Mrs. George Fry, Chicago), Peter (physician, Washington), Mary (now 
Mrs. Charles Leggett, Grand Rapids, Mich.), Fannie (now Mrs. C. B. Fitch, of this 
city). In 1870, Mr. Lawver married Mary Louise Williams, a native of Connecticut ; 
they have three children — Charles, Ida and Hiram. 

J. R. LEIGH, Sheriff of Stephenson Co.; is a native of Washington Co., 
N. Y.,and was born April 19, 1832 ; he grew up to manhood in that State, and learned 
the trade of carpenter and joiner; he came West to Illinois in 1856, and located in 
Stephenson Co.; engaged in working at his trade. After the war broke out, he enlisted 
in the 92d I. V. I., and was Orderly Sergeant of Co. A ; he served three years and 
participated in many severe battles and skirmishes ; he was wounded in the battle of 
Aiken, S. C. After the war he engaged in buying grain. In 1876, he was elected Sher- 
iff of this county, and was re-elected in 1878. In 1859, Mr. Leigh was united in mar- 
riage to Miss Harriet L. Pickard, a native of Stephenson Co.; they have four children 
— Clarence W., Iva C, Jessie and Jennie. 

GEORGE LICHTENBERGER, of the firm of Lichtenberger Broth- 
ers, dealers in fresh and salt meats, Chicago street, between Stephenson and Galena ; 
is a native of Germany, and was born in the Kingdom of Bavaria, Aug. 20, 1834; his 
parents came to America, and arrived at New Orleans Christmas morning, 1847 ; they 
came to Freeport in 1848 ; arrived here about the 1st of August ; the following year 
he went to New York City, and lived there until the spring of -1853 ; then returned 
here ; in 1855 he began the butchering business ; in 1860 he went out to the moun 
tains ; after his return, in 1861, he established his present business; he and his brother 
are associated together, and have a leading trade, and their market is one of the oldest 
in the city. Mr. Lichtenberger has held the office of City Treasurer ; he has been con- 
nected with the Fire Department since 1856, and has served as Assistant Foreman and 
Foreman, Assistant Chief, and was chosen Chief Engineer of the department, which 
position he has recently resigned. Mr. Lichtenberger married Miss Mary Colley, a 
native of Onondaga Co., N. Y., Nov. 16, 1859; they have four children — Edmund J., 
Clara, Agnes and Louise. 

HENRY LICHTENBERGER, of the firm of Lichtenberger Bros., 
proprietors Center Market, dealers in fresh and salted meats, Chicago street ; is a native 
of Germany, and was born Sept. 29, 1837 ; his parents came to the United States in 
1847. and the following year came to Stephenson Co. ; he engaged in his present busi- 
ness in 1861. He was elected City Alderman, and served in that position six years ; he 
was elected Supervisor in 1878 and re-elected in 1879, and again re-elected in 1880, 
serving his third term as a member of the board. In 1862 he was united in marriage 



640 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

to Miss Johanna Meyer, a native of Hanover, Germany ; they have six children — Fred, 
Albert, Ellen, Martha, Josephine and William. 

C H. LITTLE, wholesale and retail dealer in crockery, 72 Stephenson 
street ; is a native of the State of Massachusetts ; he grew up to manhood in that State, 
and came West to Illinois and located in Freeport in 1855 ; in 1859 he established his 
present business, and has successfully carried it on over twenty years, and has a large 
established trade; he carries a large stock of goods, occupying two stores; his retail 
department is arranged with great taste, and he has one of the most attractive stores in 
the State or in the West. Mr. Little had nothing when he began, but by great energy 
and close attention to business has become one of the most successful merchants in 
Northern Illinois. In 1857, Mr. Little was united in marriage to Miss Sarah C. Dyss- 
lin, from Springfield, Mass. ; she is a native of Herkimer Co., N. Y. 

JOS! X LOOS, manufacturer and dealer in harness ; also, dealer in saddles, 
trunks, valises, etc., Galena avenue, north of Galena street ; is a native of Germany, and 
was born Dec. 6, 1840, in County Reinich. Grand Duchy of Luxemburg: his parents 
came to America in 1852, and located in Ogle Co. ; he came to Freeport in 1862, and 
learned his trade here ; he engaged in business for himself in June, 1869, and has estab- 
lished a good trade. Mr. Loos was united in marriage at Freeport Nov. 27, 1865, to Miss 
Mary Suhns, born May 14, 1847, at Eblington, Grosherzogtum Boxberg Baden; they 
have eight children — Ferdinand, born Nov. 1, 1866; John, born Dec. 24, 1867 ; Da- 
mien, born May 11, 1869; Mary, born Nov. 6, 1871 ; Elizabeth, born May 14, 1872; 
Franzceskus, born Oct. 24, 1873; Anna, born Sept. 7, 1875, and William, born Dec. 
13, 1877. 

N. G. LOOS, manufacturer and dealer in harness, saddlery, hardware, trunks, 
etc., No. 145 Stephenson street; is a native of Germany, and was born Dec. 21, 1847 ; 
his parents came to the United States in 1856, and came to Illinois and settled in Ogle 
Co. ; he learned his trade in this city ; when he completed his trade he only had SI. 50 ; 
he engaged in business for himself in 1868; by industry and close attention to business 
he has built up a good trade. In 1869 he was united in marriage to Miss Catharine 
Ryan, in Rockford, 111. ; they have three children — Nellie, Frances and Gertrude. 

JAMES C. McGRATH, of the firm of Seitz & McGrath, publishers of 
the Freeport Daily Herald ; is a native of Stephenson Co. and was born in Freeport 
Aug. 8, 1856 ; he grew up and attended school here ; in 1873 he entered the office of 
the Bulletin, where he learned the printing business ; he has been connected with the 
Herald since it was established, in April, 1877. 

WILLIAM McHEtfRY, photograph artist, 105 Stephenson street ; is a 
native of Chautauqua Co., N. Y., and was born March 28, 1836; he came West to 
Racine, Wis., in 1856; he came to Freeport in 1863, and established his present busi- 
ness and has carried it on for the past seventeen years. In 1865 he married Miss 
Amanda Black, a native of Canton, Ohio ; they have had three children — Alice, Georgie 
and Gracia. 

D. A. McMILLAtf, of the firm of McMillan & Smith, dealers in lumber, 
lath, shingles and timber, 32 Stephenson street ; is a native of Canada ; he received his 
education in the State of New York ; he came West to Wisconsin, in 1855, and came 
to Stephenson Co. and located in Freeport. in 1863, and engaged in the lumber busi- 
ness ; he is largely interested in pine lands, and has manufactured extensively for the 
Chicago market, his sales there amounting to as high as six million feet annually. Mr. 
McMillan is the oldest dealer in lumber in Freeport, and has always transacted a large 
business here. 

.TAMES McNAMARA, wholesale and retail dealer in boots and shoes, 87 
Stephenson street; is a native of the State of Ohio, and was born in Fremont, Sandusky 
Co., Aug. 27, 1846 , he grew up and attended school there ; after reaching manhood, he 
came to Stephenson Co., and located in Freeport in 1867, and established his present 
business ; he has built up a large and leading trade. In 1870, Mr. McNamara was 



FREEPORT. 641 

united in marriage to Miss Mary Lane, a native of Delaware, Ohio ; they have one daugh- 
ter — Lulu. 

W. P. MAIjBURN, dealer in wines and liquors, Stephenson street, corner 
Liberty; is a native of Albany, N. Y., and was born March 11, 1815 ; he grew up to 
manhood there ; he came West and located in Stephenson Co., in April, 1857 and 
engaged in the grain business, and since then has been engaged in business here. Mr. 
Malburn married Miss Laura A. Kinney, a native of Onondaga Co., N. Y. ; they have 
had three children, only one of whom survives. 

REV. THOMAS F. MANGAN, Pastor of St. Mary's Catholic Church ; 
is a native of Ireland and was born in County Clare Dec. 18, 1826 ; he grew up and 
attended school and received part of his education there, and came to Canada in 1847 
and pursued a course of study at the College of Ottawa ; he came to St. Louis in 1857, 
and was ordained in that city by Bishop Duggan Jan. 23, 1858, and since then, for the 
past twenty-two years, he has officiated in this State; he came to this county in 1874, 
and officiated as Pastor of St. Mary's Church since 1877. 

PEIjIjS MAKBIY, pioneer, farmer and manufacturer, of Illinois ; was born 
at Amsterdam, Montgomery Co., N. Y., Aug. 17, 1802 ; his parents were Gabriel 
Manny and Elizabeth (Pells) Manny ; his first occupation after leaving school consisted 
in managing a boat on the waters of the Erie Canal, New York, and at this he continued 
for about seven years ; in 1836, he removed from Amsterdam to the State of Illinois, 
and commenced farming on the prairie, in the vicinity of a place then called Yankee 
Settlement, the county at that early date being totally unorganized and ver} T sparsely 
settled. In 1838, he received the appointment of Postmaster at Waddams Grove, in 
what is now Stephenson Co. ; this position he retained for a period of sixteen years, and 
fifteen years after its relinquishment the Post Office discovered that it was in- 
indebted to him to the amount of $17, and that sum was subsequently remitted to him 
in a post office draft at Amsterdam. The attention of farmers was then being directed 
to farm machinery, for labor was difficult to procure, and expensive to retain through 
the season of compulsory idleness, and a vast amount of produce was annually lost or 
destroyed simply through the lack of help in harvesting and gathering; his attention 
was called to an account of a machine invented in Europe by the Gauls some 300 years 
ago, and adapted to harvesting purposes, and, from the description thus procured, he 
originally conceived the idea ultimately the motor power of such important results In 
1849, his first patent for the " Manny Reaper " was obtained ; he had previously been 
experimenting for some time, and had invented a machine for cutting off the heads of 
the grain, which, however, was quickly superseded by the reaper ; the latter invention 
was not introduced without considerable difficulty, as the farmers did not primarily 
appear to comprehend thoroughly and with sufficient quickness the method of manag- 
ing it, and about $20,000 were expended in perfecting the machines before they could 
be got to work successfully, but, in 1852, the reaper was at length brought to a state of 
comparative perfection, and began to be sought for by agriculturalists, and in the follow- 
ing year his son, J. N. Manny, began its manufacture also, at Rockford, Winnebago Co. 
In 1856, he established a factory at Freeport, and thenceforth the business grew with a 
marvelous rapidity, until within a brief period the annual product rose to several 
thousands. At the present time the manufactories of " Manny's Reapers " are estab- 
lished in various parts of the country and in successful operation, while the machines- 
are extensively used in every State in the Union ; since 1849, he has been connected 
with various parties in the reaper manufacturing business, but lately has, in a great 
measure, relinquished those associations on account of the enfeeblement of his health, 
and withdrawn from the turmoil of active business life. Among others who were con- 
nected with him in a business capacity for a shorter or longer period, was his son-in-law, 
Jeremiah Pattison Mr. Manny is not. as many suppose, the first inventor of reapers and 
mowers, but the immediate agent in their perfection. The " Walter A. Wood Machine," 
at Hoosic Falls, N. Y., is an offshoot of the Manny machines ; the right of manufacture 
was sold by him to W. A. Wood, who has since added various improvements, and pros- 
pered so greatly in his business that he has now the largest manufactory in the world. 



642 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES : 

M. MARVIN, attorney at law, Opera House block ; is a native of Livingston 
Co., N. Y., and was born June 17, 1828 ; he came to Fulton Co., 111., in 1838; he 
grew up and received his education in this State ; he first came to Freeport in July, 
1847 ; in 1850, he went to Jo Daviess Co. and studied law, and was admitted to the 
bar in 1855, and engaged in the practice of law. In 1861, he was elected County Judge, 
and held that office eight years ; he also held the office of Postmaster at Warren. In 
1872, he came to Freeport, and since then has practiced his profession here. In 1849, 
Judge Marvin married Miss Louise Marshall, a native of Vermont; she died in 1857, 
leaving one son — Walter; in 1861, he married Martha J. Jones, from Wisconsin ; they 
have seven children — Edith, Matthew, Evelyn, Percival, Fred, Herbert, and infant 
daughter. 

GEORGrE MAYXARD, merchant, dealer in dry goods, notions and car- 
pets, No. 133 Stephenson street; is a native of Oxford, Worcester Co., Mass. ; he grew 
up and attended school in that State, and prepared for college ; he came West to Illinois 
and located in Freeport, in August, 1850 ; he established his present business in the 
spring of 1852, and has successfully carried on business here for twenty-eight years, a 
greater length of time than any merchant in Freeport ; during that time, in the several 
financial revolutions through which he has passed, he has always paid 100 cents on the 
dollar ; he began life with very little, but, applying himself closely to the details of his 
business, and by his integrity in commercial life, he has become one of the most suc- 
cessful merchants in this State ; the mercantile house of George Maynard is the oldest 
in Stephenson Co. ; in 1873, he went abroad, making an extensive tour through Europe, 
Asia, Africa, Egypt and the Holy Land ; he has been actively identified with the inter- 
ests of Stephenson Co. over a quarter of a century. 

ESROM MAYER, cashier of bank of M. Hettinger, Collman Bros. & Co. ; 
is a native of Lancaster Co., Penn., and was born April 21, 1837 ; when 10 years of 
age, his parents came West to Stephenson Co., and located in Freeport, in 1847 ; he 
grew up and attended school, and in 1855, entered the bank of Oscar Taylor; in 1857, 
he entered the bank of De Forest & Co., and in 1860, he became a partner; upon the 
organization of the First National Bank, he was elected Cashier, and held that position 
until 1870 ; in May, 1876, he entered the bank of M. Hettinger, Collman Bros. & Co., 
and since then has held his present position. In I860, Mr. Mayer was united in 
marriage to Miss Mary M. Hane, from Canton, Ohio ; they have four children — Addie 
E., Anna B., Mary L. and Grace E. 

U. D. MEACHAM, attorney and counselor at law, corner Stephenson and 
Chit-ago streets ; is a native of the State of New York, and was born in Genesee Co., 
now Wyoming Co., March 12, 1816; he went to Michigan in 1828, and grew up and 
attended school there; then came to Walworth Co., Wis., where he studied law, and 
was admitted to the bar in 1846 ; after bein^ admitted, he practiced law there until 
coming to Stephenson Co., in 1852 ; he located in Freeport and engaged in the practice 
of law. He has held the office of State's Attorney for this district, and was elected Mayor 
of the city of Freeport; while living in Wisconsin, when quite a young man, he was 
elected State's Attorney, and he.d that office four years, and also held the office of 
Postmaster of Elkhorn four years. Mr. Meacham has practiced his profession in this 
county twenty-eight years. He married Eliza A. Thompson, a native of New York, in 
1864 ; they have two children — Jessie and James : Mr. Meacham has one son, William 
P., by a former wife, now living in Walworth Co., Wis. 

L. A. MEASE, physician and surgeon, Munn's Building, corner Stephenson 
and Van Buren streets; is a native of Union Co., Penn., and was born Sept. 26, 1820 ; 
when only nine years of age, his parents removed to Ohio ; he grew up and attended 
school there; he afterward studied medicine; he came to Stephenson Co. in 1845, 
and engaged in the practice of medicine ; he attended lectures and graduated at Bush 
Medical College, Chicago, in 1851 ; he also took an additional course and graduated at 
Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, in 1856 ; Dr. Mease has practiced his profession 
here for a a period of thirty-five years, and is the oldest practicing physicidn in Stephen- 
son Co. ; Dr. Mease is a great student, and has written much for the advancement of 



FREEPORT. 643 

the profession ; his library contains some of the rarest and most valuable works to be 
found in this country. Dr. Mease has been twice married ; in January, 1845, he married 
Sarah Jane Patton, from Clarion Co., Penn. ; she died in 1850, leaving two children — 
Pancoast and Flora M. C. He married Angeline A. Fisher, from Union Co., Penn., 
Aug. 2, 1851 ; they have one son — D. C. L. Mease, now attending university at Madison ; 
lost one sou — VelpeaUj at the age of 19; he was reading medicine. Dr. Mease holds 
the position of President of the Stephenson Co. Society of Physicians and Surgeons ; he 
was prominent iu organizing the society, and was chosen its first President. 

EDMUND M. MERCK, dealer in fresh and salted meats, Exchange street, 
north of Galena street; is a native of Alsace, France, and was born Sept. 27, 1853 ; 
he came to the United -States in 1871, and came to Stephenson Co. the same year ; in 
1872, he established his present business, and has carried it on for eight years, and has 
built up a good trade. In 1876, he married Miss Josephine Schmich, from this county ; 
they have two children — Mary L. J. and Rosa D. Mr. Merck is a member of the Fire 
Department, and of the German Benevolent Society. 

CHARLES E. MEYER, manufacturer of vinegar, Spring street, near 
depot I. C. and C. & N. W. R. R. ; is a native of Germany, and was born in Hanover, 
July 21, 1832 ; he emigrated to America in 1853, and came to Freeport in 1855 ; in 
1860, he opened an eating house, and continued in that business fourteen years; in 
1874, he engaged in manufacturing vinegar, and since then has continued in that busi- 
ness, and is building up a large trade. In 1856, he was united in marriage to Miss 
Fredrika Kraft, a native of Baden, Germany ; they have three children — Emma, Alma 
and Charles ; they have lost one daughter, Jennie. 

Ii. METZGER, meat market, corner Delaware and Kickapoo streets ; was 
born in Baden, Germany, Oct. 26, 1826 ; he came to America in 1852, and came to 
Freeport in May, 1854, and worked at his trade of stone-mason and brick-layer until 
1876, when he opened a meat market. He married Miss Eva Heitzman, from Baden, 
Germany, Aug. 28, 1852; they have three children — Peter, Amelia and Joseph. 

F. I. MIDDLEDITCH, of the firm of Middleditch & Potter, jobbers f 
foreign and domestic wines and liquors, No. 47 Stephenson street, corner Exchange ; is a 
native of Erie Co., N. Y., and was born in the city of Buifalo ; he grew up to manhood 
in that State; he came to Stephenson Co., and located in Freeport in 1865, and estab- 
lished his present business, and the firm of Middleditch & Potter have successfully 
carried on the business for the past fifteen years, and have built up a large trade. Mr. 
Middleditch was elected a member of the Board of Supervisors, and held that office two 
years, and has held the office of Chief Engineer of the Fire Department. He was 
united in marriage to Miss Mary Ryan, in Buffalo, N. Y"., Dec. 25, 1854 ; they have 
two children — Marie and Frances. 

J. H. MILLER, livery, sale and boarding stable, corner Bridge and Chicago 
streets; is a native of Berks Co., Penn., and was. born Oct. 14, 1825 ; he grew up and 
lived there until 1847, when he came West, and located in Stephenson Co., at Buena Vista, 
and engaged in milling; in 1856, he engaged in livery and stock business; he has 
carried on the livery business for twenty-four years ; he has held the office of City 
Alderman four years. In 1845, he married Elizabeth Shilling, from Berks Co., Penn. ; 
she died in November, 1863, leaving two sons — Milton E. and De Witt C. In October, 
1865, he married Helen Webster, a native of Hull, England, daughter of Thomas 
Webster, of this city. 

GEORGE MILNER, of the firm of Milner Bros. ; proprietor of the Al- 
bion Brewery, Chicago street; is a native of England, and was born June 12, 1828; 
after reaching manhood he came to the United States in 1848 ; he came West to Illi- 
nois the same year, and came to Freeport and established his present business with his 
brother in 1865, and they have carried on the business since. Mr. Milner married 
Miss Mary E. Lander, a native of England ; they have three children — John T., Eve- 
lina and Fred A. 



644 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

JOSEPH MILNER, of the firm of Milner Bros. ; proprietor of the Al- 
bion Brewery, Chicago street; is a native of England, and was bom July 24, 1831 ; he 
came to the United States in 1849, and came to Freeport in 1855 and engaged in the 
grocery trade ; in 1865 they established their present business, and have carried it on 
since then. In 1854 Mr. Milner married Miss Ellen Carter, a native of England; 
they have four children — Anna, John G., William and Joseph. Mr. Milner has held 
the office of Commissioner of Highways. 

JAMES MITCHELL, deceased, banker and real estate operator; was born 
in Cumberland Co., Penn., in 1810 ; his parents were James A. Mitchell, a Major in 
the war of 1812, and Mary (Scroggs) Mitche.ll ; his earlier education was acquired in 
the neighboring common schools of his native place; thence he removed, in 1827, to 
the vicinity of the Galena Lead Mines, 111 He was an active and a prominent partici- 
pant in the Black Hawk Indian war of 1832 and 1833, and throughout the conflict 
performed valiant and efficient service; in 1838, he returned to Roekford, and was 
appointed Clerk of the Circuit Court of Winnebago Co.; in 1842, he was appointed 
Canal Commissioner by Gov. Ford, and served in this capacity during the ensuing two 
years ; in 1846, he was given the appointmemt of Agent for mineral lands, lead mines, 
for collecting dues, selling lands, etc. This position he held until its abolishment, in 
1848, conducting himself in the interim wiih rectitude and ability ; he subsequently 
removed to Freeport, and there became engaged in the real estate business, in which he 
continued until 1852 ; in the course of the same year he establishad the Stephenson 
Countv Bank, and was actively and constantly engaged in connection with that institution, 
until his demise in August, 1874. In all that concerned the status and welfare, social 
and political, of his adopted State and county, he ever evinced a warm and generous 
interest, and was a valued and energetic co-worker in all movements and enterprises hav- 
ing for their end the increased well-being of the general community, amid which he was 
an honored and beloved citizen. He was married, in 1838, to Mary Thornton, of Ken- 
tucky ; again, in 1843, to Mrs. James W. Stephenson, of Galena, 111., and again, subse- 
quently, in 1848, to Miss Catharine Clark, of Michigan, who survives him. The last- 
named lady is the daughter of Robert Clark, formerly for several years member of 
Congress for the Territory of Michigan, and sister of Gen. John A. Clark, Surveyor 
General of Utah and New Mexico, under the administration of Abraham Lincoln. Mr. 
and Mrs. Mitchell had seven children, four of whom survive — Mary, now Mrs. J. W. 
Neff; Miss Kittie, Ellen K., now Mrs. C. E. Scott ; and John C. 

JACOB MOLTER, of the firm of Friedag & Molter, manufacturers and 
dealers in harness, saddles and trunks, 59 Stephenson street ; is a native of Germany 
and was born Aug. 3, 1835 ; came to the United States in 1850 and came to Freeport 
the same year; he learned his trade here ; in 1866 he engaged in business for himself, 
and in 1869 he associated with his present partner, and they have built up a good 
trade. He married Miss Catharine Knicht. a native of Germany, March 26, 1860 
they have seven children — Willie, August, Julia, Philip, Emile, Carl and Fritz. Mr. 
Molter is a member of the fraternity of I. 0. 0. F. and the Encampment ; also belongs 
to the Germania Society and the Sons of Hermann, and to the Fire Department. 

MORCirAN BROTHERS, novelty iron works, iron and brass founders 
and manufacturers of swords, patent wind-mills and iron pumps, corner Chicago and 
Jackson streets; was established here in 1867; the firm consists of E. H. and Charles 
Morgan ; they are natives of Duchess Co., N. Y., and came with their parents to 
Stephenson Co. in 1853 ; they established their present business in 1867, and have car- 
ried it on since then ; they have a large practical experience in their line of business, 
and have built up a lar^e trade. 

LEVI L. MIINN, capitalist, was born in Madrid, St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., Sept. 
1, 1829; his parents were Abel Munn and Susannah (Barnuin) Munn ; he was the 
recipient of a common-school education ; in 1846, he removed to Freeport, 111., in order 
to join his elder brother, and there was occupied in working on his farm in summer and 
attending school during the winter months ; in 1848, he attended also, for one year, the 



FREEPORT. 645 

sessions of a neighboring select school ; in 1849-50, he taught school in the northern 
part of Stephenson Co., and in the course of the latter year established himself in busi- 
ness in Freeport, as an insurance agent, representing several New York insurance com- 
panies, for the States of Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin and Indiana. In 1853, he organized 
the first insurance company formed in Freeport, the " Stephenson Insurance Company," 
of which he became Secretary, continuing to act in that capacity until 1865, when he 
resigned on account of continued ill health ; in 1866, he established a dry goods busi- 
ness in partnership with his brother, under the style of 0. V. & L. L. Munn ; this 
business, subsequently entirely his own, through the purchase of his brother's interest, 
he ultimately disposed of in 1869; in 1871, he bought a half-interest in the Freeport 
gas works, " The Freeport Gas-light and Coke Company," which business he still 
carries on in partnership with L. Z. Farwell ; prior to this, in 1855, he had become 
interested in real-estate operations, and built the block known as Munn's Building ; in 
the same year, also, the American Insurance Company was formed in Freeport, and he 
was closely connected with its organization ; was appointed to its Presidency in 1867, 
and officiated in that capacity until 1870, when the company removed to Chicago, and 
he became one of its Directors. That company does the most extensive business in farm 
property insurance exclusively, of any similar establishment in the country. When 
Mr. Munn came to Freeport he only had $1.25 in money, and his success in life is 
owing to his own industry and energy ; he is a leading and influential member of the 
Masonic body, and was presiding officer of the Grand Chapter of the State of Illinois 
for 1866 ; in various other societies, also, he occupies high positions. In 1861, he was 
married to Mary L. Ladd, of Haverhill, N. H. ; they have four children — Ella E. r 
George L., Loyal L., Jr., and Florence Louise. 

J A^IES I. NEFE, attorney and counselor at law, Stephenson street ; is a 
native of Central Pennsylvania, and was born Oct. 5, 1840 ; he grew up to manhood in 
that State, and was educated at Dickinson College ; he came to Tiffin, Ohio, in 1861. 
After the breaking out of the rebellion, enlisted as private in Co. H, 101st Ohio V. I. m T 
he was promoted to 2d Lieutenant and then to 1st Lieutenant, and served as Adjutant 
of the regiment one year ; he was promoted and commissioned Captain of Co. H, and 
served as Judge Advocate on the staff of Gen. Stanley ; he served in the Army of the 
Cumberland from 1862 until the close of the war ; was mustered out at Cleveland in 
July, 1865. He resumed his law studies, and was admitted to the bar at Columbus in 
January, 1867 ; soon after being admitted, in June of the same year, he came to Illi- 
nois and located at Freeport ; he formed a co-partnership with Hon. Thomas J. Turner, 
which continued until Juue, 1869; he then associated with Hon. J. M. Bailey, present 
Judge of the Appellate Court, and this partnership continued until the latter was elected 
to the bench, in 1878 ; since then the firm has been Neff & Stearns ; in 1878, Mr. Neff 
was elected to the State Legislature, and was an active, efficient member of the last Gen- 
eral Assembly. 

FRANK NORTHROP, superintendent of painting and finishing in the 
carriage manufactory of J. W. Henney & Co., Bridge and Adams streets ; is a native of 
Genesee Co., N. Y., and was born Oct. 29, 1847 ; he grew up and learned his trade 
there : after reaching manhood, he came West to Coldwater, Mich., in 1871, where he 
remained until 1877 ; the following year he came to Stephenson Co., and became con- 
nected with the extensive carriage and buggy factory of J. W. Henney & Co., and since 
then has occupied his present position ; he has had a large practical experience in car- 
riage painting, and has few superiors in this department of the business. In June, 1868, 
Mr. Northrop was united in marriage to Miss Libbie Grattan, a na< ive of Exeter, England. 

EDWIN PERKINS, brick manufacturer, Adams street; is a native of 
England, and was born Oct. 2, 1837 ; he came to the United States in 1849, and came 
West to Stephenson Co. the same year ; he grew up to manhood here, and established 
his present business in 1866, and has carried it on for the past fourteen years. In 1860, 
Mr. Perkins was united in marriage to Miss Ellen Round, a native of England ; they 
have ten children, five sons and five daughters — William A., Jennie, Frank, Nellie, 
Harry, Edeline, May, Robert Burton, Celina and Bennie. 



646 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

J3ULA.S PERKINS, contractor and builder; is a native of Derbyshire, En- 
gland, and was born in May, 1830 ; he grew up, and served apprenticeship to the brick- 
mason's trade ; he came to the United States in 1849, and came to Stephenson Co. and 
arrived in Freeport April 27 of the same year, and began working at his trade ; he has 
been engaged in building and contracting over thirty years, and is the oldest in the busi- 
ness and has built many of the best buildings here ; his brother William came here in 
1844, and erected the first brick building in Freeport. Mr. Perkins has held the office 
of City Alderman, and also Assistant Supervisor. In 1849, Mr. Perkins was united in 
marriao-e to Miss Mary Wood, a native of England ; they have had five children, only 
one of whom survives — Charles Edwin, born July 13, 1859, and now engaged in busi- 
ness here. 

J. IS. PERKINS, steam and gas fitter and plumber, Bridge street ; is a 
native of New York State, and was born in the town of Franklin, Delaware Co., July 
2, 1835. He grew up to manhood in that State, and when the war broke out he enlisted 
in the 21st N. Y. V. I.; was transferred to the 1st N. Y. Mounted Rifles; he remained 
in the service until June, 1865. He came to Stephenson Co. the same year, and located 
in Freeport ; entered the hardware house of Burchard Bros., where he remained four 
years, and, in 1869, established his present business, and has built up a good trade ; he 
makes a specialty of heating houses by steam. He is a member of Excelsior Lodge, 97, 
A. F. & A. M., and of Freeport Chapter, No. 23, and Freeport Commandery, No. 7 ; 
also is a member of J. H. Addams Lodge, A. 0. U. W. Mr. Perkins was united in 
marriage to Miss C. L. Butler, of Otsego Co., N. Y., Oct. 20, 1859; they have one 
daughter — Lillie A. 

Jf. J. PIERSOli, residence Galena avenue; is a native of Hunterdon Co., 
N. J., and was born Aug. 8, 1819 ; he grew up to manhood in Pennsylvania, and 
learned the trade of blacksmith ; he came to Illinois and located in Stephenson Co., in 
May, 1851, and began working at his trade. When the war broke out, he enlisted as 
private, in 1862, in the 93d I. V. I. ; he was elected 2d Lieutenant of Co. G; he was 
promoted to Captain of Co. G, and commanded the company in the battles of Champion 
Hills, Jackson, Port Gibson and Raymond ; was wounded at Champion Hills ; he had 
two sons in the army; he was honorably discharged from the service Jan. 4, 1864, on 
account of wounds received ; he still carries rebel bullets in his body. After his return, 
he was elected Sheriff of the county, served two years, then was appointed Deputy Sheriff, 
and served six years, when he was again elected Sheriff, and held that office four years ; 
he has also held school offices. Capt. Piersol was united in marriage, Oct. 17, 1841, to 
Miss Elizabeth A. Lattig, a native of Pennsylvania ; they have seven children — George 
L., enlisted and served in the 11th and the 93d I. V. I. ; Evans P., enlisted and served 
in the 72d I. V. I. ; Augustus R., Lavinia, Emma, Frank R. and Cora E. 

DR. NATHAN FAY PRENTICE (deceased), physician; was born 
in Cayuga Co., N. Y., Oct. 11, 1825 ; he received his early education at Owa?ka and 
Moravia, in that State; in 1846, he attended the Medical Academy at Castleton, Vt., 
and also attended medical lectures in New York; in 1847, he commenced the practice 
of medicine in Rochester; in 1848, he came West, and located in Rockton, Winnebago 
Co. Dr. Prentice was united in marriage Nov. 20, 1851. to Miss Miranda Hyatt, a 
native of Canada ; the following year they came to Freeport, and engaged in the prac- 
tice of his profession. Dr. Prentice was prominently identified with the Masonic fra- 
ternity, and was a member of the 33d Degree ; he was Commander of Freeport 
Commandery, No. 7, for five years, and held the office of Prelate in said Commandery for 
four years ; he was Grand Commander of the Grand Commandery of the State of Illi- 
nois in 1866. Dr. Prentice successfully practiced his profession here until his death, 
which occurred April 19, 1873; he left two children — daughter Lizzie (now Mrs. 
F. A Read, Jr., of this city), and a son, Charles Sumner Read, living with his 
mother. 

GEORGE PURINTON, lawyer and Judge, son of Robert and Betsy Hall 
Purinton, was born in Cumberland Co. Me., Nov. 30, 1809; he was raised on the 
homestead farm till 16 years old, during which period he attended the winter school from 



FREEPORT. 647 

six weeks to two months yearly ; at the age of 16, he was sent by his father to a private 
academy for six weeks, after which he worked his way along, supporting himself by 
teaching school, till he entered Bowdoin College, Brunswick, Me., in 1831, and gradu- 
ated in 1835 ; in 1836, he entered as law student in the office of John Neal, lawyer, 
novelist and poet, in the city of Portland; in the fall of 1837, he emigrated to Balti- 
more. Md., where he was engaged as Professor in Baltimore College for a few months. 
Listening to the glowing accounts of the Western prairies, the emigration fever seized 
him ; Congress was in session, Col. Robinson was then United States Senator for the State 
of Illinois; the Colonel furnished him with letters of introduction to Judge Wilson and 
others ; Judge Wilson was Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Illinois, and with him 
he continued his law studies in 1838 ; that year he was admitted to practice law in all 
the courts of the State, and he opened a law office at Freeport, in 1840 ; he was elected 
Secretary of the Council of Revision, composed of the Governor and Judges of the 
Supreme Court, for the approval of the laws of the session of 1842 and 1843 ; in 1848, 
he was elected, for four years, Judge of the County Court of Stephenson Co., having 
probate jurisdiction, and was Presiding Judge of the County Commissioners' Court; 
after the expiration of his term of office, he retired to private life, yet has often been 
elected to the office of Justice of the Peace, which office he now holds. 

F. A. READ, Jr., of the firm of Seeley & Read, dealers in dry goods and 
notions, Opera House Block, Stephenson street; is a son of Rev. F. A. Read, and is a 
native of Winnebago Co., 111., and was born in the city of Rockford, Aug. 27, 1852; 
he grew up and attended school there until 14 years of age, and came to Freeport with 
his parents in 1866 ; after attending school here he entered the store of William Walton, 
where he received his business education, and remained there six years ; in 1877, he 
associated with his present partner, and engaged in the dry goods trade. Mr. Read was 
united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth F. Prentice, daughter of the late Dr. N. F. Pren- 
tice, an old and honored citizen of Freeport, April 22, 1879 ; they have one daughter — 
Helen. 

JOSEPH H. REI XKKE, manufacturer and dealer in harness, saddles, 
trunks and valises, Galena street, third door west of Chicago street; is a native of Ger- 
many, and was born in July 15, 1845 ; his mother, with four children, came to Stephen- 
son Co. in 1854; he grew up and learned his trade here; in 1867, he engaged in busi- 
ness, the firm being Moulter, Reineke & Co., afterward J. A. Reineke & Co. ; in 1870, 
the firm became Reineke & Otto ; they continued together for ten years, and Mr. 
Reineke succeeded to the business of the firm ; he occupies a large store, 20x90 feet, 
one of the most attractive places of business in the city ; he has a good stock, and by 
close attention to business and fair dealing has built up a large trade. During the war 
he enlisted in the 46th I. V. I., Co. C, and served until the end of the war. Mr. 
Reineke was united in marriage to Miss Augusta Shueneman, a native of Germany, 
Nov. 25, 1875 ; they have two children — Leonora and Sylvester A. ; they have lost one 
son — Sylvester Henry. Mr. Reineke's mother is still living here in the city. 

BEN JAMIN RHODES, dealer in fresh and salted meats, No. 149 Stephen- 
son street; is a native of York Co., England, and was born May 25, 1821 ; he grew 
up and learned the trade of soap and candle maker ; he came to the United States in 
1843, and came to Stephenson Co. in November, 1850 ; he engaged in the butchering 
business in 1852, and continued two years, and then engaged in the manufacture of 
soap and candles until 1861, when he again engaged in butchering, and has carried on 
the business since then. In 1849, he was united in marriage to Miss Mary Ann Gill, 
from New York ; they have four children — Emma L.. now Mrs. Johnson, living in 
Buffalo, N. Y. ; Isabel H., Olive C. and Walter H. Mr. Rhodes has held the office of 
Town Clerk and City Collector. 

A. V. RICHARDS, born May 1, 1841, in Morgan Co., 111., near Jackson- 
ville; his mother, Eleanor Swinnerton, was born in the same county and State, in 1818; 
his father, Truman P. Richards, was a native of Broome Co., N. Y., and was born in 
1816 ; his parents lived in Illinois until 1847, when they removed to Hazel Green, 
Grant Co., Wis., drawn thither by lead-mine excitement, and lived there till the break - 
iag-out of the rebellion ; his father was a mechanic. A. V. attended the public schools 

AA 



648 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES : 

until 15 years old, then entered a "collegiate academy," and obtained fair education in 
common English branches; paid his own tuition, while attending this institution, by per- 
forming various duties and offiees about the building, by teaching summer schools in 
the country, and working for farmers in harvest time, during vacations. In May, 1861, 
left home to enlist at Boscobel, that being the nearest point in the county where a mil- 
itary company was being organized, and to get there, walked from Platteville to Bosco- 
bel, a distance of forty miles, in one day ; did not succeed in getting into the three- 
months service, but was sworn into the U. S. service Sept. 10, 1861, in Co. H, 7th W. 
V. I., one of the regiments which composed, in later days, the famous Iron Brigade of 
the Army of the Potomac ; in the latter part of December, 1861, while the regiment 
was encamped at Arlington Heights, was detailed, by peremptory order of the War De- 
partment, to report to Col. A. J. Meyer, at Signal Camp of Instruction, Georgetown, D. 
C. ; Col. Meyer was the inventor of the signal code, and Congress had authorized a detail 
of men and officers in order to test the value of the signal service, which was a new 
departure in the American army; the Signal Corps soon became very popular with army 
commanders, and further details were made and the corps extended to every department 
of the army and to the gunboats, the new signal code proving far more useful than the 
old arbitrary naval code ; the duties of signal-men and officers, while very rigorous — as 
they were on duty night and day, always in small detachments and generally in exposed 
positions (often outside the picket lines), affording, with their parti colored signal flags, 
excellent targets for rebel sharp-shooters and batteries — were also very interesting and 
enticing, as their duties involved more of a knowledge of the operations of both armies 
than was enjoyed by any other branch of the service ; but signal-men served for the 
first years of the war " without hope of fee or reward " beyond their monthly stipend, 
promotions being out of the question, as the corps was only nominally a branch of the 
service until Congress, by a law approved March 3, 1863, made it an arm of the service 
on the same basis as the regular army, the men and non-commissioned officers to rank 
as engineers, and the officers as members of the General Staff, all to be mounted ; soon 
after this law went into effect, Mr. R. was promoted to Quartermaster Sergeant, and 
served in that capacity until March, 1864, when he was ordered before an examining 
board of regular army officers, convened by order of the War Department, to be exam- 
ined for a commission ; a large number of civilians and officers of volunteer organiza- 
tions were permitted to compete in these examinations for appointment to the few posi- 
tions to be filled ; but three enlisted men of the Signal Corps were recommended for 
commissions by this board, together with some nineteen civilians, most of whom were 
well re-enforced by Congressional or other political influence ; Mr. R. was one of the 
fortunate three who passed the ordeal with an average standing high enough to entitle 
him to promotion, though destitute of the "political influence," and on the day succeed- 
ing his examination was relieved from duty as Quartermaster Sergeant and assigned to 
duty as an acting officer ; he served in this capacity, performing the duties of signal offi- 
cer in the field, for 'more than a year; the civilian appointees, being ignorant of the 
first duties of a soldier, spending most of the same year in camps of instruction, learning 
to be soldiers and becoming proficient in the intricacies of the signal code ; in the spring 
of 1865, the tardy commission finally came, with rank as 2d Lieutenant, to date 
from Feb. 14, 1865 ; he accompanied McClellan to Fortress Monroe and thence up the 
Peninsula in 1862, participating in all the hardships of that terrible campaign, from the 
evacuation of Yorktown to the final evacuation of the Peninsula, and taking a part in 
the battle of Williamsburg and also in the bloody seven-days fighting before Richmond, 
at Mechanicsville, Gaines' Mill, Bottoms Bridge, Savage Station, White Oak Swamp, 
Malvern Hill and Harrison's Landing, and, later, was in the battles of South Mountain 
and Antietam and numerous cavalry skirmishes and forays in the Boonesboro Valley 
about the time of the battle of Gettysburg. After the grand review at Washington, in 
May, 1865, the war with the South being ended, was ordered to Ft. Leavenworth, Kan., 
and thence to Ft. Laramie as signal officer on the staff of Gen. P. E. Connor ; ac- 
companied Gen. Connor on his Powder River expedition against the Sioux, Cheyenne 
and Arrapahoe Indians ; had several engagements with the hostiles, the most important 
of which was the battle of Tongue River, Aug. 30, 1865, in which Gen. Connor, with 



FREEPORT. 649 

about 100 troops, attacked and destroyed an Arrapahoe village of 100 lodges, killing 
forty warriors and capturing some 700 head of horses and mules, many of which had 
been run off from the military posts ; in this engagement he was struck in the jugular 
vein by a spent ball, but not wounded ; mustered out of the U. S. service at Ft. Leav- 
enworth, Dec. 9, 1865 ; after the war was over, was offered, by member of Congress, a 
brevet commission, but declined the honor ; settled in Galena, 111., where his parents had 
removed during the war. In February, 1867, married to Miss Flora L. Miner, of 
Galena ; resided in Galena and engaged in insurance and real-estate business continu- 
ously (with exception of about one year that he lived at Warren, from 1871 to 1872,) 
until 1873 ; in 1873-74 was employed by the Department of the Interior to survey and 
establish the southern and western boundaries of Wyoming Territory, a work of no small 
magnitude and requiring no small amount of energy and intrepidity, as the lines ran 
through the roughest mountains and across trackless deserts, inhabited only by wild ani- 
mals and wilder Indians. Concerning this work and the manner in which it was executed, 
the Commissioner of the General Land Office says as follows : 

Under the appropriation made by act of Congress, approved March 8, 1873, a contract 
was made with Alonzo V. Richards, astronomer and surveyor, for the survey of this boundary 
co-incident with the thirty- fourth degree of longitude west from Washington Observatory, and 
included between the forty-first and forty-fifth parallels of north latitude. The returns of the 
survey were made to this office during the last fiscal year, resting on fourteen different astro- 
nomical observations on Polaris and twenty-four for latitude at the terminal point of boundary. 
The field work was executed by Astronomer Richards, in the months of June, July, August and 
September, 1874, under his contract bearing date May 29, 1873, involving great labor, through 
a country devoid of settlements, and presenting formidable topographical features. 

The following letter speaks for itself : 

Depariment of the Interior, 
General Land Office, 
A. V. Richards, Esq., Galena, III. Washington, D. C, Aug. 2, 1875. 

Sir: I acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 27th ult., requesting to be furnished with 
a testimonial as to the character of the work which you returned to this office under your ap- 
pointment by the Hon. Secretary of the Interior, as U. S. Astronomer and Surveyor of the south- 
ern and western boundaries of Wyoming Territory, and in pursuance of your contracts with 
this office. In accordance with your desire, 1 have caused an examination to be instituted into 
the records of this office, and, finding that your observations for the determination of the astro- 
nomical boundaries have been correctly made, and boundary monuments planted in conformity 
with the deduced results of said observations and your instructions from my predecessor in office, 
who fully approved your work, I cheerfully bear witness to the excellence of the character and 
quality of the returns, consisting of the field notes, astronomical data and series of plats illus- 
trating the topography along the southern and western boundaries of the Territory of Wyoming, 
involving 645 lineal miles of survey. Considering the distance of the lines determined, marked 
and sketched through the trackless country, and the many obstacles impeding the progress in 
your work, as is evidenced by the field notes of the survey, I cannot withhold the expression of 
my opinion as to your said work, and have to say that it is not surpassed by any survey of the 
kind on file in this office, and that it reflects creditably upon this office and yourself. 

I am, very respectfully, etc., 

S. S. Burdett, Commissioner. 

In September, 1875, Mr. R. removed to Freeport and purchased a controlling 
interest in the Freeport Journal, of which he became, and still is, the editor. 

JT. Li. ROBINSON, manufacturer of carriages, buggies and wagons, Bridge 
street, between Chicago and Van Bureu streets ; is a native of Pennsylvania, and was 
born in the city of Pittsburg, Aug. 9, 1848 ; he came to Illinois in infancy ; he grew 
up and learned his trade in this State; he came to Stephenson Co. in 1873, and was 
engaged in business in Ridott until 1876, when he established his business in Freeport, 
and is building up a large trade. In 1875, he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah 
A. Briggs from Alton, HI. 

HENRY ROHKAR, bakery and restaurant, 57 Stephenson street ; is a 
native of Germany, and was born in the Kingdom of Hanover, June 11, 1829 ; he came 
to the United States in 1850, and came to Stephenson Co. and settled in Freeport, in 
1856, and established his present business on the corner of Mechanic and Stephenson 
streets ; he has occupied his present location for sixteen years, and has carried on the 
business here in the same block for twenty-four years. In October, 1862, he married 



650 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES : 

Caroline Yerks, from Pennsylvania ; they have seven children — Henry, Georgiana, 
Freddie, Caroline, Katie, Eugiene and an infant girl. He has one daughter, Anna, by 
former wife. 

C. H. ROSENSTIEL, farmer and fine stock raiser, Sec. 5; P. 0. Free- 
port ; is a native of Germany, and was born in Saxony, April 18, 1821 ; he grew up 
and received his education there ; then pursued a course of study in building and 
architecture and received his diplomas; he came to the United States and landed in 
Baltimore, Aug. 17, 1840 ; he came to Stephenson Co. and arrived here July 15, 1842 ; 
he settled at Waddams Grove, near Eleroy, bought land there and engaged in building 
two years after coming here. On the 5th of October, 1844, he was united in marriage to 
Miss Anna C. Gilman, daughter of Daniel Gilman, one of the early settlers ; her grand- 
father was one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. In 1842, Mr. 
Rosenstiel, at Eleroy, manufactured the first brick ever made in this county, and they 
were used in building here ; in 1845, he came to Freeport ; in 1848, he built the first 
steam-mill ever erected in this county ; in 1865-66 he built the woolen-mill, and in 
1871-72, he built the large sugar factory for manufacturing beet sugar, and established 
that important enterprise, which is spoken of in another part of this volume. Mr. 
Rosenstiel has been interested and actively identified with various interests and indus- 
tries connected with the city. Mr. Rosenstiel was the first to introduce blooded stock 
in this county ; he owns 600 acres of land, finely located, adjoining the city ; there are 
few grain and stock farms in Northern Illinois as finely improved and under as high a 
state of cultivation ; there are few men who more thoroughly understand the character 
of the soil, its nature and demands, and who are thereby enabled to increase its produc- 
ing power to the fullest extent. Mr. Rosenstiel was a member of the State Agricultural 
Board nineteen years, and was prominent in organizing the Agricultural Society of the 
county ; he has been elected and served as a member of the Board of Supervisors, and 
other offices ; he was prominent in securing the erection, in this county, of one of the 
finest court houses in the State, though he was opposed to and prevented the county 
building it upon credit by the issuing of bonds ; he thought it much better to pay as 
they built ; he was active in aiding and securing the various railroads that have reached 
Freeport ; has been prominent in all educational matters, and has always given liberally 
to all church enterprises, not only in the city but throughout the county. When he 
began life, he had nothing ; by his industry, energy, integrity and liberality, he has 
become one of the most successful men in the county, or in this section of the State. 
Mr. and Mrs. Rosenstiel have five children, three of whom are married — Matilda, now 
Mrs. H. B. Carey, of Beloit ; Oliver E., engaged in business, Freeport ; Louise, now 
Mrs. H. S. Stevenson, of Freeport; Jerome I. Case and Howard, both at home. 

GEORGE RUSTON, buying and shipping butter and eggs, tallow and 
lard, No. 155 Stephenson street ; is a native of England, and was born in the city of 
London Dec. 18, 1840 ; his parents came to the United States in 1842 ; he grew up in 
New York ; after reaching manhood, he came to Illinois, and located in Freeport, in 
1862, and established his present business ; before the close of the day he arrived in Free- 
port, he rented a store and bought over 600 dozen eggs ; Mr. Ruston has successfully 
carried on the business for the past eighteen years, and has a large established trade ; 
by his energy and fair dealing, he has built up the business from $5,000 to $100,000 
per annum, and for a long time has transacted the leading business in his line. 

IiUTHER B. SANBORN, master mechanic of the division of the Mil- 
waukee & St. Paul Railroad ; is a native of Bristol, N. H., and was born March 16, 
1829 ; he grew up and attended school there, then learned the trade of machinist and 
locomotive builder in Lawrence, Mass., and in Boston ; he came West to Milwaukee, in 
1854, and engaged in railroading, and is now one of the oldest employes of this corpo- 
ration ; he was foreman of the railroad shops at Watertown and at Horicon ; he was 
appointed master mechanic of this division of the line in 1871, and since then has held 
that position. In August, 1856, Mr. Sanborn was united in marriage to Miss Sarah E. 
Norris, a native of Kennebec Co., Me. ; they have three children — J. Norris (attend- 
ing college), Alice J. (attending college) and Anna Maud. 



FREEPORT. 651 

I). 1$. SCHULTE, manufacturer of and dealer in fine harness, saddles, etc., 
88 Stephenson street, also a member of the firm of Hettinger, Collmann Brothers & Co., 
bankers, Freeport; is a native of Westphalen, Prussia, and was born Dec. 11, 1822; he 
grew up to manhood and learned his trade there ; he emigrated to America in 1850, and 
came to Detroit, Mich. ; he came to Stephenson Co. and settled in Freeport April 5, 
1854, and engaged in manufacturing and selling harness, and has successfully carried on 
the business over twenty-six years — a longer time than any one in this line of business 
in Freeport or in Stephenson Co.; Mr. Schulte is a member of the banking firm of Het- 
tinger, Collman Brothers & Co. He has held the offices of City Treasurer and Assistant 
Supervisor ; he holds the office of School Treasurer, and is a Director in the German 
Insurance Company. Mr. Schulte married Miss Mary Hienz, a native of the Rhine 
Province, Prussia, May 31, 1853; they have five children — Herman, Emma, Otto, 
Mathilde and Albert. When Mr. Schulte came to this country, he had very little, and 
he owes his success to his own efforts. He belongs to Freeport Lodge, No. 239, I. O. 
0. F., and to the Germania Society. 

JOHN SCHMICH, of the firm of Schmich & Voigt, dealers in groceries and 
provisions, Galena avenue, between Galena and Stephenson streets ; is a native of Erie 
Co., N. Y., and was born in February, 1843 ; his parents came to Stephenson Co. and 
located in Freeport in 1851 ; he grew up and attended school here ; he associated with 
Mr. Voigt and established their present business in July, 1876 ; they are building up a 
good trade. Mr. Schmich was united in marriage, May 4, 1869, to Miss Mary Theresa 
Deguinther, a native of Germany ; they have five children — Josephina T., John F., 
Mary M., Edmond Hugo and Oscar L. ; they have lost one daughter — Rosa A. 

E. SEITZ, of the firm of Seitz & McGrath, publishers of the Freeport Daily 
Herald; is a native of Illinois, and was born in Dupage Co. May 21, 1855 ; his parents 
came here the following year; he grew up and attended school here, and learned the 
printing business in the office of the Anzeiger ; he has been connected with the Herald 
since it was established, in April, 1877. 

CHARLES SEYFARTH, of the firm of Baier & Seyfarth, corner of 
Adams and Jackson streets, proprietors of the Freeport Brewery ; is a native of Germany, 
and was born in Saxony, July 24, 1829; he grew up and learned the blacksmith's trade ; 
he came to the United States in 1849, and came to Stephenson Co. in 1852 ; settled in 
Freeport and engaged in blacksmithing ; he carried on that business until 1869 ; then 
Mr. Baier engaged in the brewing business ; they have built up a large business. In 
December, 1856, Mr. Seyfarth married Miss Elizabeth Hermann, from Silver Creek, in 
this county ; they have three children — Mary, Louis and Charles. Mr. Seyfarth has 
held the office of School Director, and is a member of Freeport Lodge, I. 0. 0. F. 

J. A. SHEETZ, insurance agent, Stephenson street; is a native of Lycom- 
ing Co., Penn., and was born Jan. 6, 1836; his parents came to Stephenson Co. in 
1839, and were among the earliest settlers; he grew up and attended school here. After 
the war broke out, he enlisted in the 8th I. V. I., and was commissioned 2d Lieutenant 
of Co. F ; he was promoted for gallantry at the battles of Fort Donelson and Shiloh; 
he was brevetted Brigadier General for gallantry at Mobile ; after the close of the war, 
he entered the regular army, and served in the 30th and in the 4th U. S. I. until De- 
cemeber, 1875. Col. Sheetz was united in marriage, July 3, 1879, to Miss Jennie 
Massenberg, of this city. One of the Freeport newspapers, speaking of the sudden 
death of his father, Jared Sheetz, says : " On last Sabbath, the 11th inst., just as the 
bells had broken the stillness of the morning, calling the people to worship in the vari- 
ous churches, our city was thrilled by the announcement that an old and esteemed cit- 
izen — Jared Sheetz — had been suddenly called to cross the dark valley, and had gone 
from the very act of devotion in the earthly sanctuary, to join the general assembly 
and church of the first-born in heaven. His demise, startling and unexpected as it was 
to us all, was a terrible blow to his loving family and friends, who had not dreamed 
that the somber angel of death was brooding over their peaceful home on that beautiful 
Sabbath morning. Only a few minutes before he had set out from his residence, on 
Clay street, in his usual health, to attend morning service, and, on going, remarked to 
his family that he thought he would go to the Lutheran, known as the Stone Church, and 



652 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

■which is located on the South Side, a distance of about three-quarters of a mile from his 
home, a longer walk than he was accustomed to take. He had but just been seated in 
the church, and had taken up his hymn-book to join in the worship already commenced, 
when he was observed to swoon in his seat, his head dropped to his bosom, his book 
fell from his hand, he sank down and was found quite insensible. He was immediately 
carried out and every effort made to restore him to consciousness, but in vain. Dr. D. 
T. Buckley, his family physician, was immediately summoned, but before he reached the 
scene, life was extinct. He died of apoplexy. Mr. Sheetz was born in Berks Co., 
Penn., on the 6th day of January, A. D. 1805, and hence, at the time of his death, was 
in his 73d year. He was educated for the pulpit, and at an early age entered the min- 
istry of the Lutheran Church, and labored successfully and with great acceptance in 
that office in his native State, until the year 1839, when he removed to this county. 
He spoke fluently both the English and German languages, and on this account found 
additional demand for labor in his calling, "and often went long distances to attend 
funerals among people who could only repay him with grateful thanks. Coming here 
with the very earliest settlers, and by his talent and acquirements, it was but natural 
that he at once took a prominent and influential rank among the leading citizens of the 
county, and which, by strict integrity and kind helpfulness to others less favored, he 
maintained through life. His influence was uniformly on the side of the best moral and 
material interests of the community in which he lived. Thoogh he never sought office 
for himself, yet he was called upon to fill various important public trusts. He held the 
office of School Commissioner for Stephenson Co. at a time when our public-school 
system was quite new, and by his efficient administration aided greatly to organize and 
establish the public-school system which has since become the pride of all our people. 
Mr. Sheetz was twice married, and leaves a widow surviving. He reared a large family 
of children, and so kind and generous was he in his care for them in all their best inter- 
ests, that they may well feel they have lost one who was to them a father in the true 
sense of that relation." 

JAMES M. SMITH, of the firm of McMillan & Smith, dealers in lumber, 
shingles, sash, doors and blinds, 32 Stephenson street ; is a native of Union Co., Penn., 
and was born Dec. 4, 1819 ; he grew up to manhood there, and came West to Illinois 
in 1844 and settled in Stephenson Co. ; he entered land from Government and began 
making a farm. A few years after coming here, in the fall of 1850, he married Miss 
Mary A. Miller, a native of Pennsylvania ; in the fall of the same year he engaged in mer- 
cantile business at Buena Vista; he continued in trade there fifteen years ; in 1872 he 
returned to Freeport, and in February, 1879, he associated with Mr. McMillan and engaged 
in the lumber business, and they have an extensive trade. Mr. Smith was the first Secre- 
tary of the Buckeye Mutual Fire Insurance Company ; he has held the office of Super- 
visor, Collector and Commissioner of Highways, and was Postmaster at Buena Vista for 
many years. Mr. and Mrs. Smith have three children — Charles A., Mary and Jennie. 

SYDNEY SMITH, of the firm of Smith & Porter, grain and stock dealers ; 
is a native of the State of New York, and was born in the city of Buffalo Feb. 21, 1837 ; 
he grew up and attended school there ; he came West and located in Stephenson Co. 
in 1855, and entered the grain warehouse as clerk, and Mr. Smith has been connected 
with the grain trade since then, a period of a quarter of a century ; the firm of Smith 
& Porter are the oldest dealers in grain on this line of the road ; they buy and ship 
from Ridott, Pecatonica, Winnebago and Baileyville ; they have an extensive shipping 
trade. In 1860 Mr. Smith was united in marriage to Miss Sarah M. Davis, of Brook- 
lyn, N. Y. ; she died in 1871, leaving three children — John S., Fannie and Lulu ; his 
present wife was Theoda Knapp, from Cayuga Co., N. Y. ; they have two children — 
Georgie and Theoda. 

MRS. CHRISTINE SNOW, formerly Miss Christine Hilderbrand, is a 
native of Germany, and was born May 4, 1826 ; she came to the United States in 1847, 
and came the same year to Stephenson Co. The following year, in October, 1848, she 
was united in marriage to Mortimer Snow, a native of Hamilton Co., N. Y. ; they 
moved on a farm in Silver Creek Township and engaged in farming. When the war 
broke out he enlisted in 1861 in the 46th I. V. I. ; he was wounded in the battle of 



FREEPORT. 653 

Shiloh, and was afterward discharged on account of wounds received in that battle. He 
subsequently died in 1870, leaving five children — Ella, Carrie, Frank, Hattie and Fred. 
There are few persons who more fully understood the hardships of early settlers than 
Mrs. Snow ; when they began farming, she lived in a small cabin without any floor, or 
doors, or windows, except blankets ; having enjoyed the advantages of a good education, 
she was determined that her children should not suffer for want of similar advantages ; 
they left the farm and came to the city. Ella, now Mrs. John Hea, and Carrie were 
both graduates of the high school in 1878. Mrs. Snow is a lady of energy and good 
business management ; she still owns the farm in Silver Creek Township, and also owns 
city property. 

CHARLES P. SNOW, gardener and grower of small fruits; is a native 
of Madison Co., N. Y., and was born July 22, 1829 ; his parents came West to Illinois, 
and arrived in Stephenson Co. in September, 1837, and settled in Silver Creek Town- 
ship ; after reaching manhood, he lived in Iowa for some years. After the war broke 
out he enlisted in the 38th .Regiment I. V. I., Co. C; he was in the siege of Vicks- 
burg, and at Yazoo City. Black River and Banks' expedition, and at other places ; he 
was slightly wounded before Vicksburg ; he served over three years. Since the war he 
has lived in Freeport, and engaged in fruit-growing. In April, 1851, Mr. Snow was 
uuited in marriage to Miss Sarah Brown, from New York : they have nine children — 
Luella, John, Oscar, Arthur, Philo, Minnie, Katie, Roxina and Melvina. 

W. H. SNOOKS, of the firm of Galloway & Snooks, proprietor of the Free- 
port Soda-water Manufactory, corner Jackson and Walnut streets ; is a native of Bed- 
ford Co., Penn., and was born Nov. 20, 1838 ; when seven years of age he came to 
Michigan, and grew up to manhood there; he came to Stephenson Co. in 186-1, and 
located in Freeport; he associated with his present partner in 1873 and engaged in 
their present business, and they have established a good trade. In 1859 Mr. Snooks 
was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Snyder, a native of Ohio. 

J. H. SNYDER, proprietor of steam planing-mill and pump-factory, corner 
Adams and Bridge streets ; is a native of Lewisburg, Penn., and was born July 13, 
1836 ; he grew up to manhood there ; he came West to Stephenson Co. in 1853, and 
remained in Freeport one year, and then returned East; in April, 1857, he came to 
Freeport and located permanently ; the following year he entered the dry goods store 
of William Walton, where he remained three years ; in 1862, he established his present 
business, and has successfully carried it on for the past eighteen years, and has built up 
a large trade. He has held the office of City Alderman. In October, 1859, Mr. Sny- 
der was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth E. Chapman, a native of Ohio ; they 
have six children — Cora A., W. Gr., Hattie J., Eugene I., Carrie and Laura Belle. 

PROF. C. C. SNYDER, Superintendent of Schools of the city of Free- 
port ; is a native of Clinton Co., Penn., and was born Feb. 22, 1842 ; he came West in 
boyhood; he attended the common schools and completed his education at the North- 
western University, at Evanston, 111., and afterward engaged in teaching in Belvidere, 
in this State, and in Lyons. Iowa ; he came to Freeport in 1872, and accepted the 
position of Superintendent of Schools of the city, and under his able management the 
schools of the city have been raised to a high standard. Prof. Snyder was united in 
marriage, Jan. 1, 1868, to Miss A. Vernette Forbes, daughter of J. S. Forbes, one of 
the earliest settlers of Stephenson Co. ; Prof, and Mrs. Snyder have four children — 
Waldo S., Maud, Karl F. and Vernette. 

DR. K. T. STABECK, editor of the Freeport Budget; is a native of 
Stephenson Co., and was born Feb. 20, 1853 ; he grew up and received his education in 
this State ; after completing his literary course he began reading medicine ; he pursued 
his medical studies in Philadelphia two years and in Chicago for two years, and gradu- 
ated at Rush Medical College in 1873. After graduating he engaged in the practice of 
medicine in this county. In 1875, he went to Europe, and took a special course in 
medicine at the Government State University at Christiania, the capital of Norway ; 
upon his return he resumed the practice of his profession. In 1873, Dr. Stabeck estab- 
lished the Davis Budget, and conducted that paper until 1876, when he came to Free- 
port. In March, 1877, he bought the Illinois Monitor, and changed its name and 



654 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

established the Freeport Budget, and has successfully conducted the paper since then, 
and, through his energy, it has the largest circulation of any paper in the county. 

J. H. STAVER, of the firm of Staver & Snyder, dealers in boots and shoes, 
Stephenson street; is a native of Clinton Co., Penn., and was born March 23, 1832; 
he grew up to manhood in that State ; he came West and located in Freeport in 1855, 
and established his present business in 1861, and has successfully carried it on for the 
past nineteen years. In 1861, Mr. Staver was united in marriage to Miss Amelia 
Jewell, daughter of Hollis Jewell, one of the oldest and most honored residents of Free- 
port ; Mr. and Mrs.'Staver have six children — Charles. Mary, Nellie, Anna, Willie and 
Bertha. 

J. H. STEARNS, attorney at law, of the firm of Neff & Stearns, Stephen- 
son* street ; is a native of New Hampshire, and was born Jan. 9, 1841 ; his parents 
came West to Wisconsin during his early boyhood ; he attended school there, and entered 
Harvard College, and graduated in 1862; he came to Freeport in 1871 ; studied law 
with Judge Bailey and Hon. J. I. Neff", and was admitted to the bar in May, 1878, 
and the following September he became a partner of Mr. Neff, Judge Bailey having 
been elected to the bench. Mr. Stearns holds the office of City Attorney. In May, 
1869, he was united in marriage to Miss Ruth Chapin, of the city of Dubuque. 

OWEN E. STEARNS, homoeopathic physician ; was born in the town of 
Phelps, Ontario Co., N. Y., Aug. 20, 1827, his parents being Joel and Nancy (Edmon- 
ston) Stearns ; he was educated at the Phelps High School, and, upon leaving this insti- 
tution, commenced the study of medicine, for the practice of which he developed early 
an inclination ; he entered the Homoeopathic Medical College of Cleveland, Ohio, pur- 
sued its full course, and graduated with a fine record in 1850. In the spring of the 
following year he removed to Freeport, 111., where he began his practice, and soon 
acquired a substantial reputation for skill and efficiency, and secured a very large and 
lucrative patronage. He was subsequently elected Vice President of the first Homoeo- 
pathic Medical Society of Northern Illinois, being then quite young in the profession. 
He has at all times a deep interest in movements for promoting and perfecting the 
existing systems of popular education, and was President of the Buard of Education of 
Freeport, having been a member of this body six years. In a very great measure to his 
efforts is due the high standard attained by the schools of that city. Both professionally 
and socially he stands in high estimation, and ever since his residence in Freeport has 
been regarded as one of its leading citizens. He is one of the senior practitioners of 
that place, and the success of his labors has, to a very large extent, popularized the 
system of homoeopathy. 

H. S. STEVENSON, dealer in groceries and provisions, No. 93 Stephenson 
street; is a native of Morgan Co., 111., and was born July 1, 1846; he grew up to 
manhood, and received his education in this State. During the war, he enlisted and 
served in the 146th I. V. I. He came to Freeport in 1872, and established his present 
business in 1875 ; he has two stores, one on Galena street and one on Stephenson street ; 
has built up a large trade. In 1871, Mr. Stevenson was united in marriage to Miss 
Louise Rosenstiel, daughter of C. H. Kosenstiel ; they have three children — William, 
Edward and Clare. 

W. A. STEVENS, dealer in dry goods and notions, No. 102 Stephenson 
street; is a native of Castine, Hancock Co., Me.; he grew up and attended school 
there ; after reaching manhood he went to Boston, and remained there about ten years ; 
he came West to Stephenson Co., and located in Freeport in 1862, and engaged in the 
dry goods trade, and has continued in the business for the past eighteen years, and has 
built up a large trade. Tn 1859, Mr. Stevens was united in marriage to Miss Mary W. 
Wells, a native of Maine ; they have two children— one daughter, Mary, and one son, 
William. 

ISAAC STINE, deceased ; was a native of Wurtemberg, Germany, and emi- 
grated to the United States in 1847 ; he came to Stephenson Co. in 1852, and located 
in Freeport, and, with his brother, engaged in the clothing business ; they were the 
pioneers in this branch of trade, and carried on the business here for twenty-seven years, 
until his death, which occurred Sept. 11, 1879. W. A. Stine is a son of the late Isaac Stine, 



FREEPORT. 655 

the pioneer clothing dealer of Freeport, and was born May 18, 1857 ; he grew up, and 
during boyhood he entered his father's store ; in February, 1880, he engaged in his 
present business, the firm being Stine & Kern, and they are building up a good trade. 

LEONARD STOSKOPF, attorney at law, corner Stephenson and Chi- 
cago streets ; is a native of Canada, and was born Oct. 5, 1840 ; his parents came to 
Illinois and located in Stephenson Co. in 1841 ; he grew up and attended school here, 
and studied law with Mr. Mitchell, and was admitted to the bar in 1873 ; after being 
admitted, he engaged in the practice of law, and since then has practiced his profession 
here. He has held the office of Police Magistrate. In 1874, Mr. Stoskopf was united 
in marriage to Miss Susanna Hunt, daughter of Thomas Hunt, Esq., of Ridott Town- 
ship, one of the early settlers of this county ; they have two daughters — Florence and 
Mary. 

LOUIS STOSKOPF, physician and surgeon, corner Stephenson and 
Exchange streets; is a native of Stephenson Co., and was born in the city of Freeport, 
Nov. 14, 1842 ; he grew up and attended school here, then went to Ann Arbor, Mich. ; 
after attending the high school there, he entered the classical department of the Univer- 
sity of Michigan, and remained two years, then entered the same class in Yale College, 
and graduated in the class of 1865 ; while in Yale College, he was a member of the uni- 
versity crew, and rowed in 1864 and 1865 ; after completing his collegiate course, he 
studied medicine, and attended lectures at Rush Medical College, Chicago, and grad- 
uated in the medical department of Columbia College, in 1869 ; after graduating, he 
engaged in the practice of medicine in his native city, and has, since then, practiced his 
profession here ; he has served as Secretary of the Stephenson County Society of Phy- 
sicians and Surgeons, and is now Vice President of the society. Dr. Stoskopf was uni- 
ted in marriage, Oct. 1, 1873, to Miss Caroline H. Brewster, daughter of Daniel S. 
Brewster ; they have two children — one son, William, and one daughter, Alice Louise. 

VALENTINE STOSKOPF, wholesale and retail dealer in flourand feed, 
corner Galena and Exchange streets; was born in Strasbourg, France, April 4, 1817; 
he came to the United States in 1837, and lived in New Jersey a short time, then 
removed to Canada. While living there, in October, 1839, he was united in marriage 
to Miss Catharine Schoup, a native of Strasburg, France ; they came West to Illinois, 
and arrived in Stephenson Co. in July, 1841, and settled in Freeport; he engaged in 
working at his trade of blacksmith ; he and M. Hettinger had a shop located on the Branch, 
on Spring street ; they have done good work, and they often speak of the times when 
they used to work early and late in the little shop on Spring street ; Mr. Stoskopf car- 
ried on the business successfully for many years ; in 1872, he engaged in the milling 
business, and has carried it on since then ; when he came to this country, he had but 
very little ; he has, by his own efforts and good management, become one of the most 
successful and substantial citizens of Freeport ; he has done much to build up and 
improve the city. He has held the office of Assistant Supervisor, and other town 
offices. Mr. and Mrs. Stoskopf have eight children — Leonard, Louis, Michael, John, 
Mary A., Sarah, Emma and Ella. 

D. C STOVER, inventor and manufacturer, corner of Stephenson and Walnut 
streets ; is a native of the State of Pennsylvania, and was born in Grreencastle, Frank- 
lin Co., May 9, 1840 ; he grew up and attended school there ; after reaching manhood, 
he came West t,o Illinois, in 1862, and settled in Carroll Co., where he remained a few 
years, then came to Stephenson Co., and located in Freeport. Mr. Stover has given 
much time and study to invention, and has taken out several valuable patents ; he in- 
vented and has been engaged in manufacturing "cultivators"" Stover's wind-mill," 
and Stover's machine for manufacturing barbs and placing them on the wire for fences, 
the most complete and the principal machine of the kind now in use : the manufact- 
uring interests of Freeport owe more to Mr. Stover than to any other person. Mr. Stover 
was united in marriage to Miss Mary Clare Porter, daughter of the late Dr. Porter, of 
Lanark, Carroll Co., 111.; they have two children — one daughter, May, and one son, 
Porter. 

D. H. SUNDERLAND, Supervisor of Census for the Second Census Dis- 
trict of Illinois, Opera House Block; is a native of Addison Co., Vt., and was born 



656 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

July 26, 1822 ; he grew up and received his education in that State ; after reaching 
manhood he came West to Illinois, and arrived in Stephenson Co., in July 1845 ; he 
engaged in teaching, and afterward entered as clerk in the store of 0. H. Wright. In 
1855, he was elected County Clerk, aod he held that office for ten years; he was elected 
a member of the Board of Supervisors, and was afterward elected Mayor of the city ; he 
was appointed, in March, 1880, Supervisor of the Census of the Second Census District. 
Mr. Sunderland has lived in this county thirty-five years ; he was much interested in 
educational interests, and has been actively identified with the interests of the county. 
He was united in marriage June 4, 1850, to Miss Frances Barrett, a native of Essex 
Co., Vt. She died in April, 1861, leaving two sons — Byron H., in the postal 
service, and David E., studying dentistry in this city. 

GEORGE F. S WARTS, of the firm of S warts & Stockings, wholesale and 
retail dealers in drugs and medicines, paints and oils, 137 Stephenson street; is a native 
of Centre Co., Penn., and was born April 21, 1839 ; he grew up and attended school 
there, and when 16 years of age, came West to Illinois, lived two years in De Kalb Co., 
and in 1857 came to Stephenson Co. ; in 1861, he entered the drug store of Emmert 
V. Burrell and served an apprenticeship of four years, and became thoroughly familiar 
with the business; in 1865, he associated with J. W. Neff and engaged in the drug 
trade; after four years he sold his interest to Mr. Neff"; he established his present 
business, and has, by his energy and close attention to business, built up a large trade ; 
he had nothing when he began life ; he has been successfully engaged in business for 
the past fifteen years. Mr. Swarts was united in marriage, April 18, 1864, to Miss Cor- 
nelia M. Smith, a native of Newport, N. Y. 

CHARLES F. TAGGART, clerk, railway postal service, is a native of 
Northumberland Co., Penn., and was born Dec. 8, 1822 ; after retching manhood he 
came West to Illinois, and arrived in Stephenson Co. in Dec. 1846 ; he entered land 
and engaged in farming. In 1858, he was elected Sheriff" of Stephenson Co. and held 
that office two years. After the war broke out, he raised a company, which became Com- 
pany D, 93d I. V. I., and was elected and commissioned Ciptain without a dissenting 
vote ; he was slightly wounded before Vicksburg ; he participated in a number of bat- 
tles ; their battle-flag bears the record of nineteen battles ; he served until February, 1865. 
Since his return he has held the office of Assessor, and is now in the railway postal serv- 
ice. In October, 1853, Capt. Taggart was united in marriage to Miss Margaret Smith, 
of Northumberland Co., Penn.; they have three children — Frank, engaged in business 
here; Anna B., and William H., practicing dentistry. 

F. S. TAGGART, proprietor of Taggart's machine shop and foundry, cor- 
ner Mechanic and Spring streets ; is a native of Stephenson Co., and was born in Ridott 
Township, Aug. 21, 1848 ; when 10 years of age his parents removed here in the city, 
and he grew up and attended school here, and graduated at the high school ; after grad- 
uating, he engaged in teaching for a short time ; having a taste for machinery, he went to 
Chicago and entered the machine shops of the Chicago & Northwestern R. R.; in Jan- 
uary, 1876, he established his present business; he had very little to begin with, but, 
being a thorough, practical machinist, he, by close attention to every detail of his busi- 
ness, has established a large trade ; he is a natural mechanic ; when only 14 years of age, 
he built a small steam engine, perfect in all of its parts ; he had only poor, imperfect 
tools to work with, yet the engine ran perfectly. He has held the position of Assistant 
Fire Marshal. In November, 1875, Mr. Taggart was united in marriage to Miss 
Minnie Rowell, a native of Stephenson Co.; she was born in Ridott Township. 

W. H. TAGGART, dental surgeon, corner Stephenson and Van Buren 
streets; is a native of Stephenson Co., and was born March 23, 1855 ; he grew up and 
attended school here, and is a graduate of the high school ; after graduating he studied 
his profession in the city of Philadelphia, and, graduating at the Philadelphia Dental 
College in the class of 1878, he returned to his native city, and since then has prac- 
ticed his profession here, and has taken a leading position in his profession. 

HORACE TAR BOX, Western pioneer, operator in real estate ; was born in 
Onondaga Co., N. Y., Dec. 7, 1817 ; his parents were Peter Tarbox and Mary (Woodruff) 
Tarbox ; his education was acquired at the common schools, located in the vicinity of 



FREEPORT. 657 

his home ; in early life he was engaged, for a time, in working on the Erie Canal ; in 
1841, he turned to the West, and, settling in Freeport, 111., established himself there in 
the hotel and livery business, which he prosecuted for several years ; he interested him- 
self at the same time, also, in the lumber trade, and in building operations; in 1850, he 
went to Council Bluffs, Iowa, and to Omaha, Neb., where he found employment in 
opening up farming lands, and in pioneer and settler work generally, while dealing largely, 
always, in stock of every description ; he was the first to carry a plow into Colorado, and 
with it to break the virgin soil, formerly the camping-ground of the Indian or the bed 
of wolf and buffalo; in 1859, he settled in Boulder City, and engaged there in his cus- 
tomary pioneer work, buying land, which he would improve and sell; in 1865 and 1866, 
he returned to Freeport, 111., and speculated largely in land, buying, building and other 
real estate operations; in 1870, he again went West, to Sioux City, Neb., where he 
was similarly occupied; from that locality he traveled to Sidney, Col., and thence to 
Grand Island, Neb., continually engaged in land speculations, and in buying, sell- 
ing and raising stock; his homj and family have, since 1841, b3en in Freeport, but 
from that date down to the present time the greater portion of his life has been passed 
in the further Western section of the country, where he has continued to open up prairie 
land, form farms, build, deal in stock, and to interest himself in pioneer frontier labors 
in general ; he h is spent several winters in Florida, and owns property in Gaines- 
ville, and also has two orange groves near there. When Mr. Tarbox came here he had 
only $500, and, by his energy and good management, has become one of Freeport's 
most successful citizens. In 1841, Mr. Tarbox was united in marriage to Miss Mary 
Van Pelt, a native of Penn Yan, N. Y.; they have three children — two daughters, both 
married Mary, (now Mrs. Moore, living in Sidney, Neb.), Jennie (now Mrs. Bridge 
ford, living in Chicago ), and one son, Frank, at home. 

N. F 1 . TAYL/OR, dealer in surgical instruments, Opera House Block, 
118 Stephenson street; is a native of New Hampshire; he grew up and received 
his education in that State ; he came West to Minnesota in 1855, and engaged in 
the mercantile business; remained in that State nine years, and in 1864 came to Ste- 
phenson Co., and located in Freeport. In 1846, Mr. Taylor was united in marriage to 
Miss Esther W. Colby, a native of New Hampshire ; she received her education there : 
ehe studied medicine, and is a graduate of Hahnemann Medical College, Chicago, and 
has, since graduating in 1872, successfully practiced her profession in this city. They 
have one daughter — Vashti C. 

OSCAR TA YLOR, attorney at law and senior member of the firm of 0. 
Taylor & Son, abstractors and insurance agents, corner of Clay and Exchange streets ; 
is a native of Saratoga Co., N. Y., and was born Feb. 16, 1822 ; when only 16 years 
of age he came West to Joliet, 111. in 1838, and lived one year in Joliet and then 
came to Rockford, and was one of the early settlers of that place ; he was elected Town 
Clerk, and was the first person elected to that office in Rockford ; he remained there 
three years, and came to Freeport in 1842, and was connected with mercantile business 
for five years ; he studied law, and was admitted to the bar in 1850, and engaged in the 
practice of law. Mr. Taylor has a complete set of abstract books for Stephenson Co., 
and also transacts insurance business ; he was elected Justice of the Peace in 1850. 
Mr. Taylor was united in marriage, Aug. 2, 1842, to Miss Malvina M. Snow, a native 
of Madison Co., N. Y.; they have had six children, three of whom are living — Louise 
W., Oscar L. (now in college), and Sallie J. 

JOHN B. TAYLOR, manufacturer and wholesale and retail dealer in 
leather, shoe-findings and saddlery hardware, 41 and 43 Stephenson street ; is a native 
of Madison Co., N. Y. ; he came to Stephenson Co. and settled in Freeport in 1852, 
and began currying leather within the next two years ; he became a member of the 
firm of F. Baker & Co., which was succeeded by the firm of Taylor & Rubel, which con- 
tinued for seven years, and since then Mr. Taylor has conducted the business ; in 1865, 
he built a tannery, and engaged in the tanning business; in 1878, the tannery was 
destroyed by fire; he rebuilt the following year, in a very substantial manner; Mr. Tay- 
lor's large and commodious double store, Nos. 41 and 43 Stephenson street, erected for 
conducting his business, is one of the finest in the State, and he has a large established 



658 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

trade. Mr. Taylor is one of the most public- spirited citizens of Freeport ; he laid out 
and equipped, at his own expense, what is widely known as "Taylor's Driving Park,' 
which is acknowledged to be the most complete in its arrangement of any track in the 
West ; when Mr. Taylor began life he had nothing, and he owes his success to his own 
efforts ; he has done his full share in building up and beautifying the city, contributing 
liberally to all the various enterprises in that direction ; he has no taste for office; though 
he has been repeatedly solicited to accept the nomination for Mayor of the city, he has 
steadily declined. 

S. IT. TAYLOR, proprietor livery, sale and boarding stable, corner of Bridge 
and Chicago streets; is a native of Strafford Co., N. H., and was born June 5, 1821 ; 
he grew up there until 17 years of age ; he came West to Illinois, and located in Ste- 
phenson Co. in December, 1855 ; he engaged in the staging and livery business, and 
has carried it on for twenty-five years, a longer time than any one else in the same busi- 
ness. In 1846, Mr. Taylor was united in marriage to Miss Franceno Prescott, a native 
of Bristol, N. H. ; they have two children — Julia M. (now Mrs. S. 0. Clayton, living 
here), Ellen F. (now Mrs. L. J. Philip, living in Polo). 

W. B. THOMAS, foreman of the printing office of the Freeport Journal; 
is a native of York Co., Penn., and was born Feb. 21, 1843 ; his parents came to Ste- 
phenson Co. in 1848; he grew up and attended school here; entered the Journal office 
in the fall of 1861, and learned the printing trade, and, with the exception of one year 
in Pittsburgh, and one year in the office of the County Clerk, he has been connected 
with the Journal office since then. In 1867, Mr. Thomas was united in marriage to 
Miss Mary F. Welch, a native of Delaware, Ohio ; they have one son — Freddie G. 

FRAXK J. TRUNK, brick manufacturer, Galena avenue; is a native of 
Germany, and was born April 1, 1843 ; his parents came to America in 1847, and came 
to Freeport in 1851 ; he grew up to manhood here ; his father established the business; 
Frank has carried on the business since 1868, and has a large trade. He married Miss 
Annie Marks, a native of Jo Daviess Co., June 8, 1869; they have four children — 
John. Matilda, Nellie and Rose. 

E. VAN SLOOTEN, wholesale dealer in leaf tobacco and foreign exchange ; 
residence corner Galena avenue and Galena street ; is a native of Germany, and was 
born in the Kingdom of Hanover Sept. 25, 1828 ; his father was a merchant, and he 
grew up and became educated in that business ; he emigrated to the United States in 
1850, and came the same year to Stephenson Co. ; in 1857 he engaged in mercantile 
business, and for some years transacted a large trade ; his sales have amounted to $150,- 
000 in one year ; in 1873 Mr. Van Slooten, with his family, went to Europe and made 
an extended visit, and since then he has been engaged in his present business. Mr. 
Van Slooten married Miss Jette Kroeger, a native of Hanover, Germany ; they have 
two children — Nattie and Adele. 

AUGUSTUS F. VOIGT, of the firm of Schmich & Voigt, dealers in 
groceries and provisions, Galena avenue, between Stephenson and Galena streets ; is a 
native of Stephenson Co., and was born in the town of Lena, Feb. 1, 1852 ; he grew 
up and received his education here ; he associated with Mr. Schmich, and they estab- 
lished their present business in July, 1876, and they are building up a good trade. 
Mr. Voigt was united in marriage, Nov. 18, 1879, to Miss Mary Seyfarth, daughter of 
Charles Seyfarth, of this city. 

JOHN K. WADDELL, of the firm of Waddell Brothers, manufacturers 
of sash, doors and blinds, corner Liberty and Spring streets; is a native of Stephenson 
Co., and was born March 27, 1846 ; his parents were early settlers; they came here in 
1843 ; his father was a contractor and builder here until 1871, when he went to Ch - 
cago after the great fire, and is engaged in contracting there. John K. grew up to ma - 
hood and learned his trade here ; engaged in building until 1876, when he engaged 
with his brother in their present business, and they are building up a large trade. After 
the breaking-out of the war, he enlisted in Co. A, 46th I. V. I.; he participated in a 
number of severe battles; he served three years. In November, 1869, he was united 
in marriage to Miss Hattie Chapman, a native of Ohio. 



FREEPORT. 659 

W. H. WAGrNER, publisher of the Deutscher Anzeiger ; is a native of 
Germany, and was born in Baden, March 14, 1841 ; he came with his parents to the 
United States, in 1852 ; his father established the Deutscher Anzeiger in 1853. The 
subject of this sketch entered the printing office when only 12 years of age; he has 
been connected with the paper since then, a period of twenty-seven years; in 1863, he 
became a partner with his father, the firm being William Wagner & Co. ; upon the 
death of his father, in November, 1877, he assumed editorial management of the paper, 
and since then has occupied that position; in 1871, Mr. Wagner was elected City Treas- 
urer, and in 1876 and 1877 he held the office of Assistant Supervisor. Mr. Wagner 
was united in marriage, May 14, 1861, to Miss Wilhelmina Seyfarth, of this city; they 
have seven children, all sons. 

WILIilAM WALTOX, dealer in dry goods, carpets, clothing and mer- 
chant tailoring, notions, etc., 104 and 106 Stephenson street; is a native of Birminge 
ham, Eng. ; he grew up to manhood and was educated to his present business ; he cam, 
to the United States in 1855 ; he came to Chicago, where he remained a short time- 
and in the fall of 1858 he came to Stephenson Co. and located in Freeport and engaged 
in the dry goods business at 88 Stephenson street; in 1860 he removed to the store 
now occupied by E. L. Cronkhite ; in 1869 he removed to his present location, where 
he could have more room to meet the demands of his trade ; he occupies two stores 
packed full of goods, and employs forty men ; he carries the largest stock of goods of 
any merchant in Northern Illinois, and has the largest established trade of any dry 
goods house west of Chicago in this State. When Mr. Walton began life he had very 
little ; he owes his success to his own efforts. 

JOHN M. WALZ, manufacturer of barrels and firkins, No. 71 Galena 
street; is a native of Germany, and was born Sept. 10, 1833 ; he came to this country 
in 1853, and came to Stephenson Co. in 1856, and settled in Freeport and began work- 
ing at the cooper's trade ; in 1863, he engaged in business for himself, and has carried it 
on since then; he employs ten men, and has established a good trade. In 1862, he 
married Miss Lena Freidag, from New York State ; they have seven children — Mary, 
Lena, Herman, Willie, Laura, Emma and an infant daughter not named. Mr. Walz 
belongs to the Germania Society. 

E. C WARNER, book-keeper and cashier of the wholesale leather and sad- 
dlery hardware house of J. B. Taylor, 41 and 43 Stephenson street ; is a native of Cook 
Co., 111., and was born in the city of Chicago Feb. 10, 1841 ; he grew up and attended 
school there, then went East and completed his education. After the breaking-out of the 
rebellion, he enlisted in the 89th I. V. I.; after serving in the ranks three months, he was 
ordered on detached service ; he served at the headquarters of Gen. Rosecrans, Gens. 
Thomas, Sherman and Garfield ; after the war, he came to Freeport, and entered the 
employ of Mr. Taylor, and since then has occupied his present position. Mr. Warner 
was united in marriage, May 17, 1866, to Miss Jeannot Bigger, a native of Michigan ; 
they have four children — Edwin. Hubert, Burt and Roy. 

Li. A. WARNER, manufacturer of Warner's patent door-springs, Chicago 
street, north of Jackson street; is a native of Montgomery Co., N. Y.; he was raised in 
Connecticut, and came West to Illinois in 1855, and located in Stephenson Co. ; he 
engaged in contracting and building, and carried on that business about twelve years ; 
he patented the door-springs in August, 1875, and engaged in their manufacture, and has 
built up a good trade. Mr. Warner married Miss Sarah D. Whittlesy, a native of Con- 
necticut ; they have five children — Carrie (now Mrs. Harrison, of Chicago), Andrew 
Clinton (now living in Dixon), Charles (now in Beloit College), G. Wilberforce (in busi- 
ness with his father) and Emma L. 

REV. SANFORD WASHBURN, Pastor of the Embury Methodist 
Episcopal Church ; is a native of the State of New York, and was born in Dutchess Co., 
at Fishkill, on the Hudson, Oct. 24, 1830 ; he grew up to manhood in that State, 
attending school there ; he came West, and entered the Garret Biblical Institute at 
Evanston, where he pursued his theological studies and graduated in the class of 1861 ; 
after completing his studies, his first pastoral charge was at Momence ; he has served 
acceptably and successfully as pastor in this conference at Wilmington, Plattville, Piano, 



660 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Chicago, Plainfield and Morris, and came to Freeport in October, 1879. On the 19th 
of November, 1861, Mr. Washburn was united in marriage to Miss Mary Frances 
Booth, a native of Westfield, Ohio ; they have four children — two daughters (Mina A. 
and Emily C.) and two sons (Frank B. and Arthur S.). 

DAVID WEARY, contractor and builder, Pleasant street; is a native of 
Union Co., Penn. ; and was born on March 1, 1829 ; he grew up to manhood in ihat 
State, and learned the trade of carpenter and joiner in Lycoming Co. ; in 1860, he came 
West to Wisconsin, and in 1866 came to Freeport, and since then, for the past fourteen 
years, has been engaged in building here. In 1855, Mr. Weary was united in marriage 
to Miss Christiana Erwin, a native of Lycoming Co., Penn. ; they have three children — 
Elsie, Jennie and Arthur; they have lost four children — Alvaretta, William, Edgar and 
Eugenia. 

THOMAS WEBSTER, proprietor of the Freeport City Mills, east end 
Bridge street ; is a native of Yorkshire, England, and was born Feb. 4, 1806 ; he grew 
,up to manhood; lived there until 1851, when he came to this country, and during the 
same year came to Freeport ; invested in farming lands; in 1866, he engaged in his 
present business, and has conducted the milling business for the past fourteen years, and 
they have an established trade. In 1841, Mr. Webster was united in marriage to Miss 
Elizabeth Bentley, a native of Yorkshire, England ; they have eleven children, four sons 
and seven daughters. Mr. Webster and his family attend the Episcopal Church, and 
he has held the position of Senior Warden over twenty years. 

DAVID T. WEIiD, photograph artist, 137 Stephenson street; is a native of 
Steuben Co., N. Y., and was born March 22, 1840 ; he grew up to manhood in Win- 
nebago Co., 111., and studied his profession there; after the breaking-out of the rebellion, 
he enlisted and served in Co. C, 16th Iowa V. I.; was wounded in the battle of Corinth ; 
he came to Freeport in 1863, and established his present business, and his gallery is 
the oldest in the city ; he has had a large experience and has superior facilities for 
making fine work. 

JOHN WERTMAN, wagon manufacturer, Van Buren, north of Bridge 
street ; is a native of Mercer Co., Penn., and was born in 1833 ; he grew up to manhood 
in that State, and learned his trade in Berks Co.; he came to Stephenson Co. in 1858, 
located in Freeport and engaged in wagon-making, and since then has continued in the 
business; he owns the place where he carries on his trade. In 1867, he married Sarah 
A. Ault, in this city ; they have two children — Florence and Frances. 

THOMPSON WILCOXON, pioneer settler of Illinois, and capitalist, was 
born in Milledgeville, Ga., Aug. 22, 1800 ; his parents were Thomas Wilcoxon, 
form erly engaged in farming and agricultural pursuits, and Mary (Hardy) Wilcoxon; 
he received a common-school education at Portsmouth, Ohio, to which locality his 
parents had removed while he was in his infancy ; he was brought up upon his father's 
farm, laboring in the summer, and in the winter months attending school; subsequently, 
he was engaged in a partnership connection with three brothers in farming and send- 
ing produce to the market of New Orleans, La.; while thus occupied, they constructed 
their own boats, called " flat-boats " and in person piloted them down the Ohio River ; 
in 1835, he visited the Northwestern district, accompanied by one of his brothers, on a 
prospecting tour, traveling on horseback, and guiding himself, in many cases, by fol- 
lowing the Indian trails, for, in those days, roads were few and poor. In 1837, he 
again came to the Northwest, purposing to settle in a desirable locality, and decided to 
remain at the spot now known as Cedarville, distant about six miles from the present 
city of Freeport ; associated with his brother, he purchased a claim there, took posses- 
sion of the appropriated land and gradually transformed it into a well-cultivated farm ; 
the district was then unsectionized, almost in a primitive state, and very sparsely settled ; 
he continued farming until 1854, when he removed to Freeport, disposing of his land 
in Cedarville about three years afterward ; he has since then resided permanently in the 
former town and engaged in real estate and building operations ; among other enter- 
prises which he has conducted to successful issues is the Freeport Opera House, of 
which he is the builder and owner. Mr. Wilcoxon was united in marriage Dec. 23, 
1830, to Miss Cyinda Mitchell, daughter of Judge Mitchell, of Scioto Co., Ohio ; they 



FREEPORT. 661 

have four children — Mary D., now married, living in Chicago; Thomas D., living here; 
Martha E., now married, living in Richmond, and Mitchell H., engaged here in the 
insurance business. 

JACOB WILLIAMS, grain dealer, east side River, is a native of New 
York, and was born in the city of Buffalo Feb. 28, 1842 ; he grew up to manhood and 
received his education here ; he came West in 1870, and located in Freeport and estab- 
lished his present business, and has a large shipping trade. In 1865, Mr. Williams was 
united in marriage to Miss M. A. J. P. Davy, from Niagara Falls, New York ; they 
have one son, James D. 

ADAM WILSON, retired, Galena avenue ; is a native of New Jersey, and was 
born on Nov. 16, 1813; grew up to manhood, mostly in Pennsylvania; came West to 
Illinois by wagon, and located on Fox River, and was one of the early settlers there ; 
he came to Stephenson Co. in 1843, and settled at Crain's Grove; he entered several 
hundred acres of land, and engaged in farming, which has since been his principal busi- 
ness, and he still owns a farm there. He has held the office of magistrate in this county 
for twelve years, and has also held other town and school offices. In 1835, Mr. Wilson 
was united in marriage to Miss Priscilla Lott, a native of Luzerne Co., Penn. ; they 
have four children — Nancy, Lucy, Stephen and Frances. 

JOHN H. WILSON, yardmaster of the Illinois Central R. R., at Freeport ; 
is a native of Union Co., Penn. ; he came West to Illinois and entered the employ of 
the Illinois Central R. R. in 1857. After the breaking-out of the rebellion, he enlisted 
in the 11th I. V. I., Co. H ; after his return from the service he again resumed his 
connection with the Illinois Central ; in 1867, he was appointed yardmaster, and since 
that time, for the past thirteen years, he has held that position in this city. 

E. IS. WINGER, manufacturer of the Stover Wind Engine and Winger Feed 
Grinder, Stephenson street, corner Adams ; is a native of Pennsylvania, and was born 
in Lancaster Co., on Sept. 24, 1837 ; he grew up in Franklin Co., and received his edu- 
cation in that State ; after reaching manhood he was successfully engaged in the mercan- 
tile business at Greencastle, Franklin Co., for fourteen years; he came to Stephenson 
Co. in March, 1877, and located in Freeport, and engaged in his present business; he 
is building up a large and extensive trade throughout the different States. Mr. Winger 
was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth B. Stover, a native of Greencastle, Penn., in 
April 18, 1861 ; they have four children, all sons. 

GEORGE WOLF, Justice of the Peace and collecting agent, and has 
abstracts of titles to lands in Stephenson Co., Galena avenue, opposite court house; is 
a native of Centre Co., Penn., and was born Dec. 3, 1827 ; he grew up and attended 
school there ; after reaching manhood he came West to Illinois and located in Stephen- 
son Co.; in May, 1849, engaged in teaching during the winter seasons; in 1851, he 
engagid in painting, and carried on that business for ten years; he belonged to a mili- 
tary organization ; on the 4th of July, 1861, the company went to Belvidere to celebrate, 
and Mr. Wolf met with the serious misfortune of losing his arm by a premature dis- 
charge of a cannon. Mr. Wolf has held the office of Justice of the Peace for many 
years, also held office of Assessor and Collector ; he has set of abstract books of titles 
to lands in Stephenson Co. In 1854, Mr. Wolf married Angeline Fleming, from Vir- 
ginia ; she died in January. 1880, leaving six children — Charles C, Kate B., Sadie E., 
Winnie, Agnes and Nellie. 

H. WOODMANSE, manufacturer of Woodmanse's wind engine, wind- 
mill pumps and feed mills, Helena street and Railroad ; is a native of Belmont Co., 
Ohio, and was born Oct. 14, 1836 ; he grew up and attended school there; after reach- 
ing manhood, he came to Illinois ; in 1868, he came to Stephenson Co., and located in 
Freeport, and engaged in dealing in agricultural implements ; he afterward bought the 
property where he is now located and established his present business, and has built up 
a large trade, extending through the Western States. In 1866, Mr. Woodmanse was 
united in marriage to Miss Helen Barnes, a native of Sycamore, DeKalb Co., 111. 

O. H. WRIGHT, deceased ; the subject of this sketch was one of the earliest 
settlers of Stephenson Co.; he was born in Shoreham, Addison Co., Vt., in the year 
1812; he grew up and attended school there, and completed his education in Canada; 



662 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

after reaching manhood, he came West to Illinois, and arrived in Freeport in December, 
1836; he engaged in mercantile business, and, with the exception of Mr. Crocker, who 
opened a store for a short time, Mr. Wright was the first established merchant in Free- 
port. Two years after coming here, on the 15th of January, 1838, Mr. Wright was 
united in marriage to Miss Mary M. Atkinson, a native of Durham, England. Mr. 
Wright held the oflices of Probate Judge and County Recorder ; he was prominently 
interested in getting tbe railroad here, and had the bridge built across the river ; he laid 
out the east part of the town ; he was actively identified with all the interests of the city 
and county ; he was a consistent member of the Presbyterian Church, and was promi- 
nent in the organization of that church in Freeport ; he was noted for his generosity and 
kindness of heart, and was ever ready to aid the needy and the afflicted. His death 
occurred in March, 1851 ; he left two children — one daughter, Mary S., now Mrs. John 
Scott, living in Iowa, and one son, William 0., now engaged in business here in this 
city. 

0. P. WRIGHT, of the firm of J. W. Henney & Co., manufacturers of car- 
riages, buggies and road wagons, corner Bridge and Adams streets ; is a native of Ste- 
phenson Co., 111., and was born April 5, 1855 ; he grew up and attended school, and 
then served apprenticeship in his present business ; he has been a member of the firm 
since 1875. Mr. Wright was united in marriage, May 28, 1879, to Miss Louise Ben- 
nethun, a native of Cedarville, Stephenson Co., 111. 

W. H. Y r ATES, postal clerk, railway mail service ; is a native of Montgom- 
ery Co., N. Y., and was born Dec. 25, 1831 ; he came to Stephenson Co. and located 
in Freeport March 3, 1853; he entered the railway mail service in 1861, on the 
Western Union B. B., from Freeport to Bacine, and has been in the service continu- 
ously for nineteen years, and is the oldest postal clerk now in the service west of Chicago. 
Mr. Yates was united in marriage, May 29, 1854, to- Miss Addie Turner, of Marshall, 
Mich. ; she died June 19, 1876, leaving two children — one son, Balph T., and one 
daughter, Ida. 

1. S. ZARTMAK, proprietor of the Pennsylvania House, corner Stephenson 
and Chicago streets; is a native of Lancaster Co., and was born Sept. 18, 1823; he 
grew up to manhood there, and came West to Iowa, and arrived in Stephenson Co. July 
11, 1853, and began working at the trade of carpenter and joiner; he was engaged in 
building for seven years; in 1863, he opened the Pennsylvania House, and has contin- 
ued in the hotel business for the past seventeen years ; it is the oldest hotel in the city 
under the same name. Mr. Zartman holds the office of City Alderman. He was united 
in marriage, Jan. 3, 1854, to Miss Elizabeth E. Baker, a native of Lancaster Co., 
Penn. ; they have one son — Harvey B. ; they have lost two children — one son and one 
daughter. 



KENT TOWNSHIP. 663 



KENT TOWNSHIP. 

CHARLES BERHENKE, farmer, Sec. 9; P. 0. Lena; born Sept. 18, 
1829, in Lippe Detmold, Germany; December, 1853, he came to Stephenson County; 
he owns 80 acres of land, which he has improved; among other improvements is a 
well-arranged barn, which cost about $750. He married Henrietta Jasper, in 1859 ; 
fihe was born in Germany ; they have eleven children — four sons and seven daughters. 

WILLIAM H. BOOP, farmer, Sec. 36 ; P. 0. Yellow Creek; born April 
13, 1844, in Union County, Pa. ; in 1858, he came with his parents to Kent Township ; 
he owns 90 acres of land. He enlisted, in 1864, in Co. E, 45th I. V. I. ; served to the 
end of the war. Married Maria Mishler, in 1871 ; she was born in Indiana; they have 
two children — George and Cora. 

DANIEL BROWN, farmer, Sec. 29; P. 0. Lena; born Aug. 19, 1829, 
in Ireland; in 1832, he came with his parents to Monroe County, N. Y. ; in 1840, they 
came to Whiteside County, 111.; in 1848, he came to Stephenson County ; in 1850, he 
went to California, followed mining two years and teaming five years ; he then returned 
to Stephenson County, where he has since lived; has been School Director and twelve 
years Commissioner of Highways. Married Bridget Murphy, April 8, 1858 ; she was 
born in Canada ; they have sevea children — Mary A., Sarah, Isabel, Edward, Ellen, 
Daniel and Catharine; lost John, aged 4 years. 

BRYAN DUFFY, farmer, Sec. 28; P. 0. Elroy ; he was born, in 1824, 
in Ireland; in 1846, he came to New Jersey, and, in the fall, came to Stephenson 
County, where he has since lived ; he owns 60 acres of land. Married Ann Harty, 
in 1844; she was born in Ireland; they have seven children — four sons and three 
daughters. 

SAMUEL EISENBISE, farmer, Sec. 22; P. 0. Kent; born Oct. 27, 
1839, in Miami Co., Ohio; in 1849, he came with his parents to Indiana ; in 1859, he 
came to Carroll Co., 111.; in 1877, he came to his present farm; he owns 65 acres of 
land. He married Mary A. Gilbert Sept. 22, 1876; she was born in Pennsylvania; 
they have one child — William. 

M. EISLEY, farmer, Sec. 26; P. 0. Kent; born Dec. 28, 1839, in Germany ; 
in 1856, he came to Stephenson County: he removed to this locality in 1860 ; he owns 
340 acres of land ; has been Township Supervisor and Township Clerk, and has held 
about all the township offices. He married Miss Nancy J. Carter in 1863 ; she was 
born in New York; they have two children — Carrie and Rollin. 

HENRY W. FA RINGER, farmer, Sec. 5; P. 0. Lena; he was born 
Oct. 9, 1829. in York Co., Penn. ; in 1854, he came to Stephenson County; he owns 
163 acres of land. He married Miss Lydia Fry in 1858; she was born in Ohio ; they 
have a family of six sons. 

JACOB GABLE, farmer, Sec. 34; P. 0. Kent; born Sept. 21, 1805, in 
Union Co., Penn. ; when a boy, he was apprenticed to the boot and shoe trade, and 
followed this about twenty years; in 1843, he came to Jefferson Township, and, two 
years later, he came to his present locality; he owns 320 acres of land, part of which 
he entered, and has it well improved. He was elected Justice of the Peace in 1851, and, 
with the exception of two years, has held this office ever since ; he has been School 
Director, Township Supervisor, Highway Commissioner, etc. He married Elizabeth 
Machamer April 10, 1828 ; she was born in Union Co., Penn., May 12, 1808; they 
have had eleven children, nine living — three sons and six daughters. When in Penn- 
sylvania, he served about seven years as Captain of the 6th Company, 43d Pennsylvania 
Militia; his son Jacob enlisted, in 1862, in the 93d I. V. I., and served to the end of 
the war. 

MUS. L. S. GODDARD, wife of Newell Goddard (deceased), Sec. 6 ; 
P. 0. Lena; he was born May 13, 1827, in Franklin Co., Vt. ; in about 1849, he 

BB 



664 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

came to Stephenson County, remained here a few years, then returned to Vermont in.' 
about 1854; he then returned here and remained till the time of his death. He mar- 
ried Miss Lucretia S. Hotchkiss Oct. 20, 1856 ; she was born Dec. 11, 1837, in Frank- 
lin Co , Vt.; they have two children — Clara and Warren. She now owns 125 acres of 
land. 

WILLIAM HEYEB, farmer, Sec. 17 ; P. 0. Lena; born Feb. 23, 1823, 
in Germany ; in 1847 he came to Washington Co., Wis. ; in 1867 he came to Stephen- 
son Co. ; he owns 160 acres of land ; married Justine Sander, in 1852 ; she was born 
July 24, 1829, in Germany ; they have five children — William, Paul, Frank, Henry and 
Johanna. 

JAMES A. HUGHES, farmer, Sec. 11 ; P. 0. Lena; born March 3, 
1841, in Ireland ; in 1851, he came with his parents to Dutchess Co., N. Y. ; in 1853 
he came to Stephenson Co. ; he owns 120 acres of land, which he has improved. He has 
held the office of District School Clerk the past eleven years. Married Mary McGurk, 
in 1864, she was born in Maryland ; they have seven children — four sons and three 
daughters. 

PETER KLECKNER, farmer, Sec. 23 ; P. 0. Kent ; born Sept. 27, 1804, 
in Union Co., Penn. ; in 1850 he came to his present farm ; he owns over 700 acres of 
land ; he has been six years County Superintendent. Married Catharine Wolf, in 1835 ; 
she was born in Union Co. Penn., in 1814 ; died in 1870 ; they have eight children living 
— Elizabeth Ann, Emma, Jane A., Ada, Soloman J., Peter A., John M. and Henry C. 
George W. was killed at the battle of Lookout Mountain, in 1864 ; John M., Henry C. 
and Peter A. also served in the late war. Attended the German Reformed Church ; he 
was a Republican in politics. 

JOHN MADER, farmer, Sec. 22 ; P. 0. Kent ; born Dec. 14, 1830, in 
Union Co., Penn. ; in 1856, he came to Stephenson Co. ; he owns 85 acres of land ; is 
School Director. Married Eliza Bogenreif, May 31, 1857 ; she was born in Union Co., 
Penn.; had seven children, four living — George, Samuel, Charles and Adam. 

JOHN J. MERRICK, farmer, Sec. 8 ; P. 0. Lena ; born Feb. 14, 1823, 
in Tompkins Co., N. Y. ; in 1847 he came to Stephenson Co., where he has since lived ; 
he owns about 310 acres of land, which was entered by himself and brother. He married 
Miss Elizabeth Mcintosh, in 1848 ; she was born in Tompkins Co., N. Y. ; they have 
one daughter — Mary E., now Mrs. Daughenbaugh. 

EMANUEL MISHLER, farmer, .See. 31 ; P. 0. Yellow Creek ; born 
Sept. 13, 1822, in Lancaster Co., Penn. ; in 1844, he came to Summit Co., Ohio ; he 
followed the tailoring trade here about four years, having learned this trade in Pennsyl- 
vania; in 1848, he came to Elkhart Co., Ind. ; in 1850, he removed to Stephenson 
County ; he owns 535 acres of land ; has been Assistant Commissioner of Highways, 
School Trustee and Director. Married Susannah Mishler Sept. 10, 1846 ; she was born 
in Stark Co., Ohio, March 2, 1825 ; they have nine children — Maria, Elizabeth J., 
John F., Phares, Calvin H., James L., Susan S., Levi and Marcus. 

L. W. MOGLE, farmer, Sec. 15 ; P. 0. Kent ; born Sept. 20, 1840, in 
Centre Co., Penn. ; in 1846, he came with his parents to Stephenson Co. ; he owns 
245 acres of land ; he enlisted in 1863 in the 46th I. V. I., Co. B, and served 
two years ; he is School Director, Commissioner of Highways, etc. Married Harriet 
Sansman in 1866 ; she was born in Union Co., Penn ; they had four children, three 
living — George A., Luetta and Burton S. 

O. H. PHILLIPS, farmer, Sec. 36 ; P. 0. Kent; born Feb. 18, 1823, in 
Windham Co., Vt. ; in 1844, he came to Chicago, thence to Elgin, 111. ; in 1845, he came 
to Stephenson County and entered 40 acres of land ; in 1846, he returned to Elgin. In 
1847, he enlisted in the 2d Regiment I. V. I. in the Mexican war, under Capt. Edward 
Harvey ; served thirteen months, for which he received a land-warrant for 160 acres of 
land. They now own 280 acres ; iu 1849, he returned to Stephenson County ; remained 
here till 1867, when he removed to Tipton Co., Tenn. ; there he engaged in the nursery 
business till 1879, when he returned to his present farm. He married Miss C Gable in 



KENT TOWNSHIP. 665 

1851; she was born in Union Co., Penn., in 1831 ; died Jan. 25, 1880; have six 
children — Emma, now Mrs. Anderson ; George P v Laura E., Jacob H., Nettie M. and 
Mary 0. 

GEORGE PIPER, farmer, Sec. 1 ; P. 0. Lena ; born Feb. 9, 1821, in 
Sussex Co., England ; in 1849, he came to Stephenson Co. ; he owns 80 acres of land. 
He married Miss Lois Buss, in 1854 ; she was born in 1838, in Sussex Co., England; 
they have four children — Rhoda, Arthur George, Ernest D. and Perley. 

* FRANK H. REBER, farmer, Sec. 22; P. 0. Kent; born Jan. 11, 1850, 
in Jo Daviess County ; in 1872, he came to this farm of 160 acres, which he rents from 
his father. Married Mary White in 1871 ; she was born in Jo Daviess County ; they 
had four children, one living — Frank M. 

J. W. RUSH, farmer, Sec. 35 ; P. 0. Kent; born March 16, 1839, in Union 
Co., Penn. ; in 1843 he came with his parents to Stephenson Co. ; he owns 80 acres of 
land ; is Township Collector ; has been School Director, etc. Married Elizabeth Tip- 
ton, in 1865 ; she was born in Bedford Co., Penn. ; they have seven children — two 
sons and five daughters. 

DAVID SHEARER, farmer, Sec. 8 ; P. 0. Lena ; born May 2, 1822, in 
Perry Co., Penn. ; at about the age of 20 he commenced to learn the stone and brick 
mason's trade ; followed this about thirteen seasons; he then opened a store; continued 
this about three years ; he then traded his store for a tannery ; ran this about six years ; 
in 1869, he came to Stephenson Co. ; he owns about 90 acres of land. When in Penn- 
sylvania, he held the offices of Justice of the Peace, Assessor, etc. Married Lydia 
Hollenbaugh, in 1847 ; she was born in Perry Co., Penn. ; they had ten children, seven 
living — James, Rebecca Jane, Charles B., George C, Samuel E., Robert C. and Ben- 
jamin F. 

LOUIS WERNICKE, farmer, Sec. 21 ; P. 0. Lena; born Sept. 3, 1834, 
in Germany; in 1854, he came to New York City; in 1856, he came to Stephenson 
Co. ; he owns 107 acres of land. He entered the service in 1864, Co. G., 42d I. V. I. ; 
served to the end of the war. Married Catherine Rudel, in 1860 ; she was born in 
1842, in Germany; have four children — John, Emma, William and Henry. 



666 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES 



WINSLOW TOWNSHIP. 

CAPT. WILLIAM I. BRADY, druggist and Postmaster, Winslow; 
born June 1, 1841, in Pittsburg, Penn. ; in 1865, he came to Winslow ; he was 
appointed Postmaster in 1875. He married Miss Mary Rayhorn, Oct. — , 1877 ; she 
was born in Pennsylvania ; they have one son — Lester B. Republican in politics. 

HENRY CH AWGO, proprietor of American House, Winslow ; born Dec. 
22, 1829, in Sullivan Co., N. Y. ; in 1854, he came to Stephenson Co. ; followed farm- 
ing till 1875, when he removed to Winslow, and took charge of this hotel. Married 
Harriet Vaughn, March, 1849; she was born in New York; they have five children — 
one son and four daughters. Republican in politics. 

LE GRAND II. COX, farmer, Sec. 19; P. 0. Winslow; born Sept. 6, 
1829, in Genesee Co., N. Y.; in September, 1839, he came to Stephenson Co.; he 
served eighteen months in the Mexican war, and received a land-warrant for 160 acres ; 
he now owns 140 acres ; enlisted in August, 1862, in Company A, 92d I. V. I., as 
Sergeant; served two and a half years ; was wounded Sept. 19, 1863, at the battle of 
Chickamauga ; has been School Director, Township Collector and Treasurer. Married 
Eveline Talmadge April 23, 1856 ; she was born in Cuyahoga Co., Ohio, Nov. 10, 
1834; they have six children— Charles T., Hattie A. (now Mrs. F. T. Wire), Nellie 
B., Frank R., Mary E. and Legrand M. 

WILLIAM COX, farmer, Sec. 29 ; P. 0. Winslow; born Jan. 30, 1823, 
in Oneida Co., N. Y.; in 1839 he came to. Stephenson Co.; he owns 140 acres of land, 
which he entered ; has been Assessor, Collector, School Treasurer, Road Commissioner; 
he now is County Superintendent — has served eight years; he enlisted in 1862, in Co. 
A, 92d I. V. I.; served to the end of the war; was wounded at the battle of Che- 
nango, and Aiken, S. C. Married Miss Ermina Phillips January, 1852 ; she was born 
in Ohio; they have four children — William Jr., Edward, Levitt H. and John. Presbyte- 
rian in religion ; Republican in politics. 

MRS. LODUSKEY F. CRANDALL, formerly Miss Kennedy, Sec. 
19 ; P. 0. Winslow ; she was born March 10, 1832, in Lorain Co., Ohio. She was 
married May 10, 1850, to Jonathan Lincoln; he was born May 19, 1827, in New 
York ; in about 1844 he came with his parents to Stephenson Co., and settled on this 
present farm, which has since been divided; he died June 16, 1877. She now owns 
about 94 acres, with the homestead ; they had four children, three living — Emeline (now 
Mrs. Wire), Effie (now Mrs. Wilber), and Nettie May. Her second marriage, to 
Samuel Crandall, occurred Aug. 28, 1878 ; he was born April 16, 1825 ; he has two 
children by a former marriage — Adelia and Caddie. 

DR. I. L. CUTLER, physician and surgeon, Winslow; born Jan. 29, 
1848, in Warren, Lake Co., 111.; in 1865 he commenced the study of medicine with 
Dr. Whipple, of Nebraska ; graduated in 1875. He married Miss Clara Sweely 
March 19, 1880 ; she was born in Lycoming Co., Pa. 

GEORGE C. DE HAVEN, farmer, Sec. 30 ; P. O. Winslow ; born Aug. 
12, 1855, in Nora, Jo Daviess Co.; in 1857 he came with his parents to their present 
farm, consisting of 540 acres ; his father died in 1872, aged 52 years. He married 
Miss Christie Phillips October, 1878 ; she was born in Pennsylvania ; she came to 
Orangeville, 111., when a child, with her parents. 

OSCAR DE HAVEN, farmer, Sec. 24 ; P. O. Winslow; born April 12 
1854, in Stephenson County; his father died in March, 1855, aged 25 years; he and 
his mother own and occupy this farm, consisting of 160 acres, formerly entered by his 
grandfather ; his mother was born in Scioto Co., Ohio, in 1827. 

SILAS GAGE, farmer, Sec. 25; P. 0. Winslow; born Nov. 7, 1813, in 
Susquehanna Co., Penn. ; May 15, 1835, he came to Stephenson County ; he owns 244 
acres ot land, part of which he entered. Married Harriet M. Eells in November, 



WINSLOW TOWNSHIP. 667 

1836 ; she was born in Cattaraugus Co., N. Y. ; she came with her parents to Illinois in 
1834; they had eleven children; six are living — Isaac V., Amon S., Amelia, Ellen, 
Mary and Phebe ; Isaac V. enlisted, in 1861, in Co. G, 46th I. V. I. ; served to the 
end of the war. Republican in politics. 

J. H. GA9IBER, farmer, Sec. 29 ; P. 0. Winslow ; born April 25, 1825, in 
Ontario Co., N. Y. ; when a child he came with his parents to Ashtabula Co., Ohio ; in 
1845, he came to Stephenson County; he owns 118 acres of land ; has been Justice of 
the Peace, Township Supervisor one term, nine years School Director ; has been class- 
leader in the M. E. Church the past fifteen years ; he is also Treasurer and Steward of 
this church. Married Miss Mary Cox in November, 1850 ; she was born in Jefferson 
Co., N. Y. ; when she was 9 years old she came with her parents to Wisconsin ; they 
have three children — Frank E., Ellen A., now Mrs. White, of Syracuse, N. Y., and 
Ida F. Republican in politics. 

D. C. GAYLORD, farmer, Sec. 16 ; P. 0. Winslow ; born Nov. 3, 1823, in 
Chautauqua Co., N. Y. ; in 1839, he came to Stephenson County with his parents; he 
owns 220 acres of land, which he has improved. He enlisted, in 1862, in Co. A, 92 d 
I. V. I.; served thirteen months; was discharged on account of sickness. He has been 
Road Commissioner and Collector. Married Mary Taylor in 1848 ; she was born in 
Bradford Co., Penn., in 1827 ; his father died in 1846, aged 52 years ; his mother died 
in 1872, aged 84 years. Attends the Congregational Church. 

BARNABIJS HINDS, farmer, Sec. 25 ; P. 0. Winslow ; born Oct. 4, 
1823, in Eden, Lamoille Co., Vt. ; in 1845, he came to Manchester, N. H. ; in 1855, 
he returned to Eden, Vt. ; in 1868, he came to Stephenson County; he owns about 
62 acres of land ; he is Justice of the Peace. He married Miss Matilda N. Buck in 
1849 ; she was born in Coos Co., N. H. ; they have had six children — Lelah M., now 
Mrs. Taylor; Adie M„ now Mrs. Fye ; Eva M., Clara E., Andrew G. and Aldace S. 
Republicans in politics ; attends the Christian Church. 

EDWARD HUNT, Justice of the Peace and Notary, Winslow ; born Aug. 
13, 1812, in Norfolk Co., Mass. ; in 1838, he came to Winslow; he followed the 
business of carriage and wagon making, till about 1859 ; he had formerly learned this 
trade in Massachusetts. He has served two or three years as Assistant Revenue Assessor, 
his commission being dated Sept. 30, 1863 ; has been about twenty-three years Town- 
ship Clerk, and about fourteen years Township Assessor ; five years Justice of the 
Peace. Married Maria Cox, Sept. 15, 1841; she was born in Oneida Co., N. Y., Aug. 
6, 1817. Presbyterian in religion ; Republican in politics. 

GEORGE N. KENNEDY, farmer, Sec. 31 ; P. 0. Winslow ; born 
March 13, 1830, in Lorain Co., Ohio; in 1845, he came with his parents to Wis- 
consin ; in 1847, he came to Stephenson County; he owns 149 acres of land; his 
father died in 1S56, aged 52 years ; his mother died June, 1878, aged 72 years ; he has 
been School Director the past nineteen years ; is Commissioner of Highways — has been 
for the past twenty-five years. Married Emily Barnes, Oct. 1, 1855; she was born, in 
1836, in Munson, Ohio; died in 1856 ; had one child — Edward; second marriage to 
Elizabeth Wright, in 1857; she was born in Munson, Ohio; had six children, five 
living — Emily, George, Arthur, Stewart, Luella ; lost Willie, aged three years ; attends 
M. E. Church. 

WILLIAM M. LINCOLN, farmer, Sec. 19; P. 0. Winslow ; born July 
6, 1822, in Chenango Co., N. Y. ; in 1845, he came to Stephenson County; he owns 
340 acres of land, part he entered ; has been School Director, etc. Married Mary J. 
Goss, in 1848 ; she was born in Chautauqua County, N. Y. ; they have one child — 
Wilber E. Presbyterian in religion ; Democrat in politics. 

MRS. OLIVA MARBLE, daughter of E. H. Watkins, Sec. 26; P. 0. 
Winslow; Hiram Marble was born October, 1813, in Vermont; in 1838, he came to 
Stephenson County; he died September, 1869 ; she owns 160 acres of land. They were 
married Sept. 6, 1833; she was born in Bradford Co., Pa.; her father still resides 
there ; he is now in his 86th year ; Mrs. Marble has just received a letter from her 



668 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES : 

father, which is very plainly written ; they had eleven children, eight living — four 
sons and four daughters ; her sons Lyman and Ephraim served in the late war ; Eph- 
raim died in 1878, aged 44 years. 

D. B. PACKER, farmer, Sec. 21 ; P. 0. Winslow; born Nov. 29, 1801, in 
Haverhill, Essex Co., Mass. ; in 1814, he came with his parents to Otsego Co., N. Y. ; 
in 1828, he came to Lorain Co., Ohio; in 1845, he came to Stephenson Co., thence to 
Walworth Co., Wis. ; kept a hotel here till 1847, when he removed to Kenosha, Wis. ; 
in 1851, returned to Stephenson Co. ; he owned and kept the hotel in Lena, which he 
exchanged for this farm of 1 60 acres ; has been Poor Master four years, Justice of 
the Peace, etc. Married Miss Desire Lincoln, in 1824; she was born in Otsego Co., 
N. Y., in 1808 ; had six children, two living — Rebecca and George. 

ROBERT PIL.SON, farmer, Sec. 36; P. 0. Winslow; born July 12, 
1816, in White Township, Indiana Co., Penn. ; May 8, 1855, he came to Stephenson 
County, he owns 219 acres of land. He married Eliza J. Ross Nov. 30, 1846 ; she 
was born Nov. 9, 1821, in Indiana Co., Penn., and died May 11, 1872 ; they have four 
children — three sons and one daughter ; his second marriage was to Mary M. Masser, 
March 12, 1877 ; she was born in Carbon Co., Penn. ; they have one son. Republican 
in politics; Presbyterian in religion. 

JEPTHA PROUTY, farmer, Sec. 31; P. O. Lena; born Oct. 14, 1814, 
in Bradford Co., Penn.; in 1850, he came to Stephenson Co.; he owns 280 acres 
of land in this couuty. also 320 acres in Iowa. He married Jane Wheeler in 1835 ; 
she was born in New York in 1817 ; they have ten children — seven sons and three 
daughters. Republican in politics. 

THOMAS RODEBAUGH, retired, Winslow; born Dec. 30, 1824, in 
Centre Co., Penn.; in 1828, he came to Ohio, following the carpenter trade till 1845, 
when he came to Stephenson Co., and has continued at this business part of the 
time since ; he owns the Winslow Hotel and two other residences in town ; has been 
School Director. He married Lavina Ferguson in December, 1844; she was born in 
Wayne Co., Ohio, in December, 1824; they have six children — Mary Ann (now Mrs. 
Taylor), Elizabeth (now Mrs. Wilson), Lovina (now Mrs. Eels), Charles D., Melissa 
(now Mrs. Edwards) and Daniel T. They attend the M. E. Church ; Democratic in 
politics. 

DR. J. W. SAUCERMAX, physician and surgeon, Winslow ; born 
Nov. 13, 1837, in Coshocton Co., Ohio; in 1844, he came to Green Co., Wis., with 
his parents ; in 1863, he removed to Winslow; in 1859, he commenced the study of 
medicine with Dr. Carver, graduated at the Rush Medical College, Chicago, in January, 
1863, and has been in constant practice since. He married Miss Luella Bradford in 
February, 1866; she was born in Winslow ; they have three children — John M., Sarah 
C. and Mary B. He owns his residence in town and 150 acres of land in this county ; 
also, 20 acres in Wisconsin. Presbyterian in religion. 

CHARLES Sll E A RD, farmer, Sec. 23 ; P. O. Warren ; born Nov. 21 , 
1805, in Yorkshire, England ; in 1832, he came to New York ; in about 1836, he 
removed to Canada, where he remained till 1849, when he came to Jo Daviess Co., 111.; 
in 1858, he came to his present farm ; he owns 210 acres of land. He married Eliza 
Thornton in 1838 ; she was born in Yorkshire, England ; they have eight children, 
seven living — Joseph, Thomas, Henry, Allen, George A., John and James L. ; Eli 
enlisted, in 1862, in Co. T, 31st W. V. I., and was killed in 1865; Joseph, Thomas 
and Henry also served in the late war. 

WIULIAM SMITH, farmer, Sec. 29; P. O. Winslow; born Nov. 24, 
1844, in Cattaraugus Co., N. Y.; when a boy he came to Stephenson Co., with his 
parents, where he has since lived ; he owns 120 acres of land. Married Louisa Howe in 
1868; she was born in 1847; have two children — Emily and Sarah; he enlisted, in 
1861, in Co. G, 46th, I. V. I.; served to the end of the war ; was in the battles of Shiloh, 
Tallahatchie, siege of Vicksburg, and others. 



WADDAMS TOWNSHIP. 669 

MRS. CELESTIA A. STAVER, wife of Jonathan M. Staver, 
deceased, Sec. 30 ; P. 0. Winslow ; he was born Sept. 21, 1834, in Centre Co., Pa.; in 
1875 they came to Winslow Township; he died April 4, 1876. He was married March 
24, 1861, to Miss Celestia A., daughter of Thomas Bowen ; she was born in Michigan, 
Feb. 18, 1834; own 350 acres land; have six children — Oscar B., George B., 
Mary B., James M. B., Perry B. and Alma L. B. ; lost, Jennie R. B., Dec. 26, 1879, 
•aged 7 years; they had previously lived in Green Co., Wis., where Mr. S. held the 
offices of Justice of the Peace, County Superintendent, etc. Evangelical Church. 

D. M. STAVER, farmer, Sec. 30; P. 0. Nora; born May 10, 1849, in 
Clinton Co., Pa.; when a child he came with his parents to Stephenson Co. ; in about 
1856. they removed to Green Co., Wis.; in 1872, he returned to Stephenson Co. ; 
he owns 215 acres of land. Married Christina Huver in 1868 ; she was born in Clinton 
Co., Penn.; they have three children — Elery H., Cora H. and Rosa H. Republican in 
politics. 

THOMAS P. STEERE, farmer, and proprietor of cheese factory, Winslow ; 
born Sept. 10, 1835, in Chenango Co., N. Y.; in 1844 he came with his parents to 
Winslow Township ; he owns about 300 acres of land, also the cheese factory, which he 
built in 1875. Married Sarah SpafFord, March 7, 1859; she was born in Otsego Co., 
N. Y.; they have seven children — Fred, Herbert, William, Mary, Martha, Sarah and 
Annis L. Attend Methodist Episcopal Church. Democrat in politics. 

JAMES TURNBULL, general merchandise, Winslow; born May iJ, 
1812, in Jedburg, Scotland ; in 1833 he came to New York City ; in 1834 he went to 
North Carolina, remained there till the fall of 1835, when he returned to New York; in 
1837, he came to Chicago ; engaged in the dry goods trade about one year; in 1838, he 
■came to Stephenson Co.; followed farming till 1848, when he came to Winslow; he 
then carried on the cabinet trade till 1855, when he commenced his present business; 
he was elected President of the Freeport, Pecatonica Valley & State-Line R. R.; has 
been twice elected to this position. Married Sarah Kent in 1842; she was born in 
Hannibal, N. Y.; have two children — Christie M. and James A. Presbyterian in 
religion. 

MRS. CATHARINE VAUGHN, Sec. 34 ; P. O. Winslow ; she was 
born in Denmark, N. Y., April 21, 1820 ; she is a daughter of A. Fry. She was married 
to Orrin Vaughn, in 1838; he was born March 27, 1811, in New York; in 1848 they 
<caine to their present farm, consisting of 180 acres of land ; he died April 15, 1860 ; 
have eight children — Rosina, Oscar O., Josephine, Adelbert, Charles, Wilber, Romelia 
and Eugenia ; Oscar O. enlisted in 1863, in the 46th I. V. I., and served to the end 
of the war. 

JOHN WALES, farmer, Sec. 32 ; P. 0. Winslow; born Aug. 10, 1816, in 
Union Co., Penn. ; in 1846 he came to Stephenson Co. ; he first bought and improved a 
farm of 80 acres in West Point Township, now owned by A. Doll ; he sold this farm in 
1853 ; the following year he bought his present farm of 160 acres, which he has well im- 
proved ; he has since sold about two acres of this land ; he has been School Director and 
Treasurer for about thirty years. Married Catharine Romig, Nov. 15, 1838; she was 
born October, 1806, in Union Co., Penn.; they have one son — Alfred B., born May 2, 
1844, in Union Co., Penn.; he married Rachel Armagost, March 15, 1863; she was 
born in Clarion Co., Penn. ; thev have six children — two sons and four daughters. 



WADDAMS TOWNSHIP. 

MRS. LUCY AULT, proprietor of the Pennsylvania Hotel, McConnell's 
Grove; her husband. James Ault, was born Jan. 1, 1825. in Centre Co., Penn.; he 
died in November, in 1860. She came with her parents to Stephenson Co., in 1844 ; they 
were married in 1845 ; she was the daughter of George and Rebecca Lara, and was born 
Jan. 31, 1827; she owns 172 acres of land about this hotel property; have eight 



670 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

children — William, Ellen, Calvin, Frank, George, Laura, Jane and James ; she has kept 
this hotel constantly for the past 25 years. 

W. K. BECHTOLD, farmer, Sec. 17 ; P. 0. McConnell's Grove ; born 
Aug. 31, 1852, in Lebanon Co., Penn. ; in the spring of 1855 he came with his parents 
to Stephenson Co. ; his father owns about 140 acres of land, which he manages. Mar- 
ried Miss Delilah Stutsman, in 1878; she was born in Elkhart Co., Ind.; they have 
one child — Lucinda E. His father, William Bechtold, was born Jan. 30, 1821, in 
Lebanon Co., Penn. ; he was engaged at various pursuits before coming West, among 
which was milling, boating on the Schuylkill River, mason-work and burning lime ; he 
sold from fifty to sixty thousand bushels a year ; continued this about eleven years ; he 
served seventeen years as Captain of the Pennsylvania Volunteers, as commander of the 
2d Brigade, 5th Division ; in the spring of 1855 he removed to this county ; he has 
the finest garden and vineyard in the county ; many of his grapes are imported ; he 
owns a very desirable residence, built in 1871 ; it cost $3,000. He married Elizabeth 
Smelser, Oct. 18, 1841 ; she was born in Berks Co., Penn., Jan. 15, 1820 ; they have 
had seven children, six living — Samuel A., Mary M., Levi S., William K., Andrew S. 
and Linus (jr.; Aaron J., died Aug. 31, 1845, in his third year. 

THOMAS BROWN, farmer, Sec. 12; P. O. McConnell's Grove; born 
Jan. 26, 1823, in Centre Co., Penn. ; in 1853 he came to Stephenson Co. ; he owns 80 
acres of land. He married Miss Susanna England, in 1846; she was born in Centre 
Co., Penn. ; they have one son — George L. ; Thomas L. died in 1868, aged 17 years ; 
lost two children in infancy. He is a Republican in politics. 

JL. B. CHURCHILL, farmer, Sec. 19; P. O. McConnell's Grove; born 
Dec. 12, 1831, in Georgia, Franklin Co., Vt. ; in 1841, he came with his parents to 
Franklin Co., N. Y. ; in 1849, they removed to Freeport, 111. ; in 1867, he came to 
his present farm, consisting of 73 acres. Married Mary J. Hawkins, daughter of 
Thomas H. Hawkins, who came to this county in 1835 ; he died May 16, 1879 ; she 
was born in Pendleton Co., Ky., in 1833 ; they have five children — Herbert, William, 
Abbie, John and Frank. He enlisted in 1861 in the 12th I. V. L, Company B ; served 
till April, 1862, and participated in the battles of Fort Donelson and Shiloh. 

IV. A. CLARK, farmer, Sec. 35; P.O. Lena; born June 23, 1852, in 
Waddams Township ; in 1850, his parents came to this locality ; his father died April 
11, 1874, aged 58 years ; he owns 172 acres of land. He married Miss Lydia Shoe- 
smith in 1879 ; she was born in Kent Township. 

J. C. COXATY, retired, McConnell's Grove; born in 1818, in Boston, 
Mass. ; after completing his education, he secured a position with the Boston Water 
Works, under the supervision of Chief Engineer Thomas S. Williams ; continued about 
three years ; he was then appointed station agent of the Boston & Maine Railroad at 
Summerville, and held this position a short time; in 1856, he came to Stephenson 
County, and was emplowed by the Illinois Central Railroad Company to superintend 
getting out timber and having charge of their property at McConnell's Grove ; he held 
this position till 1865 ; he then purchased the McConnell tract, consisting of 905 
acres ; he now owns about 300 acres of land, also a portion of the town plat, including 
the brick store and other town property. Married Mary Riley in 1842 ; she was born 
in Ireland ; they had five children, three living — Mary A., now Mrs. Rogers ; William 
and Charlotte; Elizabeth, died October, 1874, aged 22 years; Helen, died February, 
1880, aged 28 years ; his daughters all received a good education. Mrs. Rogers 
graduated in Chicago ; during her course of studies, she lived with the family of the 
Hon. E. S. Chesborough ; she taught the Grammar School in Lena during 1870 ; she 
and her sisters have taught school about eight years each. 

JAMES COXOX, farmer, Sec. 31 ; P. O. Damascus; born Aug. 15, 1809, 
in Derbyshire, England ; in 1849, he came to Cincinnati ; in 1850, he came to Stephen- 
son Co. ; he owns 91 acres of land. Married Ann Bacon April 5, 1842 ; she was born 
May 29, 1807, in Derbyshire, England ; they had two children, one living — Elizabeth ; 
lost Anna in 1850, aged 4 years. Attends M. E. Church, and Democrat in politics. 



WADDAMS TOWNSHIP. 671 

TRUMAN L. CROSS, farmer, Sec. 5 ; P. 0. McConnell's Grove ; born 
Dec. 7, 1839, in Winslow Township; he owns 78 acres of land. He enlisted, in 
1863, in the 67th I. V. I., Co. H ; served four months. Married Miss Magdalene 
Jones in 1864 ; she was born in Buffalo, N. Y. ; they have six children — Mary J., 
Emma A., Thomas G., John F., Helen S. andLuella. 

MARTIN FOGEL, farmer, Sec. 9 ; P. 0. McConnell's Grove ; born Aug. 
30, 1817, in Philadelphia ; when a child he came to Union Co., Penn., with his 
parents ; in 1856, he came to Stephenson Co., where he has since lived ; he owns 120 
acres of land, which he has improved. He married Mary Swatzlanderin 1845 ; she was 
born in 1828, in Union Co., Penn.; they have had eight children, seven living — Simon 
M., George H, Fannie E., Amanda C, Catharine E., Abraham F. and William J. C.;. 
Lucy B. died in 1858, aged 7 years ; he has one daughter by a former marriage, 
Mary A. 

HIRAM FULLER, farmer, Sec. 31 ; P. 0. Lena ; born March 2, 1816 ; 
in Otsego Co., N. Y.; in 1864, he came to his present farm; he owns 107? acres of 
land ; he served twenty-eight days in the Patriot war of 1837-38. He married Miss 
Sarah Sophia Stoddard, June 10, 1841 ; she was born in Crawford Co., Penn., Nov. 1, 
1822; they have five children — Fidelia S. (uow Mrs. Redman), Daniel S., William R., 
Eva A. (now Mrs. Gates), and Hattie E. (now Mrs. Houser). Daniel S. enlisted in 
February, 1862, from Genesee Co., N. Y., in the heavy artillery, and served to the end 
of the war. Republican in politics. 

J. B. GATES, farmer; Sec. 31 ; P. 0. Damascus; born Oct. 19, 1808, in 
Hampshire Co., N. Y.; in 1836, he came to Winnebago Co., 111.; in 1844, he came to 
Stephenson Co.; he owns 150 acres of land, which he entered and improved, He was 
married Jan. 31, 1832, to Miss Polly Rancier, daughter of Jabez and Betsey Fuller ; 
she was born in New Lisbon, N. Y., Nov. 24, 1810 ; they had ten children, eight living 
— Austin H., Quincy A., Hiram J., Caroline E., Henry H., Emeline L., Norman J., 
Martin L. ; they lost two children in infancy; his father, Daniel Gates, died in 1864,. 
aged 86 years. 

HON. HUBBARD GRAVES, farmer, Sec. 2 ; P. 0. Winslow; born 
Nov. 4, 1804, in Chenango Co., N. Y.; in 1810, he came with his parents to Scioto 
Co., Ohio ; in 1834, he came to Putnam Co., 111.; in 1835, he removed to Stephenson Co., 
where he has since resided ; he owns 220 acres of land. In 1839, he was elected Sheriff, 
and served two years ; he has been County Commissioner one year ; he represented 
Carroll and Stephenson Counties in the Legislature during 1842-43 ; he has been 
Justice of the Peace about twenty years ; has been Township Clerk ; he collected the 
first taxes in this county, the amount collected being $96. He married Miss Cynthia 
Robey, in 1830: she was born in Scioto Co., Ohio, in 1811; they had eleven 
children, five living — Mary, Charles, Martha, Lora and Fannie. Republican in politics. 

CHARLES GRAVES, general merchandise, McConnell's Grove ; born 
Nov. 12, 1834, in Sangamon Co., 111.; the following year he came with his parents to* 
Stephenson Co., where he has since lived; in 1874, he started a flour and feed store 
in Lena ; carried on this business until 1877, when he came to McConnell's Grove. 
He married Mary Webster in 1860 ; she was born in New Hampshire ; they have two 
children — Annettie and Myrtle. 

SAMUEL W. GRISSINGER, farmer, Sec. 17; P. 0. McConnell's. 
Grove ; born Feb. 15, 1814, in York Co., Penn. ; at about the age of 20 years he com- 
menced to learn the carpenter's trade, and has followed this business about thirty years ; 
in 1839, he came to Harrison Co., Ohio; in 1857, to Ogle Co., 111. ; the following year 
he came to Stephenson Co. ; he owns 108 acres of land. He married Margaret 
Bradley in 1837 ; she was born in York Co., Penn., in 1814 ; they had seven children ; 
six are living — Rachel, Ann Eliza, William B., Frank, Mary and Thomas ; lost one 
child in infancy. Frank enlisted, in 1862, in the 93d I. V. I.; served to the end of 
the war ; William B. enlisted, in 1863, in the 46th I. V. I. ; served to the end of the 
war. 



•672 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

CHARLES P. GUENTHER, farmer, Sec. 15 ; P. 0. Lena ; born Sept. 
24, 1820, in Frankfort-on- the- Main e ; in 1836, he came to Dutchess Co., N. Y. ; in 
1839, to Buffalo, N. Y. ; in 1847, to Alleghany Co., Penn.; in 1853, he came to Ste- 
phenson Co. ; he owns 100 acres of land ; he is a minister of the German Baptist de- 
nomination ; has been since 1859. He married Miss Mary Emmel in 1847 ; she was born 
in Germany ; they have seven children — Emma, Eliza, Charles, Amelia, John, Mary and 
Samuel. Republican in politics. 

J. L. HARTSOUCirH, general merchandise, McConnell's Grove ; born 
Aug. 23, 1840, in Indiana Co., Penn.; in 1857, he came to Stephenson Co., where 
he has since lived ; he worked at farming till October, 1867, when he came to McCon- 
nell's Grove and commenced his present business. He has been Township Superintend- 
ent ; has been Justice of the Peace the .past twelve years ; has been Township Clerk, 
and has held most of the township offices ; he has also been a member of the Town 
Board for the past twelve years. He married Miss Mary Robey in 1867 ; she was born 
in Waddams Township ; they have four children — Frank, Jennie, Lulu and Anna. 

WILLIAM H. HOLMES, farmer, Sec. 31; P.O. Damascus; born May24, 
1827, in Yorkshire, England; in 1851, he came to Middlesex Co., Conn. ; in 1852, he 
came to Stephenson Co., where he has since resided ; he owns 173 acres of land, and has 
improvements equal to any in the township, having built a good brick house and barn, 
and otherwise well improved. Married Rachel Whatmuff, May 2, 1855 ; she was born 
Dec. 6, 1826, in Yorkshire, England; they have five children — Anna Matilda, now 
Mrs. F. Gregsby; John A., George E., William H. and Joseph. Republican in poli- 
tics ; Methodist Episcopal in religion. 

THOMAS JONAS, farmer, Sec. 5 ; P. O. McConnell's Grove ; born July 
10, 1800, in Germany; in 1834, he came to Buffalo, N. Y. ; in 1850, he came to Ste- 
phenson Co. ; he owns 45 acres of land, improved with a good house, which cost 
$1,200, and a barn that cost $900. He married Saloma Rench in 1836 ; she was born 
in 1816, in Germany ; they have ten children — four sons and six daughters ; they lost 
one child in infancy. 

B. KLECKLER, farmer, Sec. 13 ; P. O. McConnell's Grove ; born Nov. 
4, 1820, in Baden, Germany ; in 1844, he came to Stephenson Co. ; he owns 212 acres 
of land, well improved, with good, substantial buildings, etc. Married Ocela Sicwalt, 
in 1844 ; she was born in France, in 1818 ; they have eight children — John P., Jacob, 
Fred, Henry, Michael, Mary, Louisa and Caroline ; his son, John P., enlisted in 1862, 
in the 46th I. V. I., and served to the end of the war. Attends Lutheran Church. 

WILLIAM KLECKNER, farmer, Sec. 28 ; P. O. Damascus ; born Jan. 
12, 1824, in Northampton Co., Penn. ; in 1840, he came to Stephenson Co. ; he owns 
30 acres of land, with a comfortable house and barn. He enlisted in 1864, in Co. E, 
146th I. V. I. ; served to the end of the war. Married Mrs. Hostetter, in 1874; she 
was born in Cumberland Co., Penn. ; had three children, two living — Mary and Alice ; 
Mrs. K. has one child by a former marriage — Chressie. 

ALOXZO LUSK, farmer, Sec. 18; P. O. McConnell's Grove; born July 
28, 1808, in Hartford Co., Conn. ; at about the age of 13 years he came with his 
parents to Genesee Co., N. Y. ; in 1831, he came to Cuyahoga Co., Ohio ; in 1840, he 
came to Stephenson Co., 111. ; in the spring of 1850, he went back to Ohio, and in the 
fall returned here, where he has lived since ; he owns 70 acres of land. Married Fide- 
lia Stowel, in 1833 ; she was born in 1814, in New York ; died in 1873 ; had eleven 
children, ten living — Charles, Frank, Mary, La Fayette, Emma, Edward and Edwin 
are twins, Lyman, Ida and Ella ; lost Caroline in 1861, aged 23 years ; Frank enlisted 
in 1861, and served to the end of the war. 

G. W. LUTTS, farmer, Sec. 14; P. O. Lena; born July 4, 1826, in Lyco- 
ming Co., Penn. ; in 1847, he came to Michigan ; in 1849, he came to Stephenson Co., 
111.; in 1852, he went to California; in 1855, he returned to Stephenson Co.; in the 
spring of 1860, he went to Missouri; returned to this county the following year, where 
he has since lived ; he owns 70 acres of land, with a good stone house and other 



WADDAMS TOWNSHIP. 673 

improvements. Married Miss C. A. Galaher, in 1857 ; she was born in Indiana Co., 
Penn. ; have four children — Catharine, William, Cora and George ; lost Sarah in 
infancy. Republican in politics ; attends M. E. Church. 

NORMAN PHILLIPS, farmer, Sec. 32 ; P. 0. Damascus; born Oct. 15, 
1801, in Plainfield, N. Y. ; in 1837, he came to Stephenson Co., and entered about 
500 acres of land, and now owns about 420 acres; he has been Justice of the Peace, 
Township Superintendent, Assessor and School Director. His son, Parley A., enlisted 
February, 1865, in Co. G., 92d I. V. I., and served to the end of the war ; was at the 
battle of Raleigh, N. C. ; James M. enlisted in 1862, Co. G., 92d I. V. I. ; served to 
the end of the war. Married Phebe A. Martin, Sept. 1, 1833; she was born July 16, 
1808, in Martindale, N. Y. ; died Oct. 29, 1843; have three children— Parley A., 
James M. and Ambrose S. ; second marriage to Miss Desiah Hathaway, Sept. 1844; 
she was born in 1805, in Otsego Co., N. Y. ; died in 1855 ; have one daughter — Mary. 

JOHN PRICE, farmer, Sec. 9; P. O. McConnell's Grove; born Sept. 10, 
1815, in Centre Co., Penn.; in 1846 he came to Stephenson Co., where he has since 
lived ; he first bought 1 acre of land, and added to this 9 acres as soon as he could pay 
for it; he kept adding as his means would admit, and now owns 138 acres, well im- 
proved ; he has a good house and barn, and other out-buildings. He married Sarah 
Bobb in 1838 ; she was born in 1818, in Union Co., Penn.; they have six children — 
Jeremiah, Catharine, James C., Elizabeth, Jonathan and William H. 

JAMES PRICE, groceries and confectionery, and Postmaster, McConnell's 
Grove ; born Feb. 4, 1832, in Mifflin Co., Penn.; in 1865 he came to Waddams Town- 
ship ; in 1876 he commenced his present business. He was appointed Postmaster in 
1877 ; he has been Township Clerk five years. He married Miss Lydia Smith in 1856 ; 
she was born in Snyder Co., Penn.; they have five children — Sarah A., Adam A., 
Emma J., Martha E., Carrie S.; lost Henry H. in 1865, aged 5 years. 

MICHAEL RIDLEBAUGH, farmer, Sec. 17; P. O. McConnell's 
Grove; born Jan. 30, 1811, in Germany ; in 1839 he came to Union Co., Penn.; in 
1851 he came to Stephenson Co.; he owns 51 acres of land. Married Elizabeth Arney 
in 1841 ; she was born in Union Co., Penn., Jan. 10, 1818 ; had five children, four liv- 
ing — Robert, Henry, Melinda and Amanda. 

LEVI ROBE Y, farmer, Sec. 12 ; P. O. McConnell's Grove ; he was born 
Oct. 22, 1807, in Scioto, Washington Township, Scioto Co., Ohio; Nov. 21, 1834, 
he came to Stephenson Co., and settled where he now lives ; he is probably the earliest 
settler in the county living; he entered about half a section of land, and now owns 114 
acres. He was the first Justice of the Peace in this county; was commissioned by Gov. 
Duncan previous to Jo Daviess and Stephenson Counties being divided ; he was one of 
the commissioners appointed by the court to lay off" the townships in Stephenson Co.; 
he has served seven terms as County Supervisor, and was the first elected in Wad- 
dams Township ; he has held about all the other minor offices in the township. He 
married Miss Almira Waite, Dec. 26, 1833 ; she was born in Cortland Co., N. Y., July 
18, 1813 ; they have five children : William A., Louisa E., Cyrus A., Mary M. and 
Levi W.; Cyrus A. enlisted in 1862, in Co. D, 93d I. V. L; was wounded at the 
battle of Altoona, Ga., Nov. 6, 1864 ; is a Democrat in politics. 

JACOB C. RUNKLE, farmer, Sec. 2 ; P. O. McConnell's Grove ; born 
Feb. 16, 1810, in Centre Co., Penn.; in 1857 he came to Stephenson Co.; he owns 80 
acres of land. He married Caroline Fye, in 1857; she was born in Centre Co., Penn.; 
they have seven children, four sons and three daughters ; Democrat in politics ; Presby- 
terian in religion. 

DR. D. W. SCOTT, physician and surgeon, McConnell's Grove ; born 
Nov. 21, 1833, in Geauga Co., Ohio; at about the age of 4 years, he came with his 
parents to Buena Vista, 111. ; in about 1858, he commenced the study of medicine; 
graduated in 1870, at the Eclectic Medical College, Cincinnati ; in 1865, he commenced 
practicing in Green Co., Wis. ; in 1870, he removed to Buena Vista, where he contin- 
ued practicing till 1879, when he came to McConnell's Grove. Married Miss Urania 



674 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Trotter in 1863; she was born in Stephenson Co. ; they have two children — Minnie 
and Myron. 

SANFORD S. SHERMAN, farmer, Sec. 19 ; P. 0. McConnell's Grove; 
born Aug. 8, 1830, in Essex Co., N. Y. ; in 1849, he came to Knox Co., 111. ; in 1860, 
he came to Stephenson Co. ; he owns 220 acres of land, with a good house, 
barn, and an orchard of about 200 trees, and other improvements. He married Miss 
Emma Lock in 1859 ; she was born in Essex Co., N. Y. ; they have six children — 
Emma, Edrick, Lillie, John, Rosa and Raymond; lost three children in infancy. He 
and his daughters, Emma and Lillie, are members of the church of the United Breth- 
ren ; Mrs. S. is a member of the M. E. Church. 

WILLIAM SHIPPEE, farmer, Sec. 9 ; P. O. McConnell's Grove ; born 
Dec. 7, 1816, in Bergen Co., N. J.; in 1839, he came to Clearfield Co., Penn ; in 
1852, he came to Stephenson Co. ; he owns 128 acres of land ; he has been eight years 
Justice of the Peace. He was married March 30, 1856, to Mary, daughter of Samuel 
Bechtold ; she was born in Clark Co., Ohio ; she came to Stephenson Co. when a child, 
with her parents ; they have eleven children — four sons and seven daughters ; he has 
two children by a former marriage — John and Ira. 

ROBERT SISSON, farmer. Sec. 23; P. O. Lena; born March 28, 1814, 
in Cambridgeshire, England ; in 1843, he came to Stephenson Co., where he has since 
resided ; he owns 225 acres of land. His brother, William, was born in June, 1812, 
and has been a resident of this county the past thirty-nine years ; he entered this land 
from the Government, and has since lived here. He married Miss Mary A. Foreman 
in 1843 ; she was born in 1824, in Cambridgeshire, England ; they have eleven chil- 
dren — William, Robert, Mary Ann, Ruth, Rebecca, Susan, Jane, Christopher, John 
P., Moses and Joshua ; his son William enlisted, in 1862, in Co. G, 92d I. V. I., and 
served to the end of the war ; his eyesight is very much injured from exposure when 
in the service. 

A. F. STAMM, farmer, Sec. 8 ; P. 0. McConnell's Grove ; born Feb. 7, 
1840, in Centre Co., Penn. ; in 1855, he came with his parents to Michigan ; in 1856, 
they came to Stephenson Co. ; he owns 93 acres of land, which he has improved ; in 
1877, he built a very substantial barn, 32x50, which cost about $1,000. He married 
Miss Leah Stamm in November, 1866 ; she was born in Centre Co., Penn. ; his father 
died April 13, 1871, in his 63d year. 

J. II. STAMM, general merchandise, McConnell's Grove ; born May 27, 
1852, in Huntington Co., Penn.; when he was 3 years of age he came with his parents 
to Waddams Township: he was engaged in farming till 1874, when he was employed as 
clerk for McNutt & Shippy ; continued with this firm till 1877, when he commenced 
his present business ; he has been Township Clerk. He married Elizabeth Masters, 
July, 1879 ; she was born in Maryland. 

ANDREW ST. JOHN, farmer, Sec. 9 ; P. O. Buena Vista ; born Sept, 11, 
1807, in St. Clair Co., 111.; in 1825 he came with his parents to Sangamon Co.; in 1827 
he went to Galena and engaged in mining; in 1830 he returned to Sangamon Co.; in 
1836 he came to Stephenson Co., where he has since lived ; he owns 228 acres of 
land. He married Catharine Chilton, April 23, 1830 ; she was born in Madison Co., 
111., Feb. 27, 1811; died May 24, 1880 ; they had six children, four living— William 
A., Armenda F. (now Mrs. Bobb), Jane S. (now Mrs. Soladay), and Sarah (now Mrs. 
Sheckler); Thomas enlisted August, 1862; died at Camp Douglas, Chicago, October, 
1862 ; lost Mary, aged 17 years. 

JEREMIAH SWART, farmer, Sec. 25 ; P. O. Lena ; he was born 
March 21, 1849, in Waddams Township; his father, Isaac D. G. Swart, was born May, 
1812, in New York; about 1844 he came to this locality; he died Sept. 14, 1878; 
owns 253 acres of land. He was married, in 1848, to Mrs. Orpha Allen; she was 
born in Canada, in 1822 ; they have three children — Jeremiah, Amelia and Susan; she- 
has three children by a former marriage — Torrence, Polly and Roxie. 



FLORENCE TOWNSHIP. 675 

HENRY W OH L FORD, farmer, Sec. 4 ; P. 0. Orangeville ; born Dec. 
9, 1811, in Center Co., Penn.; in 1842 he came to Stephenson Co., where he has since 
lived ; he learned the tanner's trade in Pennsylvania, and worked at this business till he 
came to this county ; he owns 136 acres of land, which he entered and improved. He 
married Catharine Worneldorf, in 1835; she was born in 1815; they have ten children 
— four sons and six daughters. 



FLORENCE TOWNSHIP. 

JOHN Q. ADAMS, farmer, Sec. 35 ; P. 0. Florence Station; born July 12, 
1831, in Orleans Co., Vt.; in March, 1851, he came to Stephenson Co.; he followed 
the carpenter's trade about two years ; he then went to California ; returned in 1858 ; 
has since been engaged in farming ; he owns 240 acres of land ; has been Township 
Superintendent during 1873-74, and has held about all the township offices ; his brothers, 
Newell H., Abel P., James C. and Orin J., served in the late war. Married Julia Van 
Brocklin in 1858 ; she was born in Lewis Co., N. Y.; have eight children — Morris, Hattie, 
Oscar C. A., Eva A., Lincoln, Florence J., Clara and William A. Republican in poli- 
tics. 

JOHN ASPINWAL.L, farmer, Sec. 6 ; P. 0. Freeport ; born July 21, 
1817, in Saratoga Co., N. Y.; in 1817, he removed with his parents to Chautauqua Co., 
N. Y.; in 1845, he came to Stephenson Co.; he owns 225 acres of land, part he entered ; 
he owns a substantial stone house, three barns and other improvements. Married Lucy 
Shumway, March 1, 1835 ; she was born in Jefferson Co., N. Y., May, 1813 ; have seven 
children — Henry, John, Sterne, Homer, Milo (now a dentist and a resident of Chicago), 
Arvilla and Lucy A.; Junius died Oct. 21, 1874, aged 20 years. Republican in poli- 
tics. 

MRS. PATRICK BARRON, Sec. 32 ; P. 0. Shannon ; her husband, 
Mr. Barron, was born November, 1829, in Ireland ; in 1849, he came with his father to 
Stephenson Co. ; he died, January, 1876. He married Margaret Molton, Jan. 17, 1859 ; 
she was born in Ireland, May 20, 1839 ; have five children —William, John, Emily, 
Kate and Clara ; she owns 370 acres of land. 

MICHAEL. BASTIAN, farmer, Sec 33; Florence Station; born in 
Alsace, France, May 27, 1827 ; in 1858, he came to Stephenson Co.; he first bought 80 
acres, which he improved, then he added to this 70 acres ; now owns 150 acres ; he first 
built a frame house, which was burned ; he now owns a good brick house, which cost 
about $1,600, and barn, 36x56, cost $900, and other good improvements. Married Miss 
Katie Mallo, in 1858; she was born in Alsace; they had five children, four living — 
Katie, Michael, John and Ellen ; lost Mary in infancy. 

ANDREW BLACK, farmer, Sec. 29; P. O. Freeport; born March 1, 
1834, in Ireland; in 1852, he came to Vermont; in 1854, he came to Stephenson Co.; 
he owns 160 acres of land ; has been School-Director. Married Ellen May, March 11, 
1858; she was born in Vermont; had seven children, four living — Harvey W., 
Eddie N.; William Irvin, and Ettie A., whom they adopted. 

JOHN BURCKHARDT, farmer; P. O. Florence Station ; born Nov. 14, 
1844, in Baden ; when he was 4 years old, he came, with his parents, to Silver Creek 
Township ; he enlisted, December, 1863, in Co. C, 46th I. V. I. ; served two years ; 
in 1866, he came to his present farm, consisting of 160 acres of land ; this farm he has 
improved with a good brick house, cost about $2,300 ; a barn, 40x72, cost $1,800, and 
other improvements. Married Albertina Waetzke in 1866 ; she was born in Germany; 
they have eight children — William H., Anna M., Alfred J., Charles F., Henry, Eliza- 
beth A., Margaret A., and an infant not named. 

ABRAHAM DIEHL, farmer, Sec. 36; P. O. Florence Station; born 
March 24, 1835, in Albany, N. Y. ; in 1837, he came, with his parents, to Hancock 
Co., Ohio ; here he worked at the carpenter's trade about ten years ; he enlisted in 1861 



676 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES : 

in Co. E., 49th 0. V. I., and served-three years; participated in the battles of Shiloh r 
Stone River, Perryville, Chickamauga, Mission Ridge, capture of Atlanta, and others; in 
1870 he came to Ogle Co. ; in 1872 he came to Stephenson Co. ; he owns 80 acres of 
land. Married Elizabeth Leonard in 1864 ; she was born in Gallia Co., Ohio ; they have 
four children — Stephen A., Ida R., Anna Belle C. and Charles E. United Brethren in 
religion ; Republican in politics. 

T. L. EARLY, farmer, Sec 19; P. Freeport ; born April 23, 1813, in 
Whitley Co., Ky. ; in 1837, he came to Stephenson Co., where he has since lived ; he 
owns 125 acres of land, part he entered. Married Sarah Faris in 1844; she was born 
in Knox Co., Ky., in 1830 ; they have three children— John F., William H. and Mary 
E. Republican in politics. 

ELI ELLIS, farmer, Sec 19 ; P. 0. Freeport; born April 2, 1839, in Green 
Co., N. Y. ; in 1S44, he came with his parents to Stephenson Co.; he owns 131 acres 
of land, which was entered by his father. Has been School Director, Commissioner of 
Highway, Township Superintendent, Collector, and has held about all the township 
offices. He enlisted in 1864, Co. A, 46th I. V. I. ; served to the end of the war; participated 
in the battles of Spanish Fort, Biakeley and others. His father died in March, 1878, 
aged 61 years. Married Lucy Mabie, March 1866; she was born in New York; they 
have one child — Henry C. Republican in politics. 

AUGUST FRONING, farmer, Sec. 22 ; P. 0. Freeport ; he was born in 
1830 in Prussia; in 1857, he came to Stephenson Co. ; he owns 280 acres of land ; is 
Township Treasurer. Married Margaret Bowhen in 1854; she was born in Prussia;, 
they have seven children — John, Katie, Henry, Herman, Lizzie, August and Douglas. 

GEORGE HAMM, farmer, Sec. 34 ; P. 0. Florence Station ; born Dec. 24, 
1831, in Alsace, Germany; in 1851, he came to Stephenson Co. ; he owns 143 acres of 
land; has been twelve years School Director His brother Valentine enlisted in 1864; 
served about eight months ; was discharged on account of sickness. Married Elizabeth 
Garman in 1860 ; she was born in Lebanon Co., Pa. ; they have ten children — five sons 
and five daughters. 

AUGUST HOEFER, farmer, Sec. 29 ; P. 0. Florence Station ; born Nov. 
8, 1838, io Prussia ; in 1856, he came to Stephenson Co. ; he owns 120 acres of land- 
He is Township Clerk and School Director. Married Miss Mena Petermeier in 1866 ; 
she was born in Prussia. 

JOHN HOLLER, farmer, Sec. 22; P. 0. Freeport; born June 15, 1842, 
in Erie Co., N. Y. ; in 1859, he came with his parents to Stephenson Co.; he owns 200 
acres of land. Has been School Director the past six years. Married Mary Mowrer 
in 1869; she was born in Canada; have four children — John, George, Charles and 
William. 

JACOB HOFFMANN, farmer, Sec. 34; P. 0. Florence Station; born 
April 23, 1826, in Baden ; in 1853, he came to Stephenson Co.; in 1864, he came to 
his present farm; he owns 140 acres of land. He married Barbara Heilman, in 1853; 
she was born in Baden ; they have seven children — five living — Lizzie, Mary, John, 
Louis aud Katie. 

CHRISTOFER MAYER, farmer, Sec. 12; P. 0. Freeport ;_ born Sept. 
4, 1823, in Wurtemberg, Germany ; in 1845 he came to Ogle Co., 111. ; in 1854 he 
came to Stephenson Co.; he owns 205 acres of land. Married Margaret Baecher in 
1849 ; she was born in Germany in January, 1823; they have eight children — Louisa, 
Amelia, Mary, Rebecca, Samuel, Rosa, Louis and Laura. 

JOSEPH MEYER, farmer, Sec. 14 ; P. 0. Freeport ; born March 1, 1822, 
in Germany ; in 1852 he came to Stephenson Co. ; he owns 160 acres of land. Married 
Kate Alert in 1855; she was born in Germany; they have three children — John, 
Joseph and Lizzie. 

GEORGE A. MOORE, farmer, Sec. 8; P. 0. Freeport ; born Jan. 2, 1817, 
in Berks Co., Pa. ; when about 10 years old, he came, with his parents, to Lycoming 
Co. ; in 1850 he came to Stephenson Co., where he has since lived ; he owns 160 acres 



FLORENCE TOWNSHIP. 677 

of la>id. Married Christina Cole in 1839 ; she was horn in 1820, in Berks Co., Pa. ; 
they have eleven children — Mary, Catharine, Delia J., George W., David, William W. r 
Isaac, Franklin, Elias, Charles H. and Ira Lincoln ; George W. enlisted in 1862 in the 
46th I. V. I., and served to the end of the war. Free Methodist in religion ; Repub- 
lican in politics. 

SIMON PETERMEIER, farmer, Sec. 21 ; P. 0. Florence Station ; born 
Jan. 12, 1846, in Germany; in 1860, he came to Stephenson Co. ; he owns 240 acres 
of land ; his brother Fred enlisted in 1862, 92d I. V. I., served three years. Married 
Amelia Schroadermier, March, 1871 ; she was born in Stephenson Co.; they have four 
children — Limon, Edward, Lydia and Henry. 

JACOB PFIEL, farmer, Sec. 24; P. 0. Freeport ; born Sept. 18, 1827, in 
Germany ; in 1843, he caaiu to Milwaukee ; first worked on a farm, then worked at the 
carpenter trade about two years; in 1851, he removed to Washington Co., there started 
a store ; in about eighteen months he sold out his store and bought 100 acres of land 
and built a brewery ; he carried on this business about five years ; he then sold out the 
brewery and continued farming till 1868, when he sold his farm and removed to 
Stephenson Co. ; he now owns 185 acres of land. Married Angeline Everly, in 1852 ; 
she was born in Ohio ; they have six children — Henry, Elizabeth, Frances, Mena, 
Edward and Jacob William. Democrat in politics. 

J. H. PIERCE, farmer, Sec. 30; P. O. Freeport; born Sept. 13, 1830, in 
Clarion Co., Pa. ; in about 1842, he came to Trumbull Co., Ohio; here he was appren- 
ticed to learn the carriage trade; worked at this business about seven years; in 1854, 
he came to Stephenson Co. ; he owns 240 acres of land, well improved, with three good 
barns and other improvements. He is Superintendent of the township, has held this 
office four years. Married Miss Mary J. McKee, in 1862 ; she was born in Crawford 
Co., Penn. 

EDWIN SCOVILL,, farmer, Sec. 18; P. 0. Freeport; born Sept. 22 r 
1846, in Florence Township ; his father came to this county in about 1837, and died 
December, 1876, aged 59 years; he owns 202 acres of land. He has been Township 
Treasurer. He married Julia Roberts, Jan. 4, 1872 ; she was born in Ogle Co.; they 
have three children — Phebe, James and Elnora. 

NATHAN SHEETZ, farmer, Sec. 4 ; P. 0. Freeport; born June 21 r 
1811, in Berks Co., Penn.; May 28, 1837, he came to Stephenson Co.; he remained 
here till March 17, 1850, when he went to California ; he left California Nov. 25, 1850 r 
sailing by the way of Cape Horn; arrived here March 14, 1851, where he has since 
lived ; he owns 165 acres of land, part entered. He married Sophia Hiser, in 1834 ; she 
was born in Union Co., Penn., in 1812 ; died in 1836 ; had three children, one living — 
William. His second marriage, to Catharine Martin, occurred in 1844 ; she was born 
in 1819, in Germany ; died July 22, 1872;they had seven children, six living — George 
W., Sarah E., Robert V., Harris, Cyrus L. and Daniel M. His third marriage was to 
Mrs. Sturner, on June 17, 1875 ; she was born in Virginia ; Democrat in politics. 

GILES TURNEAURE, farmer, Sec. 17; P. 0. Freeport; born June 18, 
1829, in Genesee Co., N. Y.; in 1833 he came with his parents to Crawford Co., Penn.; 
in 1843 they came to Boone Co., 111.; in 1850 they removed to Stephenson Co.; he 
owns 80 acres of land ; is Justice of the Peace ; his brothers, Jacob M., George B. 
and William H., served in the late war. He married Sophronia C. May, Jan. 10, 1855;. 
she was born in Vermont ; they have three children — Effie S., Florence and Fred E. 
Baptist in religion ; Republican in politics. 

CONRAD VAN BROCK LIN, Sec. 17; P. 0. Freeport; he was born 
Feb. 21, 1802, in Montgomery Co., N. Y.; he died Nov. 3, 1877 ; in the fall of 1835 
he came to Kendall Co., 111.; the following spring he removed to Stephenson Co., where 
he remained till the time of his death ; he had been School Treasurer about twenty 
years, and had held about all the township offices ; they own 380 acres of land, which 
he entered. He married Harriet Searl, Jan. 1, 1832 ; she was born in South Hampton, 
Mass., Dec. 13, 1803; they had eight children, six living — Julia, Phebe C, Lucy A. r 



678 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Sarah M., James M. and Henry 0.; Marcellus died Nov. 12, 1832, aged 2 months ; 
William A. died Oct. 2, 1873, aged 36 years. 

\\ 1 1,11 ELM WILHELMS, farmer, Sec. 35 ; P. 0. Florence Station ; 
born in 1840, in Germany ; in 185tJ he came to Stephenson Co.; he owns 240 acres of 
land; has been School Director. Married Henrica De Groot in 1865; she was born 
in Germany ; they have five children — Christopher, Henry, Oltman, Christian and 
William. 

DARIUS WINTERS, farmer, Sec. 19; P. 0. Freeport; born Feb. 20, 
1838, in Kingston, Delaware Co., Ohio; in 1847, he came with his parents to Winne- 
bago Co., 111. ; in 1850, they removed to their present farm ; he owns 98 acres of land ; 
his father died in 1879, aged 76 years. Married Mary J. Cronkrite in 1868 ; she was 
born in Saratoga Co., N. Y. ; have one child, Hattie E. ; he enlisted in 1862, Co. A, 46th 
I. V. I. ; served to the end of the war ; participated in the following engagements : 
Siege of Vicksburg (here he was taken prisoner — afterward paroled), Spanish Fort, 
Blakeley, Mobile and others. 

DR. CHARLES B. WRIGHT, physician and surgeon, Sec. 17; P. 0. 
Freeport; born July 4, 1820, in Green Co., N. Y. ; at about the age of 21, he com- 
menced the study of medicine with Dr. Huyck, at Stevensville, Albany Co., N. Y. ; 
graduated at the Albany Medical College in 1849 ; in 1855, he came to Stephenson 
Co. In 1863, he was elected County Judge, to fill a vacancy; on the expiration of this 
term, he was re-elected, and held this position four years ; he was commissioned Surgeon , 
in 1861, in Fremont Body Guard; held this position till the removal of Fremont; he 
he has been Postmaster at Loran, and held other minor offices. Married Miss Augusta 
M. Shepard, daughter of Dr. Shepard, in 1840 ; she was born in Green Co., N. Y. ; 
they have one daughter, Angelia A., now Mrs. William A. Van Brocklin. Republican 
in politics. 



SILVER CREEK TOWNSHIP. 

MICHAEL BANGASSER, farmer, and proprietor Stephenson County 
Creamery, Sec. 17 ; P. 0. Freeport; born April 2, 1819, in Alsace, France ; in 1835, 
he came to Buffalo, N. Y., worked at the ship-carpenter's trade there about three years ; 
in 18J0, came to Chicago, thence to Ogle Co.; in 1843, he came to Stephenson Co. ; 
he owns 232i acres of land; he entered 40 acres; the balance of this land cost from 
$20 to $30 per acre ; he owns the only creamery in this county, and his entire time is 
devoted to this business ; his sons manage the farm ; he has been School Director about 
eighteen years. Married Mary Stable, May 16, 1843; she was born in Alsace; they 
have eight children — Cornelia, Elizabeth, Frank, Mathias, Kate, Michael, Fred and Ellen. 

JOHN BARDEL, farmer, Sec. 3; P. 0. Freeport; born Aug. 19, 1816, in 
Alsace, France ; in 1834. he came to Canada, and at that time he was in debt $15 ; he 
then commenced working on a farm, and in 1839, he came to Stephenson Co., where he 
has since lived ; he now owns about 500 acres of land and a store on Stephenson street, 
No. 81, and this large property he has accumulated since coming here. Married Philipena 
Gross in 1850 ; she was born in Prussia in 1824 ; they have three children, two living — 
Phillip and Margaret J., now Mrs. Kakelhoffer ; lost John in 1872, aged 22 years. 

CHRISTOPHER BENNETT, farmer, Sec. 29; p! 0. Baileyville ; 
born Jan. 28, 1819, in Cornwall, England ; when a boy he commenced working in the 
copper mines, and continued in this business till 1842, when he came to Galena, 111.; 
there he engaged in mining; about 1845, he came to Stephenson Co., and entered his 
land, which he owns, now consisting of 237? acres; in about 1850, he went to Cali- 
fornia ; returned the following year, where he has lived since. Married Mary 
Emmons in 1852; she was born in Ohio; they had fourteen children, eleven living, 
five sons and six daughters. 



SILVER CREEK TOWNSHIP. 679 

FRED BROCKMAIER, farmer, Sec. 26; P. 0. Baileyville ; born Nov. 
19, 1824, in Germany; iu 1848, he came, with, his parents, to Ogle Co. ; in 1867 he 
came to his present locality ; he has been one of the most successful, and is now the 
largest farmer in this township ; he owns 1,078 acres of land in this township, also 18 
acres in Ogle Co. ; his farm is well provided with good and substantial buildings ; his 
house cost about $3,000, his barn $3,500, and granary about $1,000 ; this large prop- 
erty he has accumulated since coming here. Married Angeline Borchers in 1854 : she 
was born in Germany in 1833 ; they have six children — Fred L., Deborah, Henry W., 
John F., Elizabeth and Angeline. 

WILLIAM BROKHAUSEN, farmer, Sec' 4; P. O. Freeport ; born 
July 8, 1825, in Germany ; his father being a weaver, he learned this trade and worked 
at it about three years ; in 1848, he came to Chicago ; when he landed here he was not 
worth a dollar ; he then went to Elgin and worked on a farm ; in 1851 he returned to 
Chicago and commenced to learn the distilling business ; he followed this about sixteen 
years; he then came to Stephenson Co., and has since been engaged in farming; he now 
owns about 500 acres of land, with large improvements. Married Hermena Korf, in 
1854 ; she was born in 1831, in Germauy ; they have ten children — Flora, Dora, 
Edward, Fred, Louisa, Mena, Emma, Charles, Benjamin and George. 

J. J. BURCKHARDT, farmer, Sec. 3; P. O. Freeport; born April 14, 
1846, in Baden ; in 1847, he came, with his parents, to Silver Creek Township, where 
he has since lived ; he owns 145 acres of land. Married Bertha Watcke, in 1873 ; she 
was born in Wisconsin. 

HENRY" C. BROWN, farmer, Sec. 34 ; P. O. Freeport ; born Nov. 22, 
1827, in Joliet, 111. ; in the spring of 1836, he came, with his parents, to his present 
locality ; he is the earliest settler in this township ; he owns 95 acres of land, entered by 
his mother. He married Lavina Gregory, in 1849 ; she was born in Nashville, Tenn. ; 
they have eight children — Cordelia, Jesse, Elizabeth, Charles, George, Frank. William 
and Nellie. 

A. H. COLBY, farmer, Sec. 15 ; P. O. Freeport; born Sept. 3, 1842, in 
Rochester, N. Y.; when a child, he came, with his parents, to Ashtabula Co., Ohio ; 
in 1850 they came to Stephensen Co. ; he owns 80 acres of land, valued at $5,000, 
deeded to him by his father, with these remarks : " You have always been honest, 
upright and faithful in all your dealings with me, and have never told me a falsehood or 
deceived me in any manner whatever, and, as a mark of appreciation, I deed you this 
property." He has been eight years Director and Clerk of the School Board, and is Jus- 
tice of the Peace. He enlisted in 1862 in Co. F, 92d I. V. I., and served to the end of 
the war ; a part of this time he was Clerk in the Provost Marshal's office at Chicago. 
Married Miss Ella Kendall, in 1877 ; she was born in Harlem Township ; they have one 
son; he has also a son by a former marriage — Emery B. 

GEORGE B. DIDDENS, farmer, Sec. 24 ; P. O. Freeport ; born Dec. 
26, 1855, in Silver Creek Township; his father died in 1865, aged 61 years; his 
mother lives with her son on this farm; she was born in 1813. He is School Director. 
He owns 160 acres of land. 

LLOYD G. DRAKE, farmer, Sec. 11; P. O. Freeport; born Bee. 19, 
1818, in Tioga Co., N. Y.; in 1857, he came to Belvidere, 111.; April, 1859, he re- 
moved to Stephenson Co. ; Mrs. D. owns 186 acres of land. He married Mrs. Stebbins 
in 1859; she was born in Madison Co., N. Y., April 10, 1819; came to Stephenson 
Co. in 1840 ; she has three children by a former marriage — Charles J., Anna A., now 
Mrs. Freeman, and Frances R., now Mrs. Shirk. 

HENRY DUBBERT, farmer, See. 33 ; P. O. Baileyville ; born March 27, 
1826, in Germany; in 1848, he came to Stephenson Co.; he owns 160 acres of land, 
well improved, has a very fine house, cost about $2,000, and other improvements, he 
also owns 92 acres in Ogle Co. ; he has been School Director the past fifteen years. 
Married Mena Rennaberg, March 2, 1855 ; she was born in Germany ; they have ten 
children — four sons and six daughters. 

oc 



680 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

WILLIAM EATON, farmer, Sec. 18 ; P. 0. Freeport ; born June 29, 
1806, in Otsego Co., N. Y. ; in 1841 he came to Carroll Co., and about ten years later 
he came to his present farm; he owns 80 acres land. Married Emiline Wilcox, in 
1828; she was born in Chenango Co., N. Y.. in 1808; died in 1851; have four 
children — Nelson, W. H., Melissa and Clara. His present wife was formerly Mrs. 
Wheat ; she has three children by a former marriage. 

HENRY EDER, farmer, Sec. 9; P. O. Freeport; born Jan. 22, 1844, in 
Baden ; in 1847, he came with his parents to Silver Creek Township ; he now owns 
136 acres land, with the homestead ; he enlisted in 64th Co. B, 8th I. V. I. ; served 
to the end of the war. Married Margaret Richter, in 1867 ; she was born in Germany, 
in 1844; died in 1877; have two children — John and Jacob. Second marriage to 
Christina Schlampp, Jan. 1, 1879; she was born in Baden; they have one child — 
William. 

ANDREW FIEST, farmer, Sec. 18; P. O. Freeport; born Dec. 2, 1825, 
in Germany ; in 1853, he came to Stephenson Co. ; he owns 322 acres of land. He 
married Magdeline Hooup in 1860; she was born in Germany; they have seven chil- 
dren — Josephine, Sophia, William, Mary, Joseph, John and Theressa. 

JOHN FOSHA, farmer, Sec. 35 ; P. O. Baileyville ; born Jan. 12, 1833, in 
Germany ; in 1835, he came to Maryland with his parents, in 1838, to Virginia, and 
in 1847, to Ogle Co.; in 1860, he came to his present farm, consisting of 320 acres, 
and 40 acres in Ogle Co., also 638 acres in Kansas. He married Minna Schuen- 
man in 1855 ; she was born in Hanover ; they have eight children — four sons and four 
daughters. 

JOHANN FIJLS, farmer, Sec. 26 ; P. O. Freeport ; born Jan. 14, 1800, in 
Germany; in 1853, he came to Stephenson Co.; he and his sons own 320 acres of 
land. He married Fannie Albers in 1826 ; she was born in May, 1801, in Germany ; 
they have five children — Sleffentje, Dirk, Tjke, Albert and Swantje. 

S. M. URIER, farmer, Sec. 18; P. O. Freeport; born Aug. 6, 1817, in Ly- 
coming Co., Penn. ; in 1865, he came to his present farm, consisting of 253 acres of 
land. He married Miss F. O. Stewart in 1840; she was born June, 1815, in Lyco- 
ming Co., Penn. ; they have five children-Stewart, Alexander and James (twins), Mary 
A. and William ; John H. enlisted in the 5th Penn. Beserve, and was killed at Gaines 
Hill, June, 1863. A daughter, Mrs. Mabley, died in 1879, aged 24 years. 

JACOB HERRMANN, farmer, Sec. 16; P. O. Freeport; born June 13, 

1827, in Baden; in 1852, he came to Stephenson Co.; he first worked for the 
railroad company at $1 per day ; he now owns 260 acres of land, with a good brick house 
and barn and other improvements. He married Miss M. Both, in 1859 ; she was born 
in Baden ; they had three children, one living — Charles. 

JOHN J. HEWITT, banker, residence Sec. 6; Freeport; born Feb. 15, 

1828, in Franklin Co. Penn.; at about the age ofl 5 years he came West ; in about 1854, he 
settled in Ogle Co., where he resided till 1877, when he came to his present residence ; he 
is proprietor and owner of the Farmers and Traders Bank, Foreston, Ogle Co. ; he also 
owns the largest elevator there, and has been engaged there in merchandising about 
twenty-five years. He owns about 1,500 acres improved land in Carroll, Ogle and 
Stephenson Counties, also about 6,000 acres in Iowa. Married Susan M. Emerick in 1858 ; 
she was born in 1831, in Franklin Co. Penn.; died in 1862 ; have two children — Grace,, 
now Mrs. Bosensteil, and Theodore ; lost Benjamin E. in 1879, aged 21 years. Second 
marriage, to Martha E. Hutchinson, Dec. 1872 ; she was born in Penn.; have two chil- 
dren — Beulah and Ethel. Bepublican in politics. 

JACOB HOE BEL, farmer, Sec. 12 ; P. O. Freeport ; born Sept. 29, 1821, 
in Germany. In about 1844 he came, with his father, to Logansport, Ind.; thence to 
Stephenson Co., where he has since lived. He worked for his father about fifteen years ; 
and since this time he has accumulated his present property, consisting of 160 acres of 
land, improved, with a good house, built in 1879, cost about $1,500: his barn cost 
about $600, and other good improvements ; has been School Director. Married Eliza- 



SILVER CREEK TOWNSHIP. 681 

beth Weiogart in 1847 ; she was bora in Germany in 1828 they have six children — 
John, Jacob, Katharine, George, Louis and Mary. 

M. W. HOL, LINGS WORTH, farmer, Sec. 30 ; P. 0. Freeport ; born 
Feb. 7, 1817, in Hartford, Md.; there he learned the carpenter's trade; worked at it 
about twenty years ; in 1836 he came to Galena; thence to Savannah ; in 1839 he came 
to Carroll Co., where he made and improved four farms; in 1865, he came to his 
present farm. He owns 191 acres of land; has been School Director, Township Superin- 
tendent, and Commissioner, in Carroll Co. Married Ophelia Foote in 1840; she was 
born in Chittenden Co., Vt. ; have five children — Mary, Hiram, Ellen, Charles and 
Alice. 

ALEX JOHNSTON, farmer, Sec. 7 ; P. 0. Freeport; born Dec. 8, 1836, 
near Glasgow, Scotland ; when a child he came, with his parents, to Berks Co., Penn.; 
was employed by Atkins Bros, as traveling agent and prospecting, opening mines, etc.; 
he held this position till 1878, when he came to his present farm, consisting of 73 acres 
of land. Married Emma Ramsey in 1868 ; she was born in Lancaster Co., Penn.; they 
have three children — James T., Ivie and Elsie. 

JOSEPH KACHELHOFFER, farmer, Sec. 15 ; P. 0. Freeport; born 
Nov. 19, 1846, in Buffalo N. Y. ; in 1852 he came, with his parents, to Stephenson Co.; 
his father died July 2, 1880 ; he had been one of the most successful business men in 
this township, acquiring a property, which he owned at the time of his death, of 828 
acres of improved land in this township, also 400 acres in Iowa ; on coming to this 
county he first engaged in the brewing business, and carried on a wagon and blacksmith 
shop; this he sold out, and engaged in farming. His mother died in 1876, aged 60 
years and 4 months. He married Mary M. Able in 1875; she was born in Buffalo 
N. Y., in 1851 ; they have four children — John W., Emma R., Charles J. and 
Edward L. 

C. M. KNAPP, farmer, Sec. 32 ; P. 0. Baileyville ; born Aug. 9, 1812, in 
Luzerne Co., Pa.; in 1857, he came to Stephenson Co.; he owns 170 acres of land. 
Married Amy Cole in 1835; she was born in Bradford Co., Pa.. Oct. 2, 1807 ; they 
had three children, two living — Samuel H. and Laura (now Mrs. Carpenter). Charles 
M. enlisted in 1862, in the 92d I. V. I.; died, Jan., 1864, from a wound received when 
riding a horse. Samuel H. enlisted in 1863, in the 61st I. V. I.; was discharged on account 
of sickness. 

F. P. KOEHLER, farmer, Sec. 5 ; P. 0. Freeport; born May 18, 1817, in 
Bavaria; he followed butchering till 1833, when he came to Seneca Co., Ohio, and 
continued the butcher business in Tiffin, Ohio; in 1837, he came to Ft. Wayne, Ind.; 
in 1839, to Joliet, 111.; in 1841, he came to Freeport and commenced the livery and 
butcher business ; carried on this till 1849 ; he then opened a hotel, run it till 1853, then 
returned to butchering; continued in this business till 1863, when he came to his 
present farm ; he owns 130 acres of land, also property in Freeport. Married Margaret 
Boyer in 1844; she was born in 1826, in Bavaria; they have eight children — Fred, 
Jacob B., Herman L., Louisa, Hannah, Albert D., William H. and Edward H.; lo?t 
three children in infancy. 

HENRY KRUSE, farmer, Sec. 32;'P. O. Baileyville; born March 9, 1827, 
in Ostsfriesland, Germany ; in 1853, he came to Stephenson Co.; he owns 280 acres of 
land, improved, with a fine brick house, built in 1876, cost, S3, 200, and other fine im- 
provements. Married Miss Tjakemiua Collmann in 1855; she was born in Ostsfries- 
land, Germany, in 1831 ; they have six children — Elina, Sarah D., Tebbo, William, 
Emma and Nettie. 

RERNHARD LAHOI, farmer, Sec. 18; P. O. Freeport; born July 28, 
1835, in Baden, Germany ; in 1854, he came to Stephenson Co.; he owns 100 acres of 
land ; he learned the trade of wa»;on-making, and has worked at his business about 
twenty years ; has been Township Assessor. Married Theresa Lamm in 1871 ; she was 
born in Stephenson Co.; they have four children — Verika, Julia, Helena and Ida. 



682 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

JOSEPH LAMM, farmer, Sec. 11 ; P. 0. Freeport ; bom May 12, 1835, 
in Erie Co., Buffalo, N. Y.; in about 1837, he came with his parents to Stephenson Co.; 
soon after coining, his father purchased several yoke of oxen and engaged in teaming ; 
he hauled grain from Dubuque, Galena and Freeport, to Chicago, bringing merchan- 
dise in return ; he and his brother Godfrey assisted their father at this business ; their 
usual load was about 100 bushels, driving from five to six yoke of oxen ; the time occu- 
pied would be from ten days to three weeks; his father died December, 1879, aged 77 
years ; he owns 160 acres of land, well-improved, also a steam thrashing machine, which 
cost about $1, 400, the first in the township, his business being farming and thrashing. He 
ried Louisa Dilly in 1857 ; she was born in Germany ; have six children — George, John 
Theresa, Amelia, Augusta and Albert. 

AARON LONG, farmer, Sec. 15 ; P. O. Freeport; born July 10, 1845, in 
Dauphin Co., Penn.; in 1849, he came with his parents, to Stephenson Co.; he owns 
120 acres of land ; has been School Director. His father died Sept. 21, 1874, aged 56 
years. Married Miss F. Kuenneth, Jan. 1, 1871 ; she was born in Germany; they 
have four children — A. E., Mary A., Frances R. and Emma C. 

NATHANIEL LONG, farmer, Sec. 14; P. O. Freeport; born Jan. 12, 
1849, in Dauphin Co., Penn. ; when an infant, he came with his parents to Stephenson 
Co., where he has since lived. His father died Sept. 18, 1874, aged 57 years ; they 
own 180 acres of land. Married Mary A. Ambrewster, March 30, 1880; she was born 
in Canada. 

J. S. REISINGER, farmer, Superintendent of County Poor Farm, Sec. 7; 
P. O. Freeport ; born Feb. 20, 1836, in Trumbull Co., Ohio ; in 1855, he came West, 
with his parents, and has since lived in Carroll, Ogle and Stephenson Cos. He was 
elected to his present position in 1876. Married Rebecca Hulse, in 1858; she was 
born in Trumbull Co., Ohio; they had seven children; four are living — Clara A., 
Lizzie E., Sarah A. and Lydia A. Republican in politics. 

JACOB RICE, farmer, Sec. 17 ; P. O. Freeport; born March 23, 1819, in 
Indiana Co., Penn.; in 1845, he came to Galena, thence to Wisconsin ; in 1851, he 
came to Freeport, where he has lived till 1876, when he removed to his present farm ; 
he learned the carpenter's trade, and has worked at it about forty years ; he owns 40 
acres of land. Married Mary Walton in 1853 ; she was born in Ohio; they have four 
children — Ida, Adella, John and Theressa ; he has one son by a former marriage — 
Charles E. 

CHARLES SCHOETTLE, farmer, Sec. 11; P. O. Freeport; born 
Oct. 6, 1807 in Baden, Germany; June, 1833, he came to New York City and carried 
on the tailoring trade there about ten years ; he then removed to Rensselaer Co., N. Y.; 
carried on tailoring till 1852, when he came to Freeport ; here he carried on this business 
till 1854, when he came to his present farm ; he owns 170 acres of land, well improved. 
Married Catharine Butz, October, 1833; she was born in Baden, March, 1813; they 
have eight children — Catharine, Mary A., Emeline, Charles, Josephine, Frank A., 
Antoinette and Theo. 

S. J. STEBBINS, farmer, Sec. 2; P. O. Freeport; born Sept. 21, 1813, 
in Lebanon, Madison Co , N. Y. ; in 1836, he came to Stephenson Co., where he has 
since lived ; he is one of the oldest settlers in this township; he owns 354 acres of laud, 
which he entered ; he has held about all the township offices. Married Jane Stearns, 
in 1838 ; she was born in St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., July 22, 1817 ; they had seven 
children, four living — Abbie, Adelbert, Homer F. and Warren ; Joel died Sept. 28, 
1863, aged 23 years; Emma J. died Oct. 7, 1863, aged 15 years, and James H. died 
in September, 1876, aged 21 years. 

NICHOLAS STEFFEN, farmer, Sec. 21 ; P. 0. Freeport; born March 
10, 1836, in Prussia ; in 1840. he came with his parents to Chicago ; his father started 
a store here ; he assisted in the store till about the age of 14, when he commenced to 
learn the printer's trade ; he worked at it about three years ; in 1853, he came to 
Freeport and commenced manufacturing cigars ; this he continued till 1872, when he 



HARLEM TOWNSHIP. 683 

came to this locality; he works 220 acres of land, owned by his father-in-law's estate. 
Married Magdalena Kachelhoffer, in 1859 ; she was born in Buffalo, N. Y. ; they have 
ten children — Nicholas M., Augustus, Eleanor, Emma, Matilda, Charles, Rosa, Edward, 
Clara and Cecelia. 

GEORGE STENZHORN, farmer, Sec. 11 ; P. 0. Freeport; born April 
2, 1831, in Germany; in 1850 he came to Stephenson Co.; he owns 150 acres of land, 
well improved ; has been School Director. Married Rosa Lippman in 1854; she was 
born in 1837, in Germany; they have five children — George, Peter, Rosena, Kate and 
Elizabeth ; Margaret died in 1872, aged 17 years ; Henry died in 1876, aged 9 years. 

MENE VANLOH, farmer, Sec. 32 ; P. 0. Baileyville ; born March, 1829, 
in Germany; in 1855 he came to Stephenson Co.; he owns 295 acres of land. Married 
Catherine Bohen, in 1855 ; she was horn in Germany; they have six children—Lizzie, 
Jennie, John, George, Katie and Tillie. 

CAPT. WILLIAM YOTNG, farmer, Sec. 6 ; P. 0. Freeport; born 
Feb. 9, 1820, in Union Co. Penn. ; in 1839 he came to Stephenson Co., where he has 
since lived ; on coming to this county he entered about 400 acres ; he now owns about 
600 acres of land. He raised a company and was commissioned Captain in 1862, in Co. 
G, 46th T. V. I. ; was wounded at the battle of Shiloh, for which he receives a pen- 
sion ; he was elected County Treasurer in 1863, held this office one term ; he has also 
been Supervisor of Lancaster Township. Married Miss Ann Reitzell, in 1857 ; she was 
born in Lancaster Co., Penn. ; they have six children — James H., John C, Jonathan 
R., Sarah, Elizabeth and Mary. Mr. Young is a Republican in politics. 



HARLEM TOWNSHIP. 

CHARLES W. BARBER, farmer, Sec. 13; P. 0. Freeport; Charles 
and Robert, with the rest of James W. Barber's family, live on the old estate, which 
their father bought of Joseph Green, in 1843 ; the family number ten — Charles W., 
born Oct. 22, 1823; Sarah B., born Oct. 29, 1825 ; Thomas, born June 12, 1827 ; 
Robert, born Sept. 13, 1829 ; Mary, born Nov. 20, 1831 ; Hannah, born Feb. 7, 
1834; Amelia, born June 29, 1836; Eleanor, born May 19, 1839; Benjamin, born 
June 3, 1841, and Susan, born Oct. 13, 1843; the last was born in this county, the 
others in Pennsylvania ; Charles W., the eldest, and Robert now own the farm, con- 
sisting of 320 acres, valued at $50 an acre. They were convinced, a short time after 
taking the farm in hand, that there was more money in stock than small grain, so sold 
off their inferior breeds, and now have the broad acres of the paternal estate feeding 
Clydesdale horses and full-blood short-horns. The two boys and Mary, Hannah and 
Ellen are at home now ; Sarah B. married 0. P. McCool, and lives on an adjoining 
farm. The boys are Republicans, and have held both township and school offices. 

HEXRY S. BARBER, farmer and lumberman, Sec. 13 ; P. 0. Freeport; 
born in Union Co., Penn., in Dec. 27, 1818 ; left Pennsylvania April 18, 1837, with a 
party whose names were Dr. Van Valzeh, Joseph Green, son of Gen. Green, Carpenter 
Miller, Henry S. Barber, John Fisher, Jr., John Glover, Jr., Nathan and Israel Sheets; 
they were seven weeks coming out ; their route was through to Pittsburg, then south 
through Washington Co., crossing the Ohio at Wheeling, took the National Road 
and passed Zanesville and Columbus, Ohio, Richmond, Ind., Indianapolis, crossed the 
Wabash at Covington, and saw the first prairie, then passed through Danville and came to 
Peoria, on the Illinois River, then to Dixon, Buffalo Grove, Crane's Grove, just six miles 
south of Freeport ; in Freeport the only cabin they saw belonged to William Baker ; 
they then made their own road, eighteen miles to Rock Grove, passed two old cabins 
belonging to Dr. Van Valzeh and the Widow Wilcoxen, arrived at Rock Grove on 
May 30, 1837. Henry S. Barber remained eighteen months, and then went back to 
Pennsylvania, and in 1839, brought fourteen teams with him. There were " Joseph 



684 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Mercer's, Benjamin Chambers', Peter D. Fisher's, George Fisher's James McElhaney's, 
Grandfather Sheets', Charles W. Cummings', Robert Barber's, beside John Fisher, Jr.. 
Harry Klapp and James Chambers and wife." Henry S. then set to work improving 
the farm at Rock Grove ; lived there till 1850 ; went to Monroe, Wis., and was in town 
seven years ; then put up a saw-mill run by steam, seven miles west of Monroe, and 
kept that seven years ; sold out and then moved into this county to Rock Run ; was 
there from 1863 to 1868, then moved to this farm on Sec 13; owns now 160 acres, 
value $60 per acre. Has been Justice of the Peace and Supervisor ; is a Republican. 
He was married in 1842, to Miss Mary Fisher, of Union Co., Penn.; they have six chil- 
dren ; two married ; Lewis and Frank are now dead, and Ashley, Lizzie C. and 
Charles F. are alive. Henry S.'s father, Robert Barber, with Dr. Van Valzeh, Gen. 
Green, and Judge Schnable, came to see and bought claims in 1836 ; one of these 
claims embraces the mill site of the present Cedar Creek Mills, which the Doctor built 
during the summer of 1837, and run that winter; he then sold half-interest to his 
brother-in-law, Joseph Green, and they bought Sec. 13, Township 2 north, and Range 
7 west, of William Robey. Green took the east half, and the Doctor the west, and in 

1841, built the house where Henry S. Barber now lives; the Doctor moved East in 

1842, and died in Lewistown, Mifflin Co., Penn., in the year 1870, May 6. He was 
the second practicing physician in Stephenson Co.; the Doctor's sons are all physiciat-S, 
Howard, Robert and John, and David is in the regular army. 

GEORGE J. BENTLEY, farmer, Sec. 27; P. 0. Freeport ; born in 
Winslow, Stephenson Co., 111., Feb. 26, 1858 ; moved to his present home in 1859, 
with his father, where he has been since, and is now farming the old place of 380 acres, 
valued at $55 per acre. George's father, C. N. Bentley, was born July 24, 1827, in 
the State of Massachusetts; he moved to New York in 1829, to Chautauqua Co., and 
left there in 1853, and came to this county, settling near Shannon, soon after moving 
to Winslow ; about this time he took a trip to Des Moines, Iowa ; when he came back, 
in 1859, he had a yoke of oxen and one horse; from 1858 to 1859 the family had a 
very hard time of it, but after settling here, where they at present live, he has prospered, 
and acquired this valuable property. He is a Democrat. In 1845, he married Miss 
Electa Smith, of New York, who is three years his senior ; the old family consists of 
eight children — Lewis D., Jennie L., Alvey, and one died before it was christened, 
George J., Lidia, Charles and Viola, of whom only three are living. Lewis D. enlisted 
and served three years in Co. D, 46th I. V. I., ; came home in 1865, and in June 
was thrown from a horse and killed. Jennie is married to H. B. Price, and lives also 
on the old farm. George J., who now has charge of the farm, was married Feb. 26, 
1879, to Miss Lily K. Barton, of Jo Daviess Co., 111. He is in politics a Democrat; his 
father, Cecil N., has held several public offices, Commissioner of the Highways for nine 
years, School Director and School Trustee. 

E. BENNETT, farmer and manufacturer, Sec. 18; P. O. Elroy ; born in 
Somerset Co., England, May 26, 1824 ; until 18 years of age he farmed and worked in 
woolen mills; in 1842 he sailed for America; on reaching New York he engaged at 
his trade, and in farming ; he at different times worked in Onandaga, Oneida and Mad- 
ison ; worked in the woolen factory at Baldwinsville until coming West ; after arriving 
in Illinois he worked rented places till he was able to buy ; he then bought the farm on 
which he now lives, embracing 122 broad acres under fine cultivation, valued at $50 an 
acre. In politics he is a Republican. Married Miss Livinia Phelps, of New York, in 
January, 1852. They had five children — Emma, Charles, Mary, Clara and Hattie, 
all at home ; his wife died in 1871. 

LIDWIG BROEND, farmer, Sec. 32 ; P. 0. Freeport ; was born in Ger- 
many, April 12, 1827, and worked on the farm in the old country until 25 years of 
age ; he then left for America in 1852, and without any further delay came to Stephen- 
son Co., 111., and has lived here since, a period of twenty-eight years. The farm he 
owns at present consists of 160 acres of highly improved and carefully tilled soil, 40 
acres of which he has cleared of timber himself; the probable value to-day, about $50 an 
acre; since settling in Stephenson Co. he has held some school offices. Is a Democrat 



HARLEM TOWNSHIP. 685 

in politics, and belongs to the Presbyterian Church. On the 4th of October, 1855, he 
married Miss Mary Frubel, a native of Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany ; they have six chil- 
dren — Lui, Kate, Henry, Mary, Frederick, and one not christened. 

HENRY BURKARD, farmer and wagon-maker, Sec. 14 ; P. 0. Free- 
port ; born in Baden, Germany, 2d July, 1837 ; at the age of 10, his father and family 
came to America ; without delay they moved on to the West, and on the 4th of July 
camped near Yellow Creek Brewery, and on the 5th of July, 1847, settled on the farm 
which his father bought of the Government ; as soon he was old enough he learned the 
wagon-maker's trade, and opened a shop of his own, which he run eight years ; he went 
up to Minnesota, but soon returned, when he went to Missouri, then to Kansas, and 
soon came back to Missouri again, into Platte Co.; went to making wagon trains con- 
sisting of twenty-eight wagons to the train, bought by parties going to Pike's Peak ; 
the war of the rebellion stopped him, and, after going to Tennessee, he returned to 
Stephenson Co.; this trip lasted from 1859 to 1861. After his father's death he took 
the farm ; he now owns 80 acres, valued at $40 per acre ; he has been Collector and 
Assessor ; has held school offices. Is now a Democrat, and belongs to the Catholic 
Church. Mr. Burkard married Miss Magdalena Jaeger in 1861 ; they were married 
at her home; she and her parents are natives of Germany; Mr. and Mrs.^Burkard 
had six children — John A., Frank L., Margaret K., Eva M., Joseph H. and Anna 
L.; the last one has been dead two years. 

THOMPSON W. COCKRELL, farmer, and proprietor of Scioto Flour- 
ing Mills, Sec. 11 ; P. 0. Freeport ; born in Ohio, Sciota Co., Sept. 11, 1823 ; he was 
a farmer in his native State, and started for the West on July 1, 1841 ; stayed one win- 
ter in Jersey Co., 111., then came here, and, beside the mill property, owns 450 acres of 
land, valued at $40 an acre ; he has held township and school offices. Is a Kepublican, 
having cast his first vote for James K. Polk. Mr. Cockrell has never married. His 
father, a native of Virginia, had a family of nine children — T. Moses, George, Mary 
(now married to Mr. Bodkin), Scynthia, Thompson, Harriet and Patsie Jones ; beside 
these, two stayed in Ohio — Susan and Lina. Mr. Cockrell came into full possession of the 
flouring mills in 1855 ; the Scioto Flouring Mills are 40x50 feet on the ground, three 
and a half stories high, and have three runs of stone — one for feed and two for custom- 
work ; the water-power is an Eclipse turbine wheel, ten-horse power, thirty inches in 
diameter, with a capacity of grinding eight bushels an hour ; the mill was built by Rezin 
Wilcoxon, William Irvin and Samuel Sutherland ; building commenced in 1850, and it 
started on the 1st of January, 1852 ; in 1853, Mr. Irvin sold his interest to Samuel 
Sutherland ; Rezin Wilcoxon dying near the close of 1853, Mr. Cockrell pur- 
chased his interest in the flouring mill in the year 1854, and in 1855 Samuel Suther- 
land sold his interest to Mr. Cockrell, and he has full possession of the mill property up 
to the present date ; there is a saw-mill run by the same power ; it was built in 1837 by 
Levi Rezin and Thompson Wilcoxon, and was running in August of the same year ; it is 
20x50 feet, with one up-and-down saw, capable of turning out 2,000 feet a day of hard- 
wood lumber ; Levi sold his interest in 1841 to his brother Rezin, and, on the division 
of his estate among the heirs, the ?aw-mill was left to Thermuthis, who has possession 
now. 

THOMAS EWING, farmer, Sec. 21 ; P. O. Freeport ; born in Washing- 
Co., Penn., near Pittsburg, Feb. 5, 1818 ; stayed at home till 18 years of age, then went 
to Holmes Co., Ohio; in 1836 he engaged in the mercantile and grain business; 
he started for Freeport in Nov., 1848, where he stayed, giving his attention to mer- 
cantile pursuits ; in 1860, he went on to a farm, near Shannon, Carroll Co., 111. ; he was 
there four years ; sold out and bought a farm here, one and a half miles north, called the 
Waddle farm, but, liking this farm better, bought it of Hiram Bright, and is now work- 
ing it ; the farm contains 142 acres, valued at $60 per acre ; he has held township and 
school offices. Is a Republican, and has been ever since the party was organized. Mr. 
Ewing joined the Presbyterian Church when 18 years old, in Washington Co., Penn., and 
in May, 1840, married Miss Sarah Haughey, Steubenville, Jefferson Co., Ohio; they 
have had six children— Julia A., William T., John A., Sarah E., Mary O. and Flo Ewing. 



686 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Mr. EwiDg's father is of Irish extraction, and came to Chester Co., Penn.,when 7 years 
of age ; here he grew to manhood, and was married to Miss Sarah Mathews, who was a 
native of Chester. His mother is now dead, but his father is a hale, hearty old man of 
90 years of age. 

CHRISTIAN FETZER, farmer, Sec. 4 ; P. 0. Damascus ; born in Wur- 
temberg, Germany, Feb. 20, 1836; emigrated to America in 1848; stayed in Chi- 
cago one year, and came to Freeport, Stephenson Co., 111., in 1837 ; he helped his 
father, who was a mason by trade, for two years, then moved on the farm, where his 
father died in 1878 ; Christian now owns 88J acres, valued at $45 an acre; he has 
held township and school offices. Is a Democrat, and belongs to the Lutheran Reformed 
Church. In May, 1869, he married Miss Elizabeth Weitzel, of Pennsylvania ; 
they have three children — Mary, Delia and Frederick ; Mr. Fetzer enlisted in the 46th 
I. V. I. in 1862, and was mustered out in 1865 ; he participated in the battles of Jack- 
son, Miss., Ft. Blakeley, and a number of lively skirmishes ; there were eighty-five 
killed of his regiment at Jackson ; he came through without a scratch. 

C. H. EURRY, farmer, Sec. 35; P. 0. Freeport; born near Catawissa, Col- 
umbia Co., Penn., Oct. 8, 1824 ; is a farmer of the old Pennsylvania type ; is now liv- 
ing on the Emanuel Witter place, which embraces a beautiful and fertile piece of land 
of 160 acres ; he has just ceased serving his district as their popular and efficient School 
Director. As a public man, he has always been of Republican principles. In June, 
1851, he married Miss Barbara Stroup, of Pennsylvania; this union was blessed with 
six children — Alfred, William, Mary, Ann Alida, Joseph, Franklin L. and Clin- 
ton D. 

CHARLES A. HART, farmer, Sec. 8 ; P. 0. Freeport ; born near Eger- 
mon, Mass., Jan. 9, 1835 ; left home in 1842 for Ohio ; his father's family numbered 
eight, of whom only his brother L. H. and himself, are in Illinois ; they were named 
Sarah, Newton, Julia, Solomon, Lorenzo, Mary J., Charles A. and one now dead ; they 
stayed in Ohio until 1854, when he came to this county; stayed in Freeport, working 
by the month until 1865, when he married Miss Amanda M. Doebler, on the 22d of 
September ; they have three children — U. Rosetta, N. DeWitt and Clifton D. Mr. 
Hart is a Democrat, and has held township and school offices ; he belongs to the United 
Brethren Church, at Elroy ; he owns about 100 acres of land, valued at $50 per acre. 

PHILIP HERRBRUCK, farmer, Sec. 8 ; P. 0. Damascus ; born in 
Bavaria, Germany, May 9, 1818; he was a farmer in the Fatherland, and served one 
year and six months in the army ; left there for this country Nov. 18, 1847, at the age 
of 29 years ; he stopped in New York, then went to Pennsylvania, and stayed till about 
1859; he was in Lehigh, Northampton and Monroe Cos., farming there; came here, 
and settled down in 1859 ; owns 174 acres in Sees. 4, 5 and 8, probable value $35 per 
acre. He is a Democrat, and belongs to the German Reformed Church. Mr. Herr- 
bruck, in 1850, married Miss Maria Decker; this was during his stay in Bethlehem, 
Northampton Co., Penn. ; she is a native of Germany, and had come to this country 
two years before he did ; they had nine children ; the first one died without a name ; 
the others were Ottilea, Louisa, Henry, Susanna, Adeline, Andrew, Louis and Kate. 

HENRY HILL, farmer, Sec. 32 ; P. 0. Freeport ; born in Mecklenburg 
Schwerin, Germany, the 21st of June, 1827 ; emigrated to America in 1866, in January ; 
stayed in New York seven years, and .came to Stephenson Co., 111., in 1873, where he 
has been since busily improving his farm, consisting of 80 acres, which he values at 
about $50 per acre. In politics he is a Democrat, and is a member of the Lutheran 
Church, in Freeport. He married Miss Sophia Peck, in December of the year 1873, 
and their family now consists of four children — John, Fred, William and Sophia. 

JOSEPH HUTMACHER, farmer and carpenter, Sees. 8 and 17; P. O. 

Freeport ; born at Chestnut Hill, Monroe Co., Penn., 28th of Noyember , 1830 ; stayed 
at home and farmed and worked in father's saw-mill until 26 years of age. He married 
in 1853, when 22 ; his wife died in 1866, January, four years after coming to Illinois. 
He arrived in Stephenson Co. April 22,1856 : lived in township of Erin first, then on an 



HARLEM TOWNSHIP. 687 

old farm west of his present home, on what is now Adam Hutmacher's farm, of 40 acres ; 
he sold out there and bought his present farm of 160 acres, valued at $45 per acre. 
He is a Democrat in politics and German Reform iu religion. Has held the office of 
Collector of Taxes, been Assessor for six years, and is Supervisor now, which office he 
has held for four years, and also School Treasurer, for six years ; his first appointment 
was March 9, 1864. Mr. Hutmacher married his second wife June 22, 1862; they 
were married in this township, in the old house on the Adam Hutmacher place ; his 
wife's maiden name was Mary Ann Whiteside, of Northamton Co., Penn.; they have 
had twelve children — William, Mahlou, Alfred, Adam, Helena, Thomas, James, Eliza r 
Alta, Isabel, Tidas, Julia. His pareuts are now living, at the advanced age of 75 and 
76 years, in Pennsylvania, and his wife's mother lives in Waddams. 

ABRAHAM JERMAKT, farmer, Sec. 26; P. 0. Freeport; born in North- 
ampton Co., Penn., March 24, 1813; he left his native county in 1831, at the age of 
18, and after stopping awhile in Mountour Co., came to Stephenson Co., 111., in 1862 ; 
he is farming his 72 acres, which he bought on coming here, valued at about $55 an 
acre. He has held school offices, and in politics he is a Republican ; belongs to the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. He married first, in 1836, and again in 1847 ; his present 
wife was formerly Miss Barbara Howland ; they have had but one child — Ellen E. 

CHRISTIAN KIESTER, farmer, P. 0. Freeport; born in Union Co., 
Penn., 30th of March, 1837; he stayed at his childhood's home until he was 7 years 
of age, and in 1844, in the spring, struck out for the West, and came to Stephenson Co., 
111., where he bought a farm of 160 acres, in Sec. 32, his present home ; the improve- 
ments he has made on the land make the probable value $50 per acre ; when the war 
broke out he enlisted, in 1861, in Co. E., 45th I. V. I., commonly called the Leadmine 
Regiment ; he participated in the battles of Shiloh, Raymond, Champion Hills, siege of 
Vicksburg, and several skirmishes ; was disabled, and then went to Rock Island on guard 
duty ; finally mustered out at Washington, Sept. 22, 1864. In Oct. 1864, he married 
Miss Maria Fox, of York Co., Penn.; no children. 

<; EORGE KOHL Sr., farmer, Sec. 28 ; P. O. Freeport; born in Pike Co., 
Penn., Sept. 20, 1813; stayed at home until he was 18 years of age, and went to 
Lycoming Co., in 1831 ; engaged in farming during his stay of nineteen years there, 
when he moved to Stephenson Co., 111., in 1850, in the month of May; he has been 
engaged since in farming a large farm, which he owns, of 310 acres, located on Sees. 27, 
28 and 30, and valued at about $40 per acre. During his eventful life he has held 
both township and school offices. He is a Republican, and belongs to the Presbyterian 
Church. He married Miss Mary Will, at her home in Lycoming Co., Penn., in 1836, 
on the 18th of September. Children of his family, nine altogether, were Daniel, Ben- 
jamin, George W., Susanna, Nancy, Mary, Joseph, Nicolas and Samuel, now dead. 

GEORGE W. KOHL, farmer, Sec. 30; P. O. Freeport; born in Penn- 
sylvania, July 12, 1847; came to Stephenson Co., 111., with his father, in 1850, at the 
age of 3 years; he has occupied his present farm ever since settlement, having 200 
acres, which he values at $40 per acre. His politics are Republican. In April, 1870, 
he married Miss Louisa Herbruck ; they have two children, named Harvey and Mary. 
George, like his father, has held both township and school offices. He also enlisted in 
the 142d I. V. L, Co. E., and served three months. 

AARON KOSTENBADEN, farmer, Sec. 17; P. O. Freeport; born in 
Columbia Co., Penn., March 22, 1817; left there in 1823, and went to Union Co., 
where he stayed till 23 years of age ; went, in 1840, to Hancock Co., Ohio ; from there 
to Seneca Co., where he worked at cabinet-work, and has made all his own furniture; 
is now making his sons'. He stayed in Seneca Co. until coming here ; he was a single 
man when he arrived in Stephenson Co., 111., November of 1845 ; he then returned to 
his native State, in 1846, and, in 1847, returned to Illinois, and, in the fall, married 
Miss Margaret Newcomb, of Pennsylvania ; the marriage took place four miles from 
the city of Freeport, at her home, now called the Reasoner farm; after 17 years of 
married life, his wife died, in May, 1864 ; he has since been a widower. He owns 334 



688 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES; 

acres, valued at $60 per acre ; near his house, he has one of the best stone-quarries in 
the State, if properly opened ; curious to say, he has been on the farm without inter- 
mission for twenty-six years, except a visit to Cedarville of three years. His politics 
are Republican ; Fremont was his first candidate. He belongs to the German Reform 
Church. It is a curious fact, that his father had a family of ten boys, all alive, and the 
oldest is now 70. Of his present neighbors, Murdaugh came before he did two years, and 
Flausburg one year. He had eight children by his marriage — Samuel, Susanna, Lizzie, 
Henry, Jacob, Reuben, Daniel and Solomon. Samuel, his oldest, in October, 1875, 
married Miss Mary Ann Crow; he is a carpenter and farmer; built his own house (and 
owns 40 acres in Sec. 16) ; Samuel and his wife are at John Smallwood's house; she is 
a native of this State; they have two children named Laura Mabel and Aaron. 

LEVI LAW, farmer, Sec. 9; P. 0. Cedarville; born in Lebanon Co., Penn.. 
Dec. 13, 1824; came to Stephenson Co. in 1856; from 18 years of age he has followed 
milling; when he came here he run the Scioto Flouring Mills for eight years ; then, his 
health failing, he bought this farm, in 1865, and moved into the house in 1866 ; owns 
70 acres, valued at $50 per acre ; with the help of his boys has carved his fair acres 
from the dark forest ; the people of the township made him Road Commissioner ; he 
has also held school offices. In politics a Republican, and belongs to the Lutheran 
Reform Church. In 1846, he married Miss Rebecca Dierweicher, of Pennsylvania; 
they had six children — William J., now in Iowa; Amanda A., Roland M., John H., 
Jerome F. and Aaron A., now in Iowa, married, and one child. Mr. Law had two 
brothers in the army ; Henry S. was taken prisoner on Missionary Ridge and starved 
to death in Andersonville ; John, with his family, now lives in Cedarville, Buckeye 
Township. 

MARTIN L A WLESS, farmer, Sec. 4 ; P. O. Damascus ; born in Ireland 
County of Dublin, in 1822, Feb. 3, within seven miles of the city of Dublin; sailed 
from Ireland for New York, in 1848, and went to work for Harvey Otis, of Kingston, 
Ulster Co. ; stayed with him five years, then went to Freeport, where he stayed until 
he went to work Col. Putnam's farm near the city, where he was for six years, then for 
five more on Elias Perkins' place ; he moved from there to his present home, about the 
year 1865 ; his farm embraces 75 broad acres, valued at $15. He has held township and 
school offices. In politics a Democrat, and belongs to the Roman Catholic Church. In 
1847, on the 3d of October, he married Miss Mary DeLap, of Ireland ; they have six 
children living — John, Hubert, Martin, William, George and Charles; George is a 
teacher; in the summer he works the farm, and in winter teaches school. 

OLIVER P. McCOOL, Sec. 24; P. 0. Freeport; born in Union Co., 
Penn., Aug. 29, 1820; he came to Stephenson Co., in 1840, with his father, Joseph 
McCool ; they took a boat at Pittsburg, Penn., and lauded at a place named Keithsburg, 
consisting of two or three cabins ; it has since been the county seat ; during the summer 
they were there, Dr. Van Valzeh. who was running for the Legislature, came down 
there and induced them to go to Stephenson Co., where they arrived in October, 1840 ; 
Lancaster Township was their first location; then moved on to Sec. 13, Harlem; were 
there from 1840 to 1843, when they settled on the land where they now live. Joseph 
McCool was a public man, and served as Sheriff of Stephenson Co., and died in 1844, 
Feb. 14, while in office ; his wife is now living with Oliver P., on the old place, at the 
ripe old age of 87 years ; their family consisted of nine children ; eldest son now lives in 
Freeport; Eliza Ann, now wife of Robert Bell, lives in Freeport; three daughters — 
Jane, Lucretia and Margaret — are in Fayette Co., Iowa;« Mary Foster is a widow and 
lives in Madison, Wis.; Henrietta is dead, and James, the youngest, is now an engineer 
on the railroad ; Oliver P. has a farm now of 110 acres, valued at $60 an acre ; he has 
been a public man all his life; first served in Lancaster Township, when the present 
part of Harlem, where he lives, belonged to that township ; has been Overseer 
of Highways, Trustee, two terms Board of Supervisors ; his second term was served 
in 1867; in 1873, was County Treasurer, and again in 1875. He married Miss S. B. 
Barber, of Union Co., Penn., May 2, 1854; their family numbers eight children, one 
is dead — Susan B., lives with the Barber family ; James B., Nellie, Emily B., Joseph, 



HARLEM TOWNSHIP. 689 

Henrietta and Charles B., all at home. Mr. McCool is a Democrat, and used to belong- 
to the M. E. Church. Mr. McCool's father was born in Rockridsje Co. Va., in the 
immediate vicinity of the great Natural Bridge, May 25, 1794 ; when a boy be removed 
to Bowling Green, Warren Co., Ky., and grew up to manhood there; by this time he 
had traveled some, and had seen the effects of slavery ; he made up his mind never to 
make his home in a slave country ; when a young man, he went to Union Co. Penn., and 
married there, March 18, 1818, to Miss Eleanor Nevins, who was born in Union Co., 
Penn., Oct 29, 1793 ; Mr. McCool died Feb. 14, 1844; Mrs. McCool is still living with 
her son, at the age of 87 years. 

EDWARD MARTIN, farmer, Sec. 17 ; P. 0. Freeport ; born in En- 
gland, Jan. 10, 1827 ; came to America with his father in the spring of 1849, and 
traveled with the family to Chicago by team, and on to Stephenson Co., 111.: at Albert 
Hall's tavern, got out before daybreak and went on to the old Tisdale Tavern, or what 
was known as Pleasant Hill, and got his breakfast, then went on to Waddams Grove, 
and went to work ; here he earned his first dollar, and from this start has gone on until 
he bought himself a farm in 1854, of 40 acres, valued at $50 per acre ; after getting 
through with his work at Waddams Grove, he wanted to find his father and mother, 
whom he had left at Hall's Tavern some time before ; in going back there he found 
them on the spot where his house now stands. He is a Republican in politics, voted 
for Fremont, has held the office of Tax Collecter, Overseer of Highways, also school 
offices. Sept. 1, 1854, he married Miss Polly Clay, of Ohio ; was married near Wad- 
dams ; they had eleven children — Delilah, Sophia, Mary E., Harriet, John F., Margaret, 
William, Ellie F., Kate, Huldah Ann and Edward. 

JOHN MARTIN, Sr., farmer, Sec. 17 ; P. 0. Freeport; born in Sussex, 
Co., England, May 6, 1802 ; did not leave his native country until 1849 ; was farming 
land owned by his father, and when he died, a legacy of £1,000 was left John, who 
then farmed for himself, but with such poor success that at the age of 47 he found he 
had lost all, so started for America; he landed in New York in 1849 ; came West and 
bought 40 acres, on which he lives, now farmed by his son, John Martin, Jr. ; it is 
valued at $50 per acre. He is a Republican, and belongs to the Episcopal Church. Mr. 
Martin, in 1823, in July, married Miss Mary Ann Fedard, of England; they were 
married in Whiteside, Kent Co. ; have had nine children — Harriet, Edward, John, 
Elizabeth, Stephen, Thomas, Henry, Mary Ann and James. 

WILLIAM MEADS, farmer; P. O. Cedarville ; born in Maryland, 
July 19, 1817 ; he lived "there until 1879, engaged in the shoe trade, milling, and 
farming with his father ; the old family numbered six boys, of whom four are living — 
James Meads, now in Iowa ; William, the subject of this sketch ; Nathan, in Pennsyl- 
vania, and Aquilla. Mr. Meads, on the 21st of January, 1839, married Miss Ann 
Gibson, of Pennsylvania; their family were — Franklin, deceased; William; Amos, 
deceased ; Mary Ann, now Mrs. Akins ; Benjamin, living in Freeport ; Leah, in Penn- 
sylvania, and Nathaniel. Mr. Meads now lives quietly on his town property. In 
politics he is a Democrat, and belongs to the Evangelical Church of Cedarville. 

GEORGE MERNITZ, farmer and blacksmith, Sec. 36 ; P. O. Freeport; 
born in Germany, Sept. 10, 1837 ; he emigrated to America with his parents in 1852, 
and settled in Stephenson Co. in 1861, where he has given his attention to farming and 
overseeing his blacksmith shop, which he erected when he first came ; be owns 8 acres 
of land, valued at $150 an acre, with his city property. In politics, he is a Repub- 
lican. He married in 1868, Miss Susan Sanspzer, of Illinois; they have two children 
— Willie and Albert. 

THOMAS METZ, farmer, Sec. 20; P. O. Freeport; born Nov. 12, 1834, 
in Northampton Co., Penn., and came to Stephenson Co. with his father in 1838 ; he 
formerly lived on the David Walkee farm, where they lived for sixteen years, and have 
been on this place for twenty-five years ; he owns 16 acres of timber and 55 acres of 
improved land ; the probable value is $45 an acre. His politics are Democratic. Mr. 
Metz was married in the spring of 1867, in March, to Miss Eliza Merrill, of New 
York ; they have five children — Flora, George, Fred, Verne and Mary. 



690 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

LEWIS MEYERS, wagonmaker, Sec. 18 ; P. 0. Eleroy ; born in Germany, 
April 25, 1827 ; came to this country in 1853, when 20 years of age ; from New York 
he went to Bradford Co., Penn., and moved West to Stephenson Co. in 1855, and 
worked fur Mr. Kreitte in Freeport, for one and a half years ; he then moved to Loran, 
and worked at his trade ten years there, and finally went to Eleroy, where he carried 
on wagon-making for six years, and in 1873 moved on to his present location ; but it 
was not until the spring of 1878 that he moved his shop down ; he owns now 80 acres, 
which he farms, valued at $55 an acre. In 1855, he married Miss Matilda Trich ; they 
have seven children — Mary (now Mrs. L. Grilman), William H., Liddie L., Tillie E., 
L. Frank, Charles E. and Clyde G. Mr. Meyers enlisted in the 15th I. V. I., Co. H r 
and was mustered out in Springfield in 1804. Conrad is here on the farm ; his sister, 
Charlotte (now Mrs. Flickinger), and William, living in Jefferson Township. Lewis is 
a Republican ; also belongs to the Evangelical Church, of which he is a class-leader, and 
Rev. Charles Feler, minister. 

E. it. MULNIX, farmer and school teacher, Sec. 15; P. 0. Freeport; born 
in Delaware Co., N. Y., Aug. 23, 1820 ; lived at home until 1855 ; farmed and studied 
from 1848 to 1855 ; he taught, clerked and finally went West ; during his first visit he 
stayed on the very spot where his house is now built ; he then went on to Iowa, farming 
and teaching in the winter for some thirteen years ; didn't like it in Fayette Co., Iowa, 
so he sold out and came back, and settled on this place in 1809, and has been here since. 
He owns what used to be three farms — the Jim Smallwood farm, the Henry Smallwood 
farm and the piece his house stands on, called the Sheller farm. The farm now con- 
tains 220 acres, valued at $00 per acre. While in Iowa, Fayette Co., on March 27 r 
1850, he married Miss Desdemona Dunham, of Mercer Co., Penn. ; they have had six 
children — Mahlon D., Stella, Romana D., Corintha A., Sarah D. and Lola D. Mr. 
Mulnix, in politics, is a Republican, or what he terms an equal-rights man, and a member 
of the Christian Church, or what he calls a Union man. His references are Matt., 10th 
c, 18th v., and John, 17th c, which prove that the union of the church is what is 
desired, and so he is a Union man in religion. 

O. B. jtlUNN', farmer, Sec. 30 ; P. O. Freeport ; born in St. Lawrence Co., 
N. Y.j March 10, 1817; living in his native county until he attained his 24th year; 
then coming directly to Stephenson Co. in the year 1841, Sept. 20, and has been engaged 
farming since ; owns at present 100 acres, valued at $75 per acre. Politics, Republican ; 
religion, united with the Presbyterian Church in 1842. Has held township and school 
offices. Married in 1845, Miss Ellen W. Vandyke, of Pennsylvania ; six children in all — 
Joseph O., Charles H., Edgar W., Mary Ellen, Mary Emma and Carrie. Parents of 
Mr. Munn native Americans ; grandfather Munn was with Ethan Allan at the capture 
of Ft. Ticonderoga. 

JOSEPH R. MFRDOUOH, farmer, Sec. 9 ; P. O. Damascus. Joseph's 
father, James Murdough, came to Stephenson Co. in 1839 ; lived first in Buckeye and 
then in Lancaster Township, and then settled on Sec. 8 in 1840, living in a log house 
until 1857, when he built a grout house, which is now occupied by C. A. Hart; in 
1805, he moved on to the present homestead in Sec. 9. In 1841, he married Miss 
Margaret McGee, of Ireland ; their family consisted of ten children — one son died in the 
army, Joseph R., Margaret A., Sarah J., Thomas S., Mary R., Hannah W., Elizabeth 
D., Mary C., Ebenezer D. ; Joseph is taking care of the farm ; Margaret is now Mrs. 
William Laird, of Nebraska; Mary C. is with them; Elizabeth, now Mrs. William 
Waddams, lives in Waddams, the rest are dead ; Joseph R. was born Sept. 8, 1843, and 
in 1803 started West ; teamed and mined in Montana, Colorado, Dakota, Idaho and 
Utah, and came back in 1800 ; he then went to Nebraska, Pawnee Co. ; kept bachelor's 
ranche till 1879, and got back home 19th of April. He married Miss Sophia Beke, of Penn- 
sylvania, 10th of May, 1880, by Squire Jaeger. Has held township and school offices, 
and is a Democrat. 

FRANK PICKARD, farmer, Sees. 18 and 7 ; P. O. Eleroy; born in 
Stephenson Co., 111., Dec. 10, 1850 ; his ancestors were old settlers in the West; grand- 
father, Smith W. Pickard, born in Ovid, Seneca Co., N. Y., Sept. 24, 1795 ; was a 



HARLEM TOWNSHIP. 691 

soldier in 1812 ; moved to Stephenson Co. in 1838 ; left his son, Jonas L. Pickard, and 
went back to Wisconsin and went to farming; in 1813, was a licensed preacher of M. 
E. Church ; as was his wish, he died in church, Oct. 18, 1873 ; Jonas L., the father of 
Frank, was born Nov. 25, 1817, in Cayuga Co., N. Y. ; learned wool-carding as a trade ; 
came out West with his father in 1838, and settled at Waddams ; bought this, the home- 
stead, in 1842; the patent was signed by James K. Polk; he died Jan. 25, 1875, 
leaving a family of six children — Willard Scott, born Feb. 10, 1845 ; Marion Winfield, 
born Jan. 28, 1848; Lorenzo Finley, born April 5, 1849; Emily, born March 30, 
1852 ; Frank Fremont, born Dec. 10, 1856 ; Delta, born July 4, 1860 ; Frank F. now 
farms the estate, containing 83 acres, valued at $50 an acre. He is a Republican, and 
belongs to the Evangelical Association. Married Miss Susan Herrbruck, June 2, 1877, 
of Pennsylvania ; had one child, named Delta Inez, who died when 22 months of age. 

WILLIAM F. PRESTON, farmer, Sec. 22 ; P. O. Freeport ; was born in 
Gallipolis, Ohio, June 19, 1819, and while there was farming and also learned the cabinet 
trade ; he went to Butler Co., Ohio, in 1838, and ran a grist mill, but, it not paying, he 
sold out and came West to this county, where his brother was then working the farm where 
Mr. Preston now lives, which he had taken as a claim ; his father was living here at that 
time — fall of 1838 — having been surveying for the Government in the State of Michigan 
from 1816 to 1819 ; he was a very popular man and a good surveyor, and at one time 
it was thought that he could have laid out the site of the city of Freeport on the land 
now occupied by his farm ; he died at the advanced age of 92 years. Mr. Preston, 
after coming to this county, settled dowu to farming, which he followed until 1848, 
when he went to California, getting there 7th of October, 1848, having then driven 
oxen from Butler Co., Ohio, to the Pacific, and walking all the way, with the exception 
of about 250 miles ; having made a stake in Calfornia, set sail in a steamer for the 
Isthmus of Panama ; he walked from Panama across the Isthmus to the River Chagres, 
and by boat down to the city of the same name ; from thence to Havana, and then to 
New Orleans, up the Mississippi to Galena, and by stage home to his farm, getting 
there in 1851 ; and, in 1856, put up a saw-mill, and run till January, 1869, then 
turned his mill into a corn-crib, and has been farming since ; owns 140 acres, value $60 
per acre. He has been Overseer of Highways and Township Clerk for a number of 
years ; is now holding last-named office; is a Democrat, and belongs to the United 
Brethren Church in Harlem Centre, which he helped to build and organize in 1869. 
In 1860 he married, and again, to his present wife, in August 25, 1874, Miss Amy S. 
Brigham, of Pennsylvania ; he has three sons, named William, Tecumseh and Rupert. 

R. C. SCHOFIELiD, Sec. 36; P. O. Freeport; born in Chautauqua Co., 
N. Y., April 1,, 1812 ; came to Stephenson Co., 111., Oct. 21, 1844; has been engaged 
in farming all his life to present time ; owns — acres of land, which he lives on, besides 
three dwellings in the city of Freeport. Politics, Democrat from Andrew Jackson's 
time ; religion, Baptist. Married, in 1830, Miss Mary Sterns, of Vermont ; have five 
children living — Margaret E., Silas C, Elizabeth C, Milton E. and Julia O. ; and two 
deceased, Mary A. and Aurelia Ann. Mr. Schofield is uncle to Gen. Schofield, of West 
Point at present. 

GEORGE F. SCHOENE, farmer, Sees. 5 and 8 ; P. O. Damascus ; born 
in Baden, Germany, 17th of May, 1838; left for America in 1846; landed in New 
York, and went to Hamburg, Erie Co. ; carried on the dairy business ten years, when 
he took the Western fever, sold out and went to Peoi'ia, 111., where he was taken sick, 
and remained from August to next April ; his mother and family had followed him 
west, going into Iowa ; hearing that he was sick, his brother went down and took him 
to Dubuque, Iowa; from there they came to Freeport ; from there went to a place on 
Sec. 11 and worked for T. Cockrell ten years ; he then bought his present farm, located 
on Sees. 5 and 8, of 120 acres, valued at $50 per acre. He has held township and 
school offices, is a Democrat, and has been a member of the Lutheran Church. On 
Nov. 7, 1865, he married Miss Louisa Yerk, of Pennsylvania ; they had four children, 
two living — Emily, born in 1874 ; and Mary, 1877 ; two deceased ; adopted one boy. 



692 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

A. J. SEYLER, of the firm of Eel & Seyler, Cedarville, manufacturers of 
the Eel & Seyler Middlings Purifier, patented 1876 and 1877; this firm was estab- 
lished in 1865, as a mill-wrighting business, and was about to be dissolved, but A. J. 
Seyler conceived the idea of inventing a purifier ; in the fall of 1874 he commenced 
the machine which has now proved such a success, that, by perfecting from time to time 
in John H. Addams' flouring mills, it is now supplanting other machines in the mills 
throughout the county. They have two iu Goddard's mill, in Freeport. 

GEORfwE SEYLER, tailor, Cedarville; born in Centre Co., Penn., Sept. 
26, 1815 ; learned his trade when 14 years of age, and has been at it for fifty years; 
has made clothes for Grandfather Clingman ; he left Pennsylvania in 1846, and came 
up to where Cedarville is now, nothing but woods then, and but few neighbors ; 
he thought he must starve, but soon had a good trade, and built himself a cabin on 
what was then the Ilgen part of town site, it being owned by Ilgen, John H. Addams 
and Montellius ; he lived in the log cabin until 1850, then built a brick dwelling, where 
he lived for two years and then sold ; Mr. Sill now lives there; he then built this house 
and has lived here since. In 1839, he married Miss Mary Potts, of Pennsylvania ; they 
have six children — Amelia, William M., both deceased ; George A., lives in Cedarville, 
Martha A., Andrew J. and Elizabeth, now Mrs. Shaffer. George's father, Peter Seyler, 
had twelve children in his family ; seven now alive, only two, however, in Illinois. 

JOSEPH SMITH, farmer and tailor, Sec. 3 ; P. 0. Cedarville ; born in 
Baden, Germany, May 14, 1827 ; came to America in 1847, when 20 years of age, and 
stayed in Buffalo, N. Y., till 1853, working at tailoring; he then went to Chicago, 111., 
where he worked at his trade and kept saloon for three years, and in 1856, moved to 
Cedarville, where his father and mother lived then, but they are now dead ; he worked 
at his trade up to 1866, when he bought the farm he now lives on, which consists of 76 
acres, valued at $40 an acre. He is a Democrat, and belongs to the Catholic Church. 
In 1860, July 26, he married Miss Mary Swartz, a native of Darmstadt, Germany; 
she has been dead six years ; they had four children — Francis, John, Mary and Kate ; 
all at home but Francis, who lives at Mr. Levi Law's. 

FREDERICK SP ANGLER, farmer, Sec. 26 ; P. O. Freeport ; born in 
Stephenson Co., 111., April 23, 1853 ; from boyhood he has farmed, and the farm he 
lives on now has always been his home, though before he was married he roved through 
the adjoining States : finally, thinking there was no place like home, settled on the old 
farm, which embraces 70 acres in Sees. 26 and 27, valued at $45 an acre. In politics is 
a Democrat, and belongs to the Catholic Church. In Dec. 23, 1877, he married Miss 
Maggie Kinniger, of this State ; their family now consists of two children — Joseph M. 
and Frederick J. 

JOHN STEFFEN, farmer, Sec. 11; P. 0. Freeport ; born in Prussia, 
March 23, 1835; started for America Oct. 16, 1860, and came right to Stephenson 
Co. ; he now owns 40 acres of land, valued at $55 an acre. He fanned until 1865, and 
then went into the army ; was private in 38th, I. V. I., Co. A ; was taken sick with 
small-pox, and got a furlough of three months ; was with his regiment in North Caro- 
lina, and went through several lively skirmishes ; was mustered out in 1866, at Victoria, 
Texas. He then came home, after leaving the army, but went back to Kentucky, and 
there he married Miss Margaret Lenewemper, of Kentucky, who was born in his own 
country; they were married Sept. 11, 1867 ; he then gardened at Covington, Ky., for 
four years, sold out and came here, and has worked the old farm since ; their family 
consists of five children — John, Annie, Rosa, Mary and Emma. 

HENRY W. STOCKS, farmer, Sec. 7; P. 0. Eleroy ; born in England 
Jan. 11, 1841 ; came to America in 1842 with his father, David Stocks, who was a 
molder in the old country; worked at it in Pennsylvania, and helped start Williams 
Foundry in Freeport; after landing in New York, they went to Pennsylvania and lived 
about seven years ; they then came to Stephenson Co. and stayed with Martin Murphy ; 
bought this farm and moved on it in 1850 ; two years after this, when eleven years old, 
he began to plough, and has been a farmer since; he owns 100 acres, now valued at $40 
an acre. In politics, he is a Republican. In 1860, Sept. 2, he married Miss Matilda 



HARLEM TOWNSHIP. 69S 

Reber; they have three children — Rosa A., Charles H. and Cora J. Mr. Stocks 
enlisted, in February, 1864, in Co. A, 92d I. V. I., and was mustered out in July, 
1865 ; he was in all the engagements from Chattanooga to Atlanta, and with Sherman 
on his " March to the Sea." Henry W. also hunts and traps in the winetr; in 1873, 
he went through Iowa, Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas and Missouri, and got back home in 
1874 ; he has a claim he bought, in 1873, in Kansas. 

JOHN W. STOCKS, farmer, Sec. 7 ; P. 0. Eleroy ; born in Holdersburg, 
Blair Co., Penn., Dec. 22, 1843 ; his father and family, during his youth, were living 
at different times in Holdersburg and in Martinsburg, attending to his business — that of 
molder in the foundry ; John W. was going to school at this period of his history. 
David Stocks bought his farm of three different parties : the first 80 of Badger, the 
second 80 of Flansburg and a 40 of Justice Coats ; and, afterward, two more 80's ; 
they moved to Stephenson Co. in April, 1850, and on to the farm. Mr. Stocks lived in 
Erin Township for six years, and was School Director while there ; is a Republican in 
principles. Has taught school for six terms, from 1865 to 1866, and then went to school at 
Mt. Morris in 1866-67, and taught again from 1868 to 1874; he owns 200 acres of 
land, valued at $50 per acre. In 1871, Feb. 20, he married Miss Susan Wagner, of 
Northumberland Co., Penn., born Sept. 8, 1849; they have four children — C. May, J. 
D., M. Ellen and Laura. 

JAMES STONEMAN, farmer, Sec. 27; P. O. Freeport ; born June 1, 
1842, in the State of Pennsylvania; left home at 8 years of age, and, after spending 
some two years in Monroe, Wis., came to Stephenson Co., 111., in April of 1852; he 
then moved on to his farm of 80 acres, in 1867, and has been busily engaged working 
it since; its probable value is $25 per acre. He has, though not a married man, held 
school offices ; in politics he is a Republican. 

WILLIAM STONEMAN, farmer, Sec. 34 ; P. O. Freeport ; born in 
Chenango Co., N. Y., March 18, 1805 ; moved to Chautauqua Co. in 1828, from there 
to Wisconsin in 1838, and from Wisconsin to Stephenson Co., 111., in 1844; owns 280 
acres, valued at $50 an acre. Politics, Republican from J. Q. Adams' time ; he held the 
office of Assessor of Freeport in 1850. He was married, in 1847. to Miss Melinda 
Dunham, of Saratoga Co., N. Y. 

JOHN H. STOUT, bridge-builder, house-carpenter and farmer, Sec. 4 ; P. 
O. Damascus; born in Northumberland Co., Penn., Oct. 7, 1818; he can trace his 
descent from William IV ; his grandparents came from Holland to America, locating 
first in what was then New Amsterdam, and moved to Hopeful, N. J., where his father 
was born, who learned to be a mechanic ; from his father, John H. learned the trade, 
and worked at it until coming out West ; he landed in Chicago May 15, and came to 
Freeport June 3, 1845, looked up a location and moved his family out ; went to work, 
and, in 1854, was appointed Inspector of Bridges on the I. C. R. R., Northern 
Division ; in the fall of 1855, he came to this farm, expecting to leave in the spring of 
1866, but he is there yet; he took a contract for wood of the railroad company, and 
cut over 1,100 acres and put out 7,000 cords in three months. Mr. Stout owns 100 
acres, now valued at $50 an acre. Has held the office of Road Commissioner, and also 
school offices ; is a Democrat, and has been a member of the Baptist Church. In Sep- 
tember, 1838, he was married to Miss Catherine Ann Wolf, of Clinton Co., Penn. ; 
they have five children, all married — Mary R., married to James Hubbs ; Thomas W., 
lives in Nebraska ; Catherine M., lives in same place, Pawnee Co., Neb. ; George B., 
married Emma Hulroyd, and lives at Corn Grove; Prucilla A., lives in Nebraska. 
Thomas W. was in the army ; belonged to the 92d I. V. I. ; one of his sons-in-law was 
shot in the heel and crippled somewhat. 

FREDERIC WATSON, farmer, Sec. 26 ; P. O. Freeport ; born in Not- 
tinghamshire, England, in 1822; left old England for America when 13 years old ; he 
was in Pennsylvania in the spring of 1843, and took an active part in the campaign of 
Polk and Clay, and got beat, though not yet old enough to vote ; he worked at quarry- 
ing stone for old Harvey Bailey, and in the fall of 1845 left Pennsylvania for the West, 



6'J4 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

and the same year pre-empted 80 acres of land in Stephenson Co., 111.; he owns now 247 
acres, worth from $40 to $45 an acre, located on Sees. 26, 27 and 23 ; he quarried the 
stone and built the dam in the river at Freeport, also the church building for the 
United Brethren at Harlem Center, of which he is a member. He has been a Free-Soil 
man, and also a Popular-Sovereignty man ; started with the Whig party ; has been an 
Abolitionist, and is now a Republican. Married in Nottinghamshire, England, in Old 
Baseford Church, to Miss Eliza Stocks, a native of England ; their family consists of fif- 
teen children — Mary, Thomas, William, Haleck, Helen, Fred, Charles, Alice (now de- 
ceased), Lizzie, Frank, Burt (also dead), George, Ruth, David and Emma. 

MRS. HANNAH L. WILCOXON, widow, Sec. 11 ; P. 0. Freeport; 
born in Scioto Co., Ohio, July 12, 1817 ; her maiden name was Hannah L. Wibbs ; she 
was married to Rezin Wilcoxon on her 23d birthday, in 1840; arrived in Stephenson 
Co. on the 8th of August, same year ; William Wilson and family accompanied them ; 
they landed at Peru, and came the rest of the way in wagons ; when they got here there 
were but 12 acres broken, and the saw-mill. Two nieces (daughters of Thomas Wil- 
coxon, who died in 1824, at New Orleans) were keeping house for Levi before he mar- 
ried Miss Hibbs; the two nieces are living in California — Elizabeth (now Mrs. Sharp) 
and Harriet (now Mrs. Watrus). At this time Hannah L.'s husband, with his brothers 
Levi and Thompson, held eighteen 80's in their claim ; Mrs. Wilcoxon owns 307 
acres, valued at $40 an acre, located on Sees. 3, 10 and 11. Mrs. Rezin Wilcoxon's 
family numbered six children — Oscar D. (who died in Concord, N. C. ; he belonged to 
the 92d I. V. I , Co. K.), Mary E., Julia N. (now married and living in Ohio), Ther- 
muthis A., George and Rezin ( the last three) and Mary E. live on the home estate. 

JOHN WRIGHT, farmer. Sec. 12 ; P. O. Freeport; born in Union Co., Penn., 
July 6, 1824; he left there for Stephenson Co., 111., in 1843, with a party numbering 
over sixty persons, some of whom are now residing in this county ; among others are the 
Misses Barber, now 80 years of age, and Mrs. Vandyke, over 90 years of age ; one of her 
daughters is now Mrs. O. B. Munn. His party arrived at Freeport on July 4, 1843, and 
stopped at the main hotel, which stood where the pop factory stands now ; here they 
were met by his brother, Pascal Wright, who had entered land some time before, and 
paid $1.25 per acre, somewhere about 1838 or 183:3 ; John went out to this farm, and 
has been here since; he now owns 185 acres, valued at $55 per acre. He has 
been Road Commissioner, and has held school offices ; is a Republican, and was 
before the party was organized. He belongs to the Cedarville Presbyterian Church, 
which was built in 1876; he was Treasurer of the Building Committee ; the church was 
dedicated on Oct. 29, 1876 ; the first regular minister was L. H. Mitchell. Mr. John 
Wright married twice ; his firsl wife's name was Margaret Ewing — married her in No- 
vember, 1851 ; and the second wife, Mary B. Heise, of Columbia, Lancaster Co., Penn.: 
he married while on a visit to Pennsylvania in 1862, on the 3d of January ; he has four 
children — Emily L., Oliver P., Maggie H., and one dead. 

WILLIAM WRIGHT, farmer, Sec. 12; P. 0. Freeport; born in Union 
Co., Penn., on the 27th Sept., 1820; started with his father, Samuel Wright, and 
family, from Pennsylvania, in 1843, with a party consisting of fifty-four persons, as fol- 
lows : John Barber's family, consisting of ten persons ; Samuel B. Barber's family, con- 
sisting of five persons ; James W. Barber's family, consisting of ten persons ; John Van- 
dyke and sons' family, consisting of eleven persons; Samuel Wright's family, consisting of 
five persons ; Jacob Gable's family, consisting of six persons ; and Robert Badger's family, 
consisting of seven persons ; this party started on the 28th of May and arrived on the 4th 
of July, 1843, being five and a half weeks on the way ; their route took them through 
Mercer Co. ; they crossed the Alleghany River at Franklin, passed up through Warren, 
Ohio, to Cleveland, and from Lower Sandusky crossed into Adrian, Mich. ; in crossing 
the Maumee, Mrs. Badger had a fit from fright, and died next day ; the party passed 
Janesville, Mich., and Hillsdale to South Bend, Ind., to Michigan City, across the Cal- 
umette to Chicago, through Rockford, where the party divided. William Wright's party 
reached Stephenson Co. ; he then settled on his brother Pascal's claim, of which he now 
owns 104 acres. He has held Town Clerk's office, and is a Republican in politics. He 



LORAN TOWNSHIP. 695 

was married in July to Miss E. J. Runner, of Pennsylvania ; they have one child — J. 
Merrill Wright. 

WILLIAM. L. WRIGHT, farmer, Sec. 12 ; P. 0. Freeport; born on the 
farm where he now lives, in the year 1851, Nov. 28; he has worked the estate with his 
father, Pascal L. Wright, and, since his death, which occurred in 1872, William has 
farmed it himself; he now owns 195 acres, valued at $50 per acre. In politics he is a 
Republican, and attends the Presbyterian Church. In 1875, March 11, he married 
Miss Laura Buckley, of Freeport, Stephenson Co., the ceremony being performed in 
Shannow, Carroll Co.; they have one child, born Dec. 21, 1878, named John Howard 
Wright. William's father was one of the party which came out in 1838, the others 
being Robert Chambers, J. B. Barber, Robert Barber, James Chambers and Jesse 
Weifcle. Pascal L. was born in Columbia, Lancaster Co., Pa., in 1813, and purchased 
this claim on the south half of Sec. 12, of William Robey ; his family consisted of 
J. Lawson Wright, a graduate of Normal 111., and now teaching; a daughter, the oldest 
married to John Winters, and now in the next county ; Jane H. is living with her, while 
Anna C. is attending school in Oregon, Ogle Co. 111. Pascal's brothers William and 
John live on farms adjoining. 



LORAN TOWNSHIP. 

MRS. ELIZABETH APKER, Sec. 10 ; P. 0. Yellow Creek ; born 
in Lycoming Co., Penn., May 3, 1822 ; was married to John Apker, Jan. 21, 1845 ; 
her maiden name was Elizabeth Farley. Mr. A. was born in York State July 30, 
1823 ; his father moved to Lycoming Co. when he was quite young. Mr. and Mrs. 
A. moved from Pennsylvania to this county in 1847. Mrs. Apker has a family of 
eleven children ; they are — Louisa, born Jan. 7, 1846 ; Mary, June 6, 1848 ; Lottie, 
Sept. 14, 1849 ; Henry C, Jan. 22, 1851 ; Samuel R., Oct. 15, 1852 ; Mahlon, Aug. 
10, 1854; Hattie J., Sept. 24, 1856; David L., June 17, 1858 ; Alice E., Feb. 19, 
1861 ; Jennie R., July 8, 1863 ; John, Oct. 27, 1865. Louisa is married to Solomon 
Kamrar, of Clinton Co., Iowa ; Mary is married to Thomas Schaffer, of Freeport ; 
Henry is married, and in Chicago. Mr. A. died of sickness contracted in the army, 
at Mobile, Ala., in 1865 ; he enlisted February 8, and died the 8th of May. Mrs. A. 
owns 86 acres of land. Mr. A. is buried in Mobile Cemetery. 

REUBEN BABB, farmer, Sec. 3 ; P. 0. Freeport; born in Berks Co., 
Penn., in 1810; he came to this county in 1840, from Lycoming Co., Penn. He was 
married to Miss Eliza Stall in 1837 ; she was born in Northumberland Co., Penn., in 
1815. Mr. and Mrs. Babb have five children living; they are John, born Feb. 28, 
1840; Jane, July 10, 1847; Solomon, Nov. 25, 1851; Aaron, July 26, 1855, and 
Ephraim, Feb. 5, 1858 ; those dead are Amanda and Sophia, buried in the Lutheran 
Cemetery, Loran Township. Mr. Babb has 240 acres of land ; he has the family 
record of the Babb family for many years back, in Germany. Mr. B. was one of the 
first board appointed by the State Superintendent of Education, to take charge of the 
schools for this township, which board held office until 1851 ; he has been in office 
almost ever since the township organization, until 1872 ; he was one of the first Road 
Commissioners for the township, and is one of the oldest settlers living in the township. 

H. M. BARNES, farmer, Sec. 9 ; P. O. Yellow Creek ; born in Oneida 
Co., N. Y., in 1813, and moved to this county in 1854. Married Miss Louisa Bying- 
ton, Jan. 28, 1838 ; she was born in Herkimer Co., N. Y., in 1813; they were married 
in Camden, Oneida Co., N. Y. Mr. and Mrs. B. have six children ; the oldest, George 
H., died aged 22 years, in the army, and was buried at Savannah, Tenn.; he belonged 
to the 7th I. V. C. ; Harriet, died Oct. 10, 1842, and is buried in Eatonsville Ceme- 
tery, Herkimer Co., N. Y. ; Adelbert, married, and living in Red Oak, Montgomery 
Co., Iowa; Jared B., married, and living in the same county ; Hattie L., married to 
Charles F. Scott, of Loran Township ; Whiting S., married, and living at home. 

DD 



696 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES : 

JACOB BEHRINGER, farmer, Sec. 8 ; P. 0. Yellow Creek ; born in 
Wurtemberg, Germany, in 1830 ; came to this country in 1853, and to this county in 
April, 1854. Was married to Miss Katharine Karr. in this county, in 1856 ; she was 
born in Wurtemberg, Germany, in 1834; Mr. and Mrs. B. have eleven children, seven 
living and four dead ; those living, are Maggie, born in 1861; Lydia, 1863; Emma, 
1865; Mary, 1867; Samuel, 1869; David, 1871, and Hannah, in 1873; John is 
buried in the Dunkard Cemetery, Kent Township, and Susan and two others are buried 
in the German Cemetery, Loran Township. Mr. B. owns a farm of 105 acres, and has 
followed farming since he came to this country. 

IRA S. B YINGTON, farmer, Sees. 25 and 36 ; P. 0. Freeport ; born in 
Oneida Co., York State, June 9, 1813; came to this county in 1853. Was married to 
Miss Harriet Barnes May 7, 1835; she was born in Oneida Co., N. Y., April 18, 
1815. Mr. and Mrs. Byington have four children living, and three dead ; they are 
Elenora A., born March 14, 1837 ; Alvin, April 18. 1839 ; Flora, Oct. 14, 1840 ; 
Flora P., March 18, 1844; Harriet Jennie, Jan. 9, 1850; Clara E., April 6, 1853 ; 
and Clark I., Dec. 12, 1858; Flora died July 12, 1842— buried in Yorkville Cem- 
etery. Kalamazoo Co., Micb. ; Alvin, Oct. 1, 1860, and Elenora A., Nov. 29, 1876, and 
are buried in the Presbyterian Cemetery, Ridott Township, this county. Mr. B. has 
been Justice of the Peace nine years, which office he now holds; he has been Com- 
missioner of Highways six years ; he has 160 acres of land. Flora P. is now Mrs. 
Askey, of Montgomery Co., Iowa ; Harriet Jennie is Mrs. Robert Hayes, of East Du- 
buque, 111. ; Clara E. is Mrs. J. Peck, living at home. 

JOHN C. DITZLER, farmer, Sec. 7 ; P. O. Yellow Creek ; born in Nor- 
thumberland Co., Penn., April 18, 1836; came to this county in 1848. Was married 
to Miss Sophia Babb in 1863 ; she was born in this county in 1842 ; died May 16, 
1873, and is buried in the Lutheran Cemetery, Loran Township. Mr. Ditzler was 
married again to Miss Ida Harrenstein Feb. 26, 1874 ; she was born in Germany, in 
1849; Mr. Ditzler has three children by his first wife — Laura, born April 2, 1865 ; 
Cyrus, born April 8, 1867, and Lillie, born Sept. 5, 1870; and three by his second wife 
— Charles B., born Oct. 20, 1876 ; John, born March 6, 1878, and George, born Dec. 
20, 1879. Mr. Ditzler has 180 acres of land in this township ; he has served as School 
Director and Trustee for three years, and as Township Collector for one year. 

MATHIAS J. DITZLER, carpenter and farmer, Sec. 2 ; P. O. Free- 
port; born in Wurtemberg, Germany, Jan. 28, 1812; came to Pennsylvania about 
1815. Was married to Miss Rachel Babb Jan. 18, 1837 ; she was born in Berks Co., 
Penn., Oct. 26, 1815.; Mr. and Mrs. Ditzler moved to this county in 1840 ; they have 
a family of ten children living and one dead ; they are Thomas A., born Oct. 25, 1838 ; 
John M., born Dec. 28, 1840 ; Samuel B., born Jan. 4, 1843 ; Jacob B., born Oct. 3, 
1844; Mary S., born Nov. 11, 1846 ; Eliza A., born Feb 2, 1849 ; Hiram, born April 
11,1851; Margaret S., born Aug 16, 1853; Amos M., born Sept. 7, 1855; Sarah 
Jane, born Dec. 28, 1857; Catharine E., born June 15, 1859; Samuel B., died of 
sickness contracted in the army at Benton Barricks, Mo. ; he belonged to Co. I, 13th 
I. V. I. ; is buried in the Lutheran Cemetery, Loran Township ; Mrs. Ditzler died 
Sept. 19, 1863, and is buried in the Lutheran Cemetery ; Mr. Ditzler now lives 
with his son-in-law, J. A. Gheen, who married his fourth daughter, Sarah J., Sept. 29, 
1879 ; he was born in Clinton Co., Penn., May 19, 1856 ; Mr. Gheen owns 40 acres 
of land. 

ANDREW K. EBY, farmer, Sections 8 and 9 ; P. O. Yellow Creek ; 
owns 120 acres of land; born in Ogle Co., 111., Oct. 16, 1850; came to this county in 
1853. Was married to Miss Mary E. DeVore, March 17, 1872 ; she was born in Bed- 
ford Co., Penn., March 3, 1851 ; Mr. and Mrs. Eby have one child — Olive J., born 
Feb. 3, 1864. Mr. Eby's father and mother were both born in Pennsylvania, and 
came to this State in 1846 ; they had a family of nine children, one girl living and one 
dead, and seven boys ; Mr. Eby's father first came to Ogle Co., where he remained 
four years, then came to this county ; in 1870, he and the family, except Andrew, 
removed to Cedar Co., Neb. Mrs. Eby's father and mother were born in Bedford Co., 



LORAN TOWNSHIP. 697 

Penn., and came to this county in 1853. where Mr. DeVore followed farming until his 
death, in 1872, Feb. 22 ; he is buried in the German Baptist Cemetery, Loran Town- 
ship ; Mrs. DeVore still survives him ; Mr. and Mrs. DeVore had a family of six boys 
and three girls — two boys dead, one buried with the father, and the other died of sick- 
ness in the army at Vicksburg, Miss. ; he is buried there. 

JAMES C. GRAHAM, farmer, Sec. 10 ; P. 0. Yellow Creek ; born in 
CeDter Co., Penn., Jan. 25, 1845 ; came to this State in 1856, and to this county in 
1858. He was married to Miss Emma Goodnow Sept. 28, 1876 ; she was born in 
Waukesha Co., Wis., Oct. 6, 1855 ; Mr. and Mrs. Graham have two children — Lyman 
Woods, born July 2, 1877 ; George Warren, born Jan. 12. 1879. Mr. Graham's 
father's family consisted of Mathew, the father, born in Pennsylvania, Feb. 14, 1797 ; 
Martha Jane Shannon, the mother, born Dec. 14, 1800 ; married Jan. 24, 1822 ; 
Henry, born Dec. 20, 1823; John, born Oct. 14, 1825; Matthew Woods, born Oct. 
16, 1827; George Junkin, born Aug. 4, 1829; Martha Ann, born May 22, 1831 ; 
Elizabeth, born April 15, 1834; Jane, born Feb 4, 1836; Samuel S., born Feb. 12, 
1838; David F., born April 19, 1840; Ephraim W., born May 31, 1842; James O, 
born Jan. 25, 1845 ; those dead are, George J., Mar..h 11, 1853 ; Martha Ann, July 
11, 1853 ; Elizabeth, Feb. 14, 1848; John S., July 28, 1863; are buried in Belle- 
fonte Cemetery, Center Co., Penn. ; David F. was killed at Ft. Donelson, Feb. 15 
1862; he belonged to Co. A, 11th I. V. I. The father died Oct. 19, 1872, the, 
mother, March 30, 1875; Ephraim W. died Aug. 31, 1873; Samuel died Jan 31, 
1880 ; are all buried in Freeport Cemetery. 

WILLIAM H. HAM, farmer, Sec 9 ; P. O. Yellow Creek; born in 
Northampton Co., Penn., March 22, 1856 ; came to this county in 1869. Was married 
to Miss Margaret S. Ditzler, Jan. 5, 1879; she was born Aug. 16, 1853. Mr. H.'s 
father was born in Pennsylvania, March 11, 1821 ; came here in 1869 ; his mother 
was born Feb. 22, 1822 in Pennsylv-nia, both living. He has one brother buried in 
St. Peter's Cemetery. Northampton Co., Penn., and three sisters living, Mary J., Lucy 
A. and Sarah M. 

SAMUEL HART, farmer, Sec. 6 ; P. O. Yellow Creek ; born in Juniata Co. 
Penn., May 20, 1825, came to this county in 1857. Was married to Miss Josephine' 
Michler in 1860, she was born in Lancaster Co., Penn., in 1837 ; Mr. and Mrs. Hart 
have a family of two children — Parmelia, born Feb. 15, 1862, and George, born Oct. 19, 
1860. Mr. Hart followed the pursuit of teaching for several years, both in this State 
and Ohio, being compelled to quit it on account of bronchial affections ; since which 
time he has followed farming very successfully. Is at present one of the Board of Com- 
missioners of Highways for Loran Township. 

JOHN R. HAYES, farmer, Sec. 36 ; P. O. Freeport, born in Bellefonte, 
Center Co., Penn., Feb. 24, 1839 ; came to this county 1844. Was married to Jane 
Graham Feb. 20, 1868; she„was born in Northumberland Co., Penn., Feb. 4, 1836; 
Mr. and Mrs. Hayes have five children living, and one, an infant, buried in Freeport 
Cemetery ; those living are John Graham, born April 30, 1870; Martha Jane, July 15, 
1872; Mathew Graham, Nov. 26, 1874; Samuel Hutchinson, May 7, 1876, and Mary 
Ellen, Jan. 20. 1880. Mr. Hayes enlisted in Co. A, 11th I. V. I., April 16, 1861 ; 
discharged, July 31, 1861 ; re-enlisted on the same day for three years, in the same 
company ; was wounded at Shiloh April 6, 1862, remained in the hospital till Oct. 24, 
of the same year, when he was discharged from the service ; Mr. Hayes again enlisted 
as veteran in Co. A of the 11th I. V. I., Feb. 6, 1864, was transferred to Co. K, of the 
46th I. V. I., and honorably discharged Jan. 20, 1866. He is strongly Republican in 
politics. Has 168 acres of land. 

LEWIS HOUSEL, farmer, Sec. 19 ; P. O. Yellow Creek ; born in Union Co., 
Penn., Oct. 23, 1850; came to this county and State in 1851. Was married to Miss 
Catherine Finkenbinder Sept. 6, 1876 ; Mrs. Housel was born in Kent Township, this 
county, April 9, 1857 ; Mr. and Mrs. Housel have one child, William Henry, born 
May 26, 1877. Mr. Housel owns 90 acres of land, valued at $4,500. 



698 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

FREDERICK KIELSMEIR, farmer, Sec. 15 ; P. 0. Freeport ; owns 
85 acres of land ; born in Germany, Doc. 23, 1840 ; came to this country in 1867 ; 
was married to Miss Louisa llartmeir, Sept. 12, 1869; she was born in Germany, May 
27, 1840. The family are Louisa, born Aug. 19, 1870; Freddie, April 24, 1872; 
Henry, May, 9, 1874; Lydia, March 24, 1876; Minnie, Dec. 29, 1877, and Wilhelm; 
Nov. 27, 1879. Mr. K. lived in Ogle Co., 111., eight years, and five years in this 
county ; is a member of the Evangelical Church. 

IRA KIIOIAN, farmer, Sec. 17 ; P. 0. Yellow Creek ; born in Union Co., 
Penn., Nov. 25, 1825; settled in Jo Daviess Co., in 1856; removed from thereto 
Kent Township, in 1857, and to Freeport, in 1858, where he followed mechanical and 
inventive business, for eight years ; since which time he has followed farming in Loran 
Township. He was married to Miss Mary A. Yohn April 26, 1852 ; Mrs. K. was 
born in Union Co., Penn., Sept. 24, 1832. Mr. and Mrs. K. have ten children living, 
and two dead; those living, are — Emma, born Oct. 16, 1853 ; John, Dec. 20, 1854 ; 
Julia A., Oct. 14, 1856 ; Dora, June 12, 1858; Mary, June 1, 1859 ; Maggie, Oct. 
27,1860; George, Nov. 24, 1861; Sarah, Aug. 17, 1866; Daniel, Sept. 3, 1869 ; 
Minnetta, May 3, 1877, and Maretta and Ira, who are buried in Freeport Cemetery. 
Mr. K. is the inventor of ' Kinman's Patent Measuriug Faucet," also a Patent Gate 
fastening, and other very useful articles ; has been School Trustee for six years ; owns 159 
acres of land. Maretta was born June 5, 1863, died Aug. 13, 1863; Ira, was born 
April 13, 1872, died Oct. 24, 1872. 

DR. O. S. KLECKNER, Postmaster, and dealer in dry goods, groceries 
and notions, Yellow Creek ; born in Union Co., Penn., in 1835 ; came to Stephenson 
Co. in 1860. Married Miss Susan B. Peters, of Milan, Erie Co., Ohio, in 1867 ; she 
was born in Union Co., Penn., in 1847. Mr. and Mrs. K. have two children — Malburn 
M., aged 9 years, and Edith C, aged 22 months. Mr. Klecknor served in the army, in 
Co. D, 93d I. V. I., as 2d Lieutenant, from 1862 to 1863; as Captain of the company 
from 1863 to 1865 ; honorably discharged. Has served for five years consecutively as 
Supervisor of Loran Township, which office he now holds ; is President of Loran 
Township Mutual Insurance Company. , 

CHARLES KXOEPPING, farmer, Sec. 23 ; P. O. Freeport; was born 
in Germany Sept. 7, 1822 ; came to this country May 6, 1854. Was married to Miss 
Caroline Vimmai^in 1854 ; she was born in Germany, in 1824 ; they have a family of 
five children living, and one buried in Freeport Cemetery ; those living are — Emma, 
born July 13, 1855 ; Mary, Nov. 16, 1856 ; Caroline, Dec. 13, 1860 ; Lizzie, Dec. 4, 
1862; Charles, July 2, 1864. Mr. K. was three years School Director, and owns 205 
acres of land ; Emma is now Mrs. Kampmier, and Caroline is Mrs. Charles Kuhlemier. 

D. C. I« 4MB, farmer, Sec. 22 ; P. O. Yellow Creek ; born in Vigo Co., Ind., 
Sept. 16, 1836; came to this county and State in 1842. Was married to Miss Julia 
A. Calhoun, March 22, 1860 ; she was born in Bedford Co., Penn., May 6, 1844. Mr. 
and Mrs. Lamb have seven children living and three dead ; those living are Emma C , 
born May 5, 1861; Jessie A., born July 16, 1862; Dora C, born Feb. 10, 1864; 
John W., born Oct. 3, 1866; Leslie L., boin March 24, 1869 ; Hardie C., born Feb. 
20, 1873 ; two infants born Aug. 12, 1875 ; Daisy E., born Oct. 12, 1876; Emery S., 
born Oct, 27, 1879 ; Hardie C, died Sept. 12, 1877, and the two infants died Aug. 12, 
1875 ; they are buried in the Evangelical Church Cemetery, Loran Township. Mr. 
L. owns 264] acres of land. He enlisted Nov. 21, 1863; mustered out Aug. 31, 
1865; served under Gen. Reynolds, of the trans- Mississippi Department, in Arkansas, 
Co. I, 13th I. V. C. 

WILLIAM LAHRE, farmer, Sec. 8; P. O. Yellow Creek; born in 
Union Co., Penn., Aug. 22, 1830 ; came to this county in 1845. Was married to Miss 
Matilda Thomas in 1854; she was born ill Sandusky, Ohio, Oct. 7, 1833; Mr and 
Mrs. Lahre have ei^ht children living and one dead ; those living are Sarah M.. born 
Jan. 7, 1855; Esther Louisa, boin Oct. 28, 1856; James M., born April 4, 1860 ; 
William K., born March 4, 1863; Isaac E., born July 5, 1865; Alice A., born Oct. 
25, 1867; Harvey A., born July 12, 1870 ; Josephine, born June 14, 1875, and Emma 



LORAN TOWNSHIP. 699 

L., born Aug. 22, 1858; died Jan. 22, 1859; is buried in Phillips Cemetery. Jefferson 
Township. Mr. L. was the first Tax Collector for Jefferson Township, which office he 
held for six years ; was Commissioner of Highways for Loran Township for three years, 
and Assessor for eight years, which office he now holds; has 185 acres of land. Mr. 
Lahre's father came to this county in 1845 ; was born in Lehigh Co., Penn., in 1807 ; his 
mother was born in 1808 ; they have a family of six children living, besides William, 
viz., Elias, born Sept. 10, 1849; John, born Sept. 30, 1837; Isaac, born Oct. 31, 
1846; Sarah, born April 4, 1844; Matilda, born June 15, 1829, and Susan, born Feb. 
28, 1833, and five dead — Abram, David, Henry E., Mary and James. 

IRA LOWRY, farmer, Sec. 2 ; P. 0. Freeport ; born in Centre Co., Penn., 
April 5, 1839 ; came to this county in 1846 ; engaged in farming and teaching school ; 
went to Iowa in 1867 ; returned in 1869 ; followed his profession until 1869, when he 
settled down to farming. He was married to Miss Sarah Heitter Nov. 26, 1865; she 
was born in Pennsylvania Feb. 22, 1833 ; Mr. and Mrs. Lowry have one child — Anna 
C, born April 21, 1871. He has 80 acres of land, valued at $3,200. 

AMOS W. HcCREARY (deceased); born in Adams Co., Penn., 1808; 
moved to Wisconsin 1839 ; came to this county in 1844. Was married to Miss 
Mary Babb Jan. 1, 1845; she was born in Northumberland Co., Penn.; moved 
from Lycoming Co., Penn., July 17, 1840, to this county. Mr. and Mrs. Mc- 
Creary have one child, Samuel B., born Nov. 10, 1845. Mr. McCreary died in 
1846; is buried in the Lutheran Cemetery, Loran Township. Mrs. McCreary's father 
and mother were both born in the same year, 1784, and both died in the same year, 
1861 ; they moved from Pennsylvania in 1840 ; they were among the earliest settlers of 
the county ; they are both buried in the Lutheran Cemetery, Loran Township. Mrs. 
McCreary owns 180 acres of land. 

PHILLIP FILLER, farmer, Sec. 22 ; P. O. Freeport ; born in Freeport 
April 16, 1857; attended school until 1871, when be commenced farming; has had 
two narrow chances of losing his life, once by a blow from a singletree, which slipped 
from its place, and struck him ; and second, by foul air inhaled upon going down into a 
well. He deserves great credit for his endurance and pluck. 

IRA MITCHELL, farmer, Sec. 14; P. O. Yellow Creek ; born in Vigo 
Co., Ind., Aug. 27, 1836 ; came to this county September, 1839. Was married to 
Miss Amanda K. Bell Dec. 25, 1865 ; she was born in Maryland in 1842. Mr. and 
Mrs. Mitchell have three children living — Charles B , born Sept. 9, 1869 ; Angelia and 
Angelina, Aug. 29, 1873 ; and one buried in the Methodist Church Cemetery, Flor- 
ence Township. Mr. Mitchell enlisted in Co. B, 71st I. V. I., July 11, 1862 ; mustered 
out Oct. 29, 1862. Mr. Mitchell is among the oldest settlers of the township; was Post- 
master for eight years at Waterman's Mills. 

LEVI W. SHEFFEY, farmer, Sec. 10; P. O. Yellow Creek; born in 
Chester Co., Penn., May 29, 1828 ; moved to Lycoming Co. and lived there four years ; 
came to this county in 1855. Was married to Miss Catharine Bruner in 1854 ; she 
was born in Northumberland Co., Penn., 1824. Mr. and Mrs. Sheffey have one child, 
Mary Agnes, buried in Freeport Cemetery in 1856, aged 6 months ; two living — William 
Lawrence, born Aug. 8, 1859 ; and Susan Emma, July 29, 1862. Mr. Sheffey enlisted 
in Co. K, 46th I. V. I., Jan 27, 1865 ; mustered out at Baton Rouge Jan. 20, 1866 ; 
received his final discharge at Springfield, HI., February, 1866. Owns 118 acres of 
land. 

JACOB S. STUDEBAKER, Sec. 17; P. O. Yellow Creek; born in 
Bedford Co., Penn., 1814; came to Stephenson Co. 15th November, 1856. Was 
married to Miss Maria Wirtz Oct. 16, 1836 ; she was born in Bedford Co., Penn., 
April 13, 1819 ; died Jan. 22, 1872, and is buried in Yellow Creek Cemetery. Their 
children are as follows: John, born July 22, 1837; Mary, Dec. 10, 1838; Samuel, 
July 6, 1840 ; Henry, March 19, 1872 ; George E., April 22, 1844 : Catharine, March 
6, 1846; Simon, Nov. 1, 1847; Hannah, Feb. 1, 1849; Levi, Dec. 27, 1850; Ann 
Maria, Oct. 14, 1852; infant, April 23, 1854 ; Ellen, Dec. 22, 1855; Sarah, May 27, 



TOO BIOGRAPHTCAL SKETCHES : 

1858; Jacob, June 10, 1862; John, infant and Ann Maria are buried in Miiligan's 
Cove, Bedford Co., Penn. ; John died Aug. 25, 1838; Ann Maria, April 18, 1853; 
and the infant, April 26, 1854; Mary died May 23, 1866, and is buried in Keokuk, 
Iowa; Henry, Oct 12, 1864, buried in Arkansas; Sarah and Jacob are buried in 
Yellow Creek Cemetery ; Sarah died April 1, 1874 ; Jacob, Aug. 13, 1863. Mr. 
Studebaker was married to Mrs. Catharine Finkenbinder Oct. 26, 1872 ; Mrs. Finken- 
binder was married to William Finkenbinder Aug. 16, 1843, in Summit Co., Ohio ; 
she was born in Hanover, Northampton Co., Penn., June 16, 1824. Mr. and Mrs. F. 
moved to this county in 1849 ; Mr. F. was born Dec. 4, 1819, in Frankfort, Cumber- 
land Co., Penn. ; their children are Mary, born Nov. 23, 1844 ; George, Aug. 1, 
1846; Fianna, June 22, 1848; David, July 31, 1850; Michael, Dec. 21, 1852; 
William, Feb. 2, 1855 ; Catharine, April 9, 1857 ; Emma, Jan. 2, 1859 ; Henry. Sept. 
1, 1860 ; Adda, Sept. 2, 1864 ; Elk Zeborah, Sept. 11, 1866 ; Henry died Nov. 9, 
1867 ; Fianna, Dec. 9, 1867 ; and the father, William, died Jan. 4, 1869. Mr. and 
Mrs. F. came to this county with a capital of 6 cents, but by industry, coupled with an 
upright character, succeeded in aci/umulating 500 acres of valuable land in the course 
of twenty years. 

JOHN THOMAS, farmer ; P. O. Yellow Creek ; son of Levi and Elizabeth 
Thomas; born in this county April 18, 1861. His father was born in Pennsylvania 
Aug. 27, 1825, and came to this county in 1847 ; his mother was born in Pennsyl- 
vania March 1, 1836; he has ten brothers and sisters; they are Mary E., born Jan. 
7, 1853; Jacob L., Feb. 20. 1855 ; Eliza Jane, July 22, 1856 : George F., March 30, 
1858; William H., Dec. 20, 1859; Samuel, May 16, 1862; Anna Catharine, Sept. 
16, 1864; Matilda, Sept. 8, 1866 ; Charles, Jan. 27, 1868 ; and Adam, July 12, 1872. 
Mr. Thomas died Dec. 3, 1873, and is buried in Hamilton Co., Nebraska. 

HARVEY M. TOIMS, Sec. 15 ; P. O. Yellow Creek ; born in Kent 
Township, Stephenson Co., 111., May 26, 1837. Married Miss Martha Davis, Jan. 1, 
1866 ; she was born in Lee Co., 111., Nov. 17, 1845. Mr. and Mrs. Titnrns have four 
children — Eugene D. and Edna D., aged 12 years ; Emma, 7 years; and Gertrude 
May, 3 years." Mr. Timms enlisted in Co. A, 92d I. V. I., the 5th of August, 1862, 
appointed to 1st Lieutenant upon the organization of company, promoted to captaincy 
Dec. 25, 1862, served as such until June, 1865, when the company and regiment were 
mustered out ; Mr. T. was retained to the command of recruits and assigned to the 65th 
I. V. I., Co. I , and in July was promoted to Major, which office he held until the 
regiment was mustered out ; Mr. T. was in action in the battles of Franklin, Tenn. ; 
Shelbyville, Mission Ridge, Resaca, Kilpatrick's raid, Lovejoy Station, Jonesboro, 
Triune, Tenn., Chickamauga, Tunnel Hill, AltoonaJ Sherman's march to the sea, 
Aiken, S. C, Bentonville, Savannah, Averysboro, Johnston's surrender, siege of At- 
lanta, Powder Springs. 

FREDERICK WAGNER, mechanic and farmer, Sec. 22 ; P.O. Yellow 
Creek ; born in Sondershausen, Germany, Nov. 10, 1844; came to Freeport, Sept. 22, 
1862, and worked at the mechanical business until 1871, when he moved on the farm 
where he now lives ; has 80 acres of land. Was married to Miss Martha Kruydl, 
June 29, 1868; she was born in Philadelphia, Penn., June 19, 1847 ; Mr. and Mrs. 
Wagner have four children living; they are Elizabeth, born April 1,1869; John, 
April 28, 1870 ; Minnie, Dec. 29, 1873 ; Frederick, Oct. 15, 1877. Mr. Wagner is 
at present School Director of District No. 4, Loran Township. 

CHARLES WATERMAN, Sees. 13 and 14; P. O. Waterman's Mills; 
is a native of Herkimer Co., N. Y., and was born Nov. 14, 1817 ; after reaching man- 
hood he came West to Illinois ; he and his brother, James S. Waterman, the banker of 
Sycamore, DeKalb Co., laid out that town in 1838 ; they were among the earliest settlers 
of De Kalb Co. ; he built the mill at Newburg ; it was the first mill built north of the 
Illinois River except one at Aurora. Mr. Waterman was prominent in ridding that 
section of the country of the notorious band of horse thieves, the " Driscoll Brothers," 
who caused so much trouble at that early day. Bill Driscoll had sworn he would kill 
Mr. W.; soon after, the latter overtook Driscoll on the road on horseback, both were 



JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP. 701 

heavily armed ; they rode together some miles, Mr. W. watching Driscoll closely, and 
was ready to shoot him instantly if any attempt was made to attack him ; while they 
were thus on the road, a body of settlers came upon Driscoll ; he was taken and hanged 
within a few hours during the same day. Mr. Waterman came to Stephenson Co. in 
May, 1840. In 1844, he built a store on Galena street, and engaged in mercantile busi- 
ness ; he afterward engaged iu business in Loran Township ; established mills here and 
a large steam distillery. Mr. Waterman was very active and spent a great deal of 
money to aid the railroads in coming through this county ; he and his son have a large 
stock farm. Mr. Waterman married Miss Eliza Barrett, a native of Vermont ; her 
parents were among the earliest settlers in Winnebago Co. Mr. and Mrs. Waterman 
have one son — Waldo D., who manages the farm. 

WALDO D. WATERMAN, farmer, Sees. 13 and 14; P. 0. Freeport ; 
born in this county, April 22, 1856. He was married May 28, 1879, to Miss Emma 
C. Lamb; she was born in this county. May 5, 1861. Mr. W. owns 280 acres of land. 



JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP. 

ROBERT BAKER, farmer, Sec. 2 ; P. 0. Yellow Creek ; born Aug. 23, 
1815, in Yorkshire, Eng. ; in 1830, he came to Canada; here he learned the carpenter 
trade, and has followed it about forty years ; in 1860, he came to Stephenson Co. ; they 
own 240 acres of land. He married Margaret Muir in 1840 ; she was born in Ireland ; 
they have six children — three sons and three daughters ; his son Albert enlisted in 64th, 
Co. M, 8th I. V. C. served one year. 

PHILLIPP BEHRINOER, farmer, Sec. 10 ; P. O. Loran; his father 
and mother were both born in Wurtemberg, Germany, 1824, and he came to this country 
1864 ; they were married in 1847. Mr. B. has five sisters ; they are Hannah, now Mrs. 
Figi, aged 33 ; Dora, now Mrs. Kiester ; aged 31 ; Christina, now Mrs. Backer, aged 
26 ; Rachel, aged 19, and Katrina, aged 17, all living. Two of the family are buried in 
Germany, and one in Loran Township. Mr. B. was born in 1852; his father's name is 
Christian, and his mother's Magdalena Ricker. 

E. L. BEST, farmer, Sec. 22 ; P. O. Loran ; born Dec. 10, 1844, in Clinton 
Co., Penn. ; in 1861, they came to Stephenson Co. ; his father died in 1876, aged 63 
years ; they own 92 acres of land. 

ISAAC BOGENREIF, farmer. Sec. 1 ; P. O. Yellow Creek ; born Jan. 
19, 1840, in Union Co., Penn. ; in 1844, he came with his parents to Stephenson Co., 
where he has since lived. He owns 200 acres of land. He enlisted in February, 1865. 
in Co. E, 7th I. V. C, and served to the end of the war. Has been School Commis- 
sioner ; he is also Justice of the Peace, and has held this office for the past eight years. 
Married Catharine Wingert in 1862 ; she was born in Union Co., Penn. ; they have 
nine children — three sons and six daughters. 

JOHN S. BOOP, farmer, Sec. 2 ; P. O. Yellow Creek ; born Dec. 28, 
1842, in Union Co., Penn. ; in 1858, he came to Stephenson Co. ; he owns 109 acres 
of land. Enlisted in 1865, in Co. C, 7th 111. V. C, and served to the end of the war. 
Married Sarah C. Bottarf, in 1866 ; she was born in Stephenson Co. ; they have three 
children — Laura M., Mary E. and Frank S. ; lost Willie in infancy. 

CHARLES FLICKIffGER, farmer, Sec. 15 ; P. O. Loran; born Dec. 
14, 1818, in Union Co., Penn. ; in 1843, he came to Stephenson Co., where he has 
since lived; he owns 175 acres of land ; when in Pennsylvania, he learned the tanning 
trade, and worked at this business till coming West. He married Mrs. Sank, March 
23, 1855; she was born in Germany ; have two children — Aaron C. and Lydia A. ; 
she has two children by a former marriage — Louisa and Charlotte. 

S. A. FREY, Postmaster and general merchandise, Loran ; born Jan. 6, 
1836, in Juniata Co., Penn. ; in 1850, he came with his parents to Stephenson Co. ; 



702 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

in 1864, he opened a grocery at Yellow Creek, continued this two years ; he then 
removed to Loran and commenced his present business ; he was appointed Postmaster 
in 1867 ; he has been School Treasurer the past ten years ; has been eight years Town- 
ship Supervisor, and ten years Justice of the Peace. Married Aim M. Higley, in 
1858 ; she was born in New York ; have four children — Flora L, now Mrs. Dr. Knoll, 
Lillie E., George D. and Daisey. 

SAMUEL HAYES, farmer, Sec. 24; P. 0. Yellow Creek; born Dec. 15, 
1804, in Northumberland Co., Penn.; in 1844, he removed to Stephenson Co., where 
he has since lived ; he owns 183 acres of land ; he learned the tanner's trade in Penn- 
sylvania, and followed it there about twelve years. He married Mary Hutchinson in 
1836; she was born in 1806, in Columbia Co., Penn.; they have six children — five 
sons and one daughter ; his sons, John, Russell, Samuel and Robert, served in the 
late war. 

PETER KERCH, farmer, Sec. 27 ; P. 0. Loran ; born March 1, 1817, in 
Germany; in 1846, he came to New York City; in 1848, he removed to Pittsburgh, 
Penn. ; in 1855, he came to his present farm ; he owns 187j acres of land. He mar- 
ried Mena Oman in 1843 ; she was born in Germauy ; they have six children — Jacob, 
John, Albert, Kate, Mary and Anna. 

JOHN KOCH, farmer, Sec. 12; P. 0. Yellow Creek ; born in Wurtemberg, 
Germany, Aug. 13, 1843 ; came to this county in 1854. He was married to Miss 
Katharine Flickinger in 1869 ; she was born in Stephenson Co. June 24, 1850 ; Mr. 
and Mrs. Koch have six children — John William, born Dec. 1, 1869; Mary Ann, May 
12,1871; Charles, Aug. 24, 1873 ; Edward, July 23, 1875; Samuel, June, 1876; 
Peter, March 17, 1879. Samuel died Sept. 10, 1878, and Peter died March 25, 1879 ; 
they are buried in the Loran Cemetery of the German Reformed Church. Mr. Koch 
enlisted, Feb. 22, 1865, in Co. H, 15th I. V. I., and was mustered out at Leavenworth, 
Kan., Sept. 30, 1865. He has been School Director for three terms, Constable for three 
years and Commissioner of Highways three years; he owns 114 acres of land. 

DR. W. F. KNOIili, physician and surgeon, Loran ; born Aug. 24, 1851, 
in Jefferson Township ; at about the age of 25, he commenced studying medicine with 
Dr. R. F. Hayes, of Freeport, and graduated in the class of 1878-79, at the Chicago 
Homoeopathic College ; he then came to Loran and commenced practicing. He mar- 
ried Miss Flora I. Frey Oct. 5, 1879; she was born in Kent Township. 

JACOB OFFENHISER, farmer, Sec. 27 ; P. 0. Loran; born Sept. 27, 
1848, in Wurtemberg, Germany; in 1869, he came to Stephenson Co.; he owns 120 
acres of land. He married Anna Kerch in 1874 ; she was born in Freeport ; they have 
two children — Nathan E. and Ira Austin. 

SIMON SCHESTER, farmer, Sec. 25 ; P. 0. Loran; born Oct. 19, 1819, 
in Germany ; in 1848, he came to New York City, thence to Chicago, and, in the fall 
of this year, he went to Beardstown, 111.; remained here till 1866, when he came to 
Stephenson Co. ; he owns 80 acres of land. He married Carolina Swetman in 1860 ; 
she was born in Germany ; they have four children — one son and three daughters. 

SIMON F. TOL.L.MEIER, farmer, Sec. 35 ; P. 0. Loran ; born May 
18, 1839, in Germany; in 1857, he came to Stephenson Co.; he owns 224 acres of 
land, with improvements equal to, if not the best, in the township ; he is a Director of 
the Mutual Fire Insurance Co. of Loran. He married Caroline Gearke in 1871 ; she 
was born in Jefferson Township ; they have three children — Eddie, Louisa and Lydia ; 
he has four children by a former marriage — Mary, Fred, and Rachel and Maggie, twins. 



ERIN TOWNSHIP. 703 



ERIN TOWNSHIP. 



4wEORCwE M. ALVORD, telegraph operator, express agent and station 
agent, Eleroy ; born in Tonica, 111., Sept. 29, 1857 ; his father fell in the capture of 
Fort Donelson ; his mother now resides at Minonk, Woodford Co., 111., her present 
name being Morris, having married Mr. L. R. Morris ; the Alvord family consisted of 
three boys — Leroy, a farmer ; George M., here in Eleroy, and Charles, also a farmer ; 
George M.went to school in Winona in 1863, and from there went to Minonk, 111., and 
at' ended public school until 1874 ; he then acted as clerk in the Minonk Post Office to 
the time he went to commercial college in 1875, at Peoria ; on leaving there he entered 
his uncle's grocery, and in 1876 was engaged and sent to the Centennial by several 
Chicago houses as general advertising agent ; he returned and attended normal school 
in Indiana ; having learned telegraphy in 1873 with the Western Union Telegraph Co., 
he, in 1878, was employed by the I. C. R. R., and is now occupying the above-named 
positions. In politics, George M. is a Democrat. 

G. 0. BABBITT, farmer, Sec. 13 ; P. 0. Eleroy ; born in Goshen, Hamp- 
shire Co., Mass., Aug. 20, 1799 ; his father was born in Maine, and belonged to the 
Presbyterian ministry; the family moved to Otsego Co., N. Y., when Mr. Babbit was 
3 years old ; his father engaged in farming, together with his brother ; his father and 
mother died the same year, in 1836. G. D. Babbit, left Otsego Co. and went to Sus- 
quehanna Co. in 1820, where he learned his trade — tinning — of Mr. Gibson ; went to 
Pike, Allegheny Co., and here, in the year 1825, married Liddie Johnson, of Vermont ; 
had a family of five children — Joshua, Isaac, Abbie J., Harvey C. and Calvin W.; he 
farmed in Centerville five years; went to Lewiston, Niagara Co.; he then crossed into 
Canada ; came down to Detroit, Mich., farmed five years in Branch Co.. Mich.; went then 
to Ogle Co., 111.; from there to Sugar River, Winnebago Co., and came here in 1840, 
and squatted on Sec. 13, on a farm of 96 acres. Politics, Republican. Married to his 
second wife, Miss Mary Ann Flynn, in September, 1869; his son, Calvin W., belonged 
to the 92d I. V. I.; came home in 1865 all right. 

A. BACON, farmer, Sec. 13 ; P. O. Eleroy ; born in Hamilton, Oswego Co., 
N. Y., Sept. 6, 1812 ; his father, Nastiel Bacon, died when 65, years of age, having 
had a family of nine children — Frederick, 76 years of age, died in Ripon, Wis.; Hud- 
son, aged 72, died in Green Bay, Wis.; Peter, aged 75, is living in Indiana ; Eunice B., 
aged 73, died in Ripon, Wis.; Caroline S., aged 72, lives at Union Grove, Wis.; Sally died 
is Michigan ; Polly died iu New York. A. Bacon, the subject of this sketch, lives here 
on the farm, aged 68 ; James died at Palmyra, N. Y.; Lucius died "aged 23. A. Bacon 
lived at home until 1829, engaged in farming ; he then walked into Cattaraugus Co. and 
bought a farm of 80 acres ; stayed ten years and cleared fifty acres ; about this time, 
in September, 1 83 1 , he married Miss Dorcas L. Stebbins, of New York ; they had 
three children — Philo S., Lucinda and Mary; his wife died in Kenosha in 1840 ; he 
had contracted the rheumatism, and was obliged to sell his farm, and for eight years he 
could not walk, and has never entirely recovered ; after selling, he went home to Han- 
nibal and stayed there, an invalid; getting better, he took a claim of 160 acres, but was 
not able to work, so got 60 acres, and finally sold it ; came here in March. 1S46. 
and settled on Sec. 13 ; owns now 104 acres, valued at $50 per acre ; he worked tlyve 
years ; his lameness not letting him work, he went to making window-sash ; at this he 
made money, and when the railroad came through, he bossed the hands and made good 
wages ; in 1855, he went into the mercantile business, buying out George Andrews, of 
Eleroy; first year made $1,000 clear ; after carrying on the business nine years, sold 
on account of bad health and retired. Mr. Bacon is a Democrat, and served as Justice 
of the Peace fourteen years. Supervisor nine years in succession, and Assessor one 
year. In 1841, he married Elizabeth Clark; they had two children — Lansing, in Da- 
kota now, and Frederick, a traveling man. 

CHARLES BO EKE, farmer and carpenter, Sec. 15 ; P. O. Eleroy ; born 
in Germany June 27, 1826; came to this country in 1854, and lived with his brother 



704 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES : 

in Waddams Township, Stephenson Co., 111.; his father's family consisted of eight 
children — Louisa and Herman, both decease 1 ; George, Charles, Francis, now dead; 
William was killed in the army ; Wilhemina lives in Wisconsin, and Caroline (now Mrs. 
Brigna); after living at Waddams ten years, Charles moved to his present home in 1864; 
ho owns 90 acres of land, valued at 850 an acre. In politics he is a Democrat, and 
belongs to the Lutheran Church, at Lena. In September, 1364, he married Miss 
Wilhelmina Meiser, of Germany ; they had five children — Charles is the only one alive. 
He married again in 1864, and his second wife's family consisted of Henry, Mina, 
Louisa, Frederick, Sophia, Charles, Paulina, Herman and William. 

MRS. MARY E. BOEEE, widow, Sec. 3 ; P. 0. Lena ; Francis Boeke, 
her husband, was born in Germany, June 27, 1827 ; served as a soldier in the father- 
land for five years; came from Chicago here in 1850, and engaged in making brick. 
Pec. 26, 1860, he married Mary E. Hammond, now his widow; he bought this home 
for his family, where they now live. Mr. Boeke enlisted in 1863, in the 14th, I. V. I. Co. 
I, as Lieutenant, and on May 25, 1864, was promoted to captaincy ; he came home in 
August, 1865, and, his health being shattered, he died Dec. 31, 1874, leaving her a 
life pension and the property of 10 acres of land and a fine residence. Mrs. Boeke has 
six children — John F., now in Kansas, Visente A., Edna E., Willie D., George A. and 
Lotta E. 

NATHANIEL. J. CHURCHILL., Eleroy; born in Wasco, Cayuga Co., 
N. Y., March 3, 1823; here during the early years of his life he went to school, and 
later learned carriage painting; at this trade he worked as he traveled from place to 
place ; he served his apprenticeship with Hall & Porter, Skaneateles ; went to Auburn and 
worked under instructions at ornamental work ; he traveled through Genoa, Kelicks- 
ville, Truxton, Cortland Co., De Ruyter, De Granville, to Grneva, then to Havana, 
Ithaca, Towano, Bradford, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh to Boston, 
New York City and Newark, then to Moravia, Cayugo Co., where he attended school 
in 1842; went to Wisconsin but came back and attended school in 1844, then went 
away again, to Pike Lake. Washington Co., where he bought 160 acres of land, and in 
September, 1844, he married Miss Ascenette Denure, of Canada ; by this marriage she 
had four children, only two now alive ; soon after he sold out and moved into Stephenson 
Co., 111., and settled on the old Helms farm, Sec. 19 ; in 1852, he sold this farm to 
Alfred Dan and went to railroading ; then started for St. Louis and on to the Sioux Biver, 
through Nebraska to the Ishabotany and back again, locating a mile south of Beloit, 
in Winnebago Co., 111.; he was engaged on the I. C. B. B. till 1855, and after this 
returned to his trade, for awhile working for Clapp & Co., in Freeport ; he then was 
engaged by Leightheart, Meigs & Philips, as foreman of the railroad constructing 
corps ; about this time he purchased his present home in Eleroy ; in the year 1857, went 
back to his trade again till 1861, where hft was engaged on the Freeport & Savannah B. 
R, and worked up till 1866. Dec. 5, 1865, he married a second time, to a Miss Johanna 
A. Alberts, of Utrecht, Holland, and has a family of four children — Frank H., Nathan J., 
Henry A. and Erl. Mr. Churchill is a Bepublican and has served as Justice of the 
Peace since 1871, in the town of Erin; two of his sons were soldiers in the Union 
army ; George enrolled in the 92d I. V. I., Co. A, and Scott enlisted when only 15 years 
of age. 

DR. F. A. DARLING, Eleroy; born in Spafford. Onondaga Co., N. Y., 
April 10, 1832; received his preparatory reading under Dr. Kneeland, of Livingston 
Co. ; when through there he attended lectures in Geneva, N. Y., and in 1856 received 
his certificate of Geneva College, David Hall, President ; after leaving there he went to 
Michigan, and right on to Eleroy, where he stayed, and has since established himself in 
a very fine practice ; no orher physician but Dr. Shepherd having been here ; the Dr. 
farms some, and in 1864 enlisted as 1st Lieutenant in the 142d I. V. I.; he came 
home and went out again as Captain in the 147th I. V. I., and finally came back in 
1866; he has held township offices, and is a Bepublican. In 1862, he married Miss 
C. J. Putnam, of Warren, Jo Daviess Co., 111.; they have one boy — D. J. W.; his mother, 
now 79 years of age, is living with him. 



ERIN TOWNSHIP. 705 

CONRAD FACTZMEIER, farmer and mason. Sec. 27 ; P. 0. Eleroy : 
born in Germany Jan. 10, 1817 ; he left his native land in 1854, for the shores of 
America, where he landed, and proceeded at once to Freeport; before this time he had 
learned the trade of stonemason ; finding here plenty of work, settled down, and by 
economy and perseverance amassed enough to purchase his farm on Sec. 27, of A. Van- 
sloter, embracing 120 acres; this was in 1873. He had, in 1847, married Miss Catha- 
rine Slater ; his first family was Christian, Sophia, Conrad, Mary, Anna, Lidia, 
George, Frederick. In 1865, he married again, Miss Charlotte Picking ; this family 
consisted of three — Caroline, Charles and Mina. 

ADAH FINKBINDER, farmer, Sec. 27 ; P. 0. Eleroy ; born in Germany 
in August 1850, and is one of a family of twelve children — Jacob, Rose and Dorothea, in 
Germany ; Adam and Mary here on the farm ; Gotleib, Agnes and Caroline, at Hickory 
Grove ; Richlain, Christopher and George in Kansas, and Lena, now Mrs. Mathias. 
When Adam was in the old country, he was engaged in various occupations, is an A 1 
hand in the flax factory ; he now farms 80 acres of fine land ; his father is now 66 
years of age, and his mother 65 ; her name was Rosina A. Bernhardt. Adam is a 
Republican in politics. 

CONRAD EYE, farmer and carpenter, Eleroy ; born in Bedford Co., Penn., 
on Aug. 2, 1800 ; his father moved to Cambria Co., in 1805, and there during the 
winter lost all their animals ; but they persevered and made a home there in the woods. 
In 1824, March 24, he married Miss Temperance Plummer ; they had two children — 
Susanna and Jacob ; he helped clear his father's timber land, with the promise of 100 
acres, but, being taken ill, giving up hopes of recovering, his father reclaimed his son 
Conrad's farm, who on recovering his health moved to Stephenson Co., in 1846, and 
rented a farm of Tom Gatliff, for two years, and bought 160 acres on Sec. 1, Loran 
Township ; lived there 27 years, then moved to his present home in Eleroy. He married 
Miss Sarah Rumbarger, of Pennsylvania, Feb. 13, 1834; their children were, Elizabeth, 
now Mrs. Rees; John, deceased ; Josiah, in Nebraska ; Benjamin, Daniel, David, Lewis, 
Sarah, Jeremiah, Jerome. He is a Republican, and belongs to the United Brethren in 
Christ Church, Eleroy. 

VALENTINE GILMAN, farmer, Sec. 15; P. O. Eleroy : born in Union 
Co., Penn., Aug. 7, 1829 ; his father, Daniel Gilman, brought his family to Stephen- 
son Co. in 1840 ; they were Elizabeth, Phoebe (now Mrs. Strong), Jacob (deceased), 
Catharine (now Mrs. Rosenstiel) ; Valentine, the subject of this sketch, living on the 
old homestead, where some of the old buildings still stand ; Andrew, living in Eleroy ; 
Ellen, in Kent ; Esther, a widow, in Lanark. Daniel died in 1857, and his wife in 
1853 ; they were natives of Pennsylvania. Valentine, at the age of 22, went on to an 
80 acre farm of his own, and in 1855, March 15, married Miss Elmira Ruthrauff, of 
Pennsylvania ; the ceremony took place in Eleroy ; they have a family of seven chil- 
dren — Alta V., now Mrs. F. Jones ; Emma I., married Rev. Rowel Harwood. M. E. 
minister in Orangeville. Mr. Gilman is a Republican, and belongs to the M. E. Church 
at Lena. He now owns 210 acres of land, valued at $50 per acre. Mrs. Gilman's 
mother is now living with her at the advanced age of 73. 

CHARLES GOSSMANN, farmer, Sec. 11 ; P. O. Eleroy ; born in 1840 ; 
came to America in 1842, with his father's family of three children — Charles, Louisa, 
and Hermena ; his father was married again to Wilhemina Henke, and his second 
family was Henry, William, Matilda, Paulina, Edward, Anna and Amelia ; his second 
marriage was in 1847 ; he is now living, aged 66. This family was one of the first to 
leave for America from that part of Germany, and, on arriving in Stephenson Co., 
settled on a rented place near Bobbtown, afterward on Sec. 12, Erin, and finally bought 
on Sec. 1. Charles farmed until 1862, when he enlisted in the 92d I. V. I., Co. A ; 
he came out of the army with impaired health. In 1866, he married Miss Louisa 
Miller, of Germany ; they had one child — Alfred. He was married again in 1870, 
Feb. 14, to Miss Mary Lesemann, and had a family of five — Josephine, Alvine, Flora, 
Daniel and Menetta. Mr. Charles Gossmann has been Commissioner and Assessor. He 
is a Republican, and belongs to the United Evangelical Church of Erin ; he bought 



706 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

his farm on Sec. 11, of 102 acres, in 1872, and has not had a failure of a single 
crop. 

Li. M. dJRIWSBY, farmer, Sec. 1 ; P. 0. Lena; born in Kentucky April 
20, 1820. Aaron, his father, was born in Virginia, came to Kentucky, and finally 
moved into Indiana, from there to Edgar Co., 111., in 1829; then to Iroquois in 1835; 
he left and came to Stephenson Co. in the spring of 1836; of the family, there was 
William, killed at Prairie Grove, Ark.; Matilda, deceased; Lewis M., living on the 
homestead; Nancy, now Mrs. DeGraff; Jeremiah, and Aaron, Jr., now in Kansas. 
Lewis M. struck out fur himself when 18 years old, and in 1839 or 1840, plowed where 
part of the city of Freeport now stands. In coming to the county in 1836, he met 
with an accident ; one of the wagon-wheels run over his leg ; if not for this, he could 
have jumped over the only house in Freeport, it was so small. There was Mr. Denyos 
and another family by the name of Bloss, accompanied them to Freeport ; those parties 
went over the river, while the Grigsbys passed upon this side; saw Preston's cabin, 
and Martin's, and settled on a school section, and had to move when his father took one 
on Sec. 36, in Waddams. on which he died in 1860. In 1840, Lewis M. rafted 
lumber down the river, and had, in' 1835, brought a boat down with 100,000 pounds 
of lead on board, from Hamilton's diggings, in Wisconsin. In 1843, he married Miss 
Harriet Pickard, who died in 1849, leaving one child, Sarah J., now in Kansas ; he 
remained in Waddams until 1846, and then moved to Sec. 1, Erie; he owns 260 acres; 
he ha3 been Justice of the Peace, and held other township offices. He is a Repub- 
lican ; was Abolition in 1841, on the principle that slavery should be confined within 
certain limits. He belongs to the M. E. Church. In 1852, March 10, he married 
Miss Livina M. Chaddock, of Genesee Co., N. Y ; the children are Frank, Harriet 
M., William S. and Lewis A. Frank is married and now in Waddams; Hattie 
married, and is now at Mt. Morris. 

HOFF BROTHERS, merchants, Eleroy ; their father has been engaged 
in mercantile pursuits since coming with his family to Stephenson Co., 111., and John 
and Charles have grown right up in the business, and since coming to the county in 
1856, have been successful ; the store in Buena Vista has just been closed, and William 
H HofFhas now retired from active life; his family consists of four — John, Lewis J ., 
William H., Jr., and Charles M. John, the oldest, and Charles represent the house 
now in Eleroy, which is the leading store of that busy and flourishing village. 
The Hoff Brothers carry a stock of $5,500, all new and of latest patterns, and, 
although just starting, are doing a paying business, with increasing sales every day, and 
their trade spreading out through a section of the finest agricultural country in the 
county. John Hoff is married and has one child 

HENRY HOLLIS, farmer, Sec. 35; P. O. Eleroy; born in England 
June 6. 1811, now 67 years old; when he was 32 years of age he came to the United 
States, having labored up to that time with his father ; he is one of a family of twelve 
children, and the only one now alive. Mr. Hollis bought the farm which he now owns, 
in 1846, and consists of 120 acres, on Sees. 34 and 35 ; being a man without a family, 
he got a partner named Richard Clark, who stayed with him some seven or eight years, 
but went West in 1872 and married, and in 1879 he died; his widow now lives in 
Miami, Kan. Mr. Hollis is a Democrat. 

REV. M. J. IBOtM. A\ : P. O. Lena; now presiding over the Dublin 
Circuit; he was born in Ireland, in 1850, and came to America in 1851 ; while a boy, 
attended school in Rockford, 111. ; commenced studying for the ministry in 1864 ; 
attended college in Indiana, and after three years in Chicago, went to the Suspation 
Seminary of Baltimore, and then was ordained in 1876 ; he was assigned to his present 
mission in 1879; this church building was erected in 1849; it is a stone structure 
60x30 feet on the ground, and 20 feet high ; it is nicely finished, and furnished with an 
organ, and has a seating capacity of 300; the membership now numbers sixty families. 
This organization of the Dublin Church is the oldest in the county. In 1841, a log 
church was erected by some twenty persons, and the first priest was Father Devlin ; 



ERIN TOWNSHIP. 707 

the congregation growing, a second building under Father John Cavanaugh was erected 
in 1846, but, not proving sufficient for their growing settlement, the present building 
was commenced under Father McLaughlin, and was finished under Father McO'Gara, 
costing in the neighborhood of $4,000. Mr. Doyle gave 2 acres on which the church 
buildings stand. 

D. H. IDE, farmer, Sec. 13; P. 0. Eleroy; born in Ripley Co., Ind., Aug. 
23, 1844; he went to Onondaga Co. and worked for Mr. Anthony, and went to school 
winters ; worked for one man from 14 to 22 years of age; left Onandaga Co. in 1866 
with Mr. Anthony, and came West to Stephenson Co. ; worked till 1867 with him ; in 
1868, Mr. Anthony died. Mr. Ide then worked the place for two years, and then went 
into the mercantile business, which he carried on for three months, and then moved 
on to his present farm in November, 1871 ; he owns a fine residence and 26 acres of 
land ; raises stock and grain, which he markets in Eleroy. He is a Republican and 
has been Township Clerk, and held school offices. In November, 1871, he married 
Mrs. Anthony ; their family is Ruhama, Ferry and four children — Jennie, Abbie, 
Willie and Emma ; of his fathers family two sisters live in Michigan, two brothers and 
one sister live- in the East. 

H. S. JONES and Elizabeth G. Jones settled in Eleroy, Stephenson Co., in 
June, 1846 ; he was the first Postmaster, appointed in 1847, and gave the place its 
name; bought a stock of goods in 1846, and continued the hotel and mercantile busi- 
ness eighteen years ; he built a large stone hotel in 1848. Hiram S. Jones was born in 
Vermont Dec. 24, 1804 ; Elizabeth G. Jones was born in Tompkins Co., N. Y., March 
31, 1826 ; they were both raised in New York, and came from there to Illinois. H. S. 
Jones' father's name was John Jones ; Elizabeth Gr. Jones' father's name was Isaac 
Evans. Mr. and Mrs. Jones had six children, all born at Eleroy ; the eldest, Edwin 
Eugene, is now living at Lena, 111. ; the next that is living is Florin, L., a merchant at 
Freeport ; the third, a daughter, Mrs. Carrie B. Hoff, whose husband is a merchant at 
Eleroy; the other three are dead. H. S. Jones moved to Lena in 1864, and practiced 
law there until his death, in April, 1865. 

HERMANN KLAAS, farmer and carpenter, Sec. 15 ; P. O. Eleroy ; born 
in Germany on Sept. 27, 1836 ; came to America in 1859 ; his brother, who is now in 
Kansas, came over in 1857, and when Hermann arrived here he at once went to his 
brother's farm, with whom he stayed ten years; he has a brother (William) on the same 
section ; Hermann bought, in 1862, about 22 acres to begin with, and now has 
102 acres, valued at $50jan acre, on Sees. 10 and 15. He belongs to the Evangel- 
ical Synod, and married, in 1862, Miss Rech, of Germany ; they have six children — 
Henry, Hermann, Lewis, Mina, Clara and Paul. 

CARD IiEVICA, farmer and stone-mason, Sec. 15 ; P. O. Eleroy; born in 
Lippe-Detmold, Germany, Jan. 14, 1830 ; came to Stephenson Co. in November, 1854 ; 
came to Freeport and worked for a man named Hincklemeyer ; was taken sick, and 
intended going home in the spring, but is here yet ; in 1855, he went to work on Gil- 
man's House, and when he had $300 bought his first 20 acres ; he now owns, in Sees. 10 
and 15, about 200 acres, valued at $50 an acre, which he now farms, having given up 
his trade. In 1856, he married Miss Frederica Tegles, of Germany, and they have a 
family of five children — Mina (born April 6, 1861), Louisa (born 9th of July, 1862), 
Card H. (born Nov. 3, 1864), William (born March 20, 1868), and Henry (born 
March 26, 1871). 

JOHN MANLOVE, farmer, Sec. 34 ; P. O. Eleroy ; born in Montgomery 
Co., England, fifteen miles from Saulsbury, May 24, 1820 ; left his native land in 1841 
and went to Canada, where he was engaged in cutting wood for limekilns for two or 
three years, near Moulton ; in 1845, he came down to Chicago, which was a small place 
then, and then to Stephenson Co. ; at this time the country here was infested with 
horse-thieves, and the farm that he now owns he bought of Thomas Hotchkiss, who, at 
that time, was connected with the gang, and Mr. Manlove was obliged to keep a shot- 
gun ready to protect his rights; his first house was of logs, and built entirely of oak; 
the one he now lives in was put up in 1848 ; he owns 3S0 acres, valued at $40 an acre, 



708 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

on Sec. 34. He is a Democrat, and in May, 1841, married Miss Mary Pritchard ; they 
have four children — John W. (now in Lincoln, Neb.), Edward (at home, Pathmaster), 
Thomas (deceased) and Mary A. (at home). Mr. Manlove has a brother (Thomas) now 
living in merry England. 

LUDW1G XE4M8KR. farmer, Sec 10 ; P. 0. Lena ; born in Germany in 
1823 ; served as a soldier in the old country for one and one-half years, and was engaged 
as a farmer before coming here ; left Germany in 1855, when 32 years of age, and came 
to Stephenson Co. and bought this farm of 120 acres on Sec. 10, valued at $50 an acre. 
In 1858, married Miss Wilhemina Hoffmeister, of Rock Grove ; they have five children — 
Frederick (deceased), Henry, Anna, Pauline, Charles (deceased), Mina and John. 

DR. E. H. PLASCH, Eleroy ; born in Germany 23d of June, 1832; 
he lived in his native country until 1854, when revolutionary struggles drove him to 
America ; while at home he was engaged in the study of medicine, living in Goething- 
gen, Hanover, and attending the university of that place ; on coming to this country he 
went almost immediately to Wisconsin, where he practiced medicine for ten years, and, 
having cultivated a fine ear for music, gave instruction in that art. In 1867, moved to 
Jo Daviess Co., where he taught and practiced until comiDg to this county, and located in 
Eleroy ; he is now engaged solely with bis practice, and is increasing in favor. In 1858, 
April 21, married Miss Georgeanna Wurm, of Germany; they have eight children — 
Anna, Jennie, Oscar, Ida, Herman, Emil, Lillie, Delia ; Anna is married to Mr. Joseph 
Lersch. 

WILLIAM RADERS, farmer, Sec. 34 ; P. O. Yellow Creek ; born in 
Prussia, Germany, March 10, 1854 ; came to America when 14 years of age with his 
father, August Raders. who was born in 1818, and had a family of eleven children — 
Mary, Charlie, August, Louise, Tracy, Joseph, Lizzie,William (the subject of this sketch ), 
Pauline (deceased), Mina, Tillie. William farms 182 acres, valued at $35 per acre. He 
married, in 1878, Miss Sophia Rees, of Illinois, and has one child ; he is a Democrat 
and belongs to the Catholic Church. August was a soldier and served in France when 
that nation and Prussia adjusted their difficulties. 

ABEL J. REES, farmer, Sec. 10 ; P.O.Lena; his father was born in Penn- 
sylvania in 1802, and died on the farm here in Erin in 1855 ; he visited La Salle Co. as 
early as 1835 ; in 1836, he came to Stephenson Co. and brought his family out in 
1837 ; they were Daniel J., now in Kansas ; Abel J., here on the farm ; Lucinda, now 
Mrs. Kaufman ; George W., in St. Paul ; John, now in Kent, and Martha Jane, 
deceased ; the family settled at Rock Run, and Abel's father worked at the cooper's 
trade; sold his quarter-section there and came here in 1847; he bought of J. D. 
Hinckley ; in 1855, Abel took the farm and now owns 160 acres on Sec. 10. Mr. Rees 
was born in Pennsylvania, Sept. 12, 1834; received an education at district schools ; has 
held township and school offices; is a Republican. In 1864, he married Miss Phcebe 
Denurr, of Canada, and has four children — U. Grant, George E., Flora M., Abel M. 
and one deceased; he had three brothers in the service — Daniel J. belonged to the 15th 
I. V. ; George E., to the 92d I. V. I., Co. G ; John, to the 146th I. V. I. 

JOHN II. REES, farmer, Sec. 24 ; P. O. Eleroy ; born in Pennsylvania, Nov. 
13, 1834 ; came to Stephenson Co. in 1850, with his father, Simeon Rees, and family of 
seven children — Catherine A., deceased ; John M., here ; James M.,a minister of Free- 
port ; Enos S., also a preacher out in Kansas ; W. H. Ludwick, deceased; Abbot G., 
farming on Sec. 36 ; Joshua F., deceased, and Eleanor L , now Mrs. Lemon, of Monti- 
cello, Iowa. The family lived in Loran, and then moved on an 80-acre piece which 
was the first part of what is now called the Rees estate, consisting of 227 acre3 ; his 
father had this all purchased by 1857, and in 1863, he died; Abbot G. now holds part 
of the old estate together with W. H. Ludwick's widow, he having died in 1870. John 
M. moved to his present home in 1861 ; he owns 160 acres on Sec. 24 ; has held 
township and school offices ; is now serving as Road Commissioner ; is a Democrat. In 
1858, he married Miss Elizabeth Fye, of Pennsylvania ; they have seven children — Elea- 
nor ; Charles W., deceased ; Daniel F., James M., Herbert V., William H. and Sydney J. 



ERIN TOWNSHIP. 709 

Mr. Rees belongs to the Lutheran Church, called Babb's, in charge of Rev. Peter Gheen; 
their Sunday school numbers 60 members, of which Mr. Rees is the Superintendent ; the 
church building is 45x60, and 65 feet high to top of steeple ; it was erected in 1861. 

HENRY ROSENSTEIL, fanner, Sec. 12; P. 0. Lena; born in Ger- 
many Aug. 22, 1827; his father's family was Louisa, now Mrs. Gossman ; Charles 
Christian, Henry and Frederick ; Charles was in Stephenson Co., in 1840, and the 
rest of the family came in 1842 and settled on Sec. 12, northwest half, and entered nine 
forties ; of this, Henry owns 160 acres, valued at $50 per acre. In fall of 1848, he married 
Miss Jane Picard, of New York, and has seven children — Lorenzo, now living on 
part of the old farm ; Loran, deceased ; Lewis, now in Kansas ; Harlow, at home ; Her- 
man, Josephine and Charles O., now at home. Mr. H. Rosensteil is a Republican ; 
belongs to the M. E. Church of Lena. His brother Fred lives on east half of Sec. 12 ; 
John has been here since 1840, and is in the sugar-factory south of the city of 
Freeport. 

J. V. SNOW, P. O. Freeport; grain and stock dealer at Eleroy ; was born in 
Loran, Mass., June, 1837 ; the family moved to Stephenson Co. in November, 1837, 
when he was but 5 months old ; his father kept Silver Creek House, just east of 
Freeport, in 1840, and farmed; had 640 acres on Sec. 1 ; in 1859, being tired of farm- 
ing, he rented the farm and moved into Freeport, where he died, in 1866 ; his wife, J. 
V. Snow's mother, died previously, in the year 1856, on the farm ; his father lived on 
his income till death ; the old family consisted of nine children — Malvina, married to 
Mr. Taylor, now living in Freeport; Oscar, died on the farm, in 1859 ; Marion, now in 
Freeport ; Nicholas Mortimer, died 7 years of age in Freeport; two died without names ; 
then Charles, who now lives in Freeport, engaged as a traveling man, and Ellen, who 
was married to Mr. Babcock, and died in 1854. Mr. Snow, in early life, commenced 
by learning his a b c's of his brother-in-law, Mr. Taylor, who also taught his brother 
Charles and sister Ellen ; he attended school when 8 years old, and lived at home with 
his father and farmed until he was 22 years of age, when the farm was rented to 
Green and Edmund*, and the family came to Freeport. J. V. Snow at this period of 
his life engaged in the lightning-rod business, and, in June, 1879, went into his present 
occupation, buying grain and stock at Eleroy,which has developed by his energy into as 
busy a grain point as any in the county. Mr. Snow is a Republican, and, in April, 
1865, married Miss Julia E. Hitchcock, of Glen's Falls, N. Y. 

JOHN STOUT, farmer, Sec. 25 ; P. O. Eleroy ; born near Reading, Berks 
Co., Penn., Sept. 23, 1805 ; he worked on the farm and went to school ; in 1818, moved 
to Union Co. ; at 18 years of age learned tanning, but afterward went to distilling ; his 
health then failing, he returned to school and then clerked until 1832, when he married 
Miss Sarah Kryder, of Pennsylvania ; in June, the 15th, he engaged in tanning until 1848, 
having run a tannery of his own fourteen years ; he came West and bought land of 
James Murphy; he still holds his farm of 200 acres, valued at $50 an acre; has held 
the office of Justice, Clerk, Assessor and Commissioner ; is a Democrat and has belonged 
to church since 16 years of age; now attends the Lutheran. His family consists of 
three sons — R. G. is now on the old homestead farming, and is Supervisor of Erin ; H. 
E. is now in Iowa, and Robert C. is a pharmacist and now teaching school. Of his 
father's family, there were Susan, Jacob, David, Samuel, Catherine and John, being the 
elder. 

FRANK R. TOWER, farmer, Sec. 2 ; P. O. Lena; born Aug. 4, 1845, 
on the homestead ; Frank's father, Reuben Tower, was born in Massachusetts in 1796; 
came to Stephenson Co., in 1844 with his family, and took up a claim of 160 acres on 
Sec. 2 ; his children were Marcus, now in Warren ; Amasa, in Richland,' Wis.; Corne- 
lia, deceased ; Angeline, deceased ; Catherine, now Mrs. Brewster ; Mary, deceased ; 
Frank R., Sarah N. and Dorothea D. Frank R., on Dec. 12, 1859, married Miss Mary 
L. Bacon, of Wisconsin, and has one child — Rose E., born Sept. 29, 1870; he has held 
township and school offices. Is a Republican ; owns 40 acres of the homestead ; his 
father, Capt. Reuben Tower, died April 3, 1880, at home ; during his eventful life he 
had lived in Vermont in 1815, in Norwalk, Ohio, 1818, in La Porte, Ind., 1824, in 



710 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

McHenry Co., 111., in 1843, and, among other things, ground twenty bushels of buck- 
wheat in a coffee-mill ; in 1867, he joined the Baptist Church of Lena, and was a 
stanch Republican. 

MRS. CATHERINE WEISEN; P. 0. Eleroy ; born in Ireland ; in 
1836 ; came to Stephenson Co. in 1856 ; she here met and married Mr. Kennedy, in 
August, and then moved out to his farm on Sec. 22 ; he was a good scholar, having 
taught in Cork College, in Ireland, and being Notary Public, also, School District Treas- 
urer ; her maiden name was Catherine Monogue, of Calvin, County Kilkenny ; she now 
owns 160 acres, valued at $50 an acre. The Kennedy family consisted of four children 
— James, at home ; John, near Savannah ; Catherine, now Mrs. F. Maha, and Mary 
Ann. In 1867 she married again, Mr. J. Weisen ; they were married on the farm ; 
by the second marriage she had one child, named Joseph E.; Mr. Weisen was born in 
Germany, and worked in this country on his father's place till his father's death, when 
he fell heir to some 20 acres ; by trade he was a blacksmith. 

JOHN WINTERS, blacksmith, Eleroy ; born in Lebanon Co., Penn., Dec. 
29, 1834; came to Stephenson Co. in 1847, with his father's family, and stayed in 
Oneco for two years, then moved on to Sec. 35, Erin, where his father, Christopher 
Winters, died Feb. 28, 1878 ; his mother is now 78 years of age. The old family con- 
sisted of some fourteen or fifteen children ; his brother Cyrus now lives on the old 
homestead, which he now owns; and John, who was 13 years of age on coming to the 
county, farmed until 1855, then learned the trade of blacksmith, and had his shop ou 
Sec. 35, from 1859 to 1863 ; then came here in Eleroy, and has by his skill and strict 
attention to business established himself. On Sept. 24, 1857, he married Miss Cornelia 
Johnson, of Ohio, and has seven children — John A., Flora P., Ida B., Christopher, 
Archie, Gertrude and Maude. Mr. Winters was a soldier in the war of the rebellion ; 
he belonged to the 42d I. V. I., Co. G ; five of his brothers were serving during the 
entire war. 

E. H. WOOD BRIDGE, Eleroy ; born in St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., Nov. 
11, 1821 ; he stayed with the family till 1835 ; and, having learned the carpenter's trade 
at 14 years of age, went to Ohio, and worked at his trade in Franklin, Portage Co. ; 
from there he moved to Wisconsin in 1843, and engaged in making brick, teaming and 
other things ; he then moved to Eleroy, in Erin Township, in the month of June, 1847 ; 
here he lives on his own property, and when not engaged in farming is serving the 
public in different offices ; he is now Assessor of Erin ; has been Township Clerk, Col- 
lector and Constable. He is a Democrat; and on Sept. 1, 1844, married Miss Eliza 
Denure, of New York ; they have three children — the eldest is dead — the next is 
Cora A., and the last child Fannie May. 



ONECO TOWNSHIP. 

JOHN W. BAU9IGARDNER, with Deal & Swartz, Orangeville; born 
in Stephenson Co., 111., Nov. 27 ; he went to Western College, at Western, Lynn 
Co., Iowa, took a classical course, and graduated in 1878; then he went into busi- 
ness there, but closed out and came to Orangeville, and went in with Deal & Cq., gen- 
eral merchandise, and has been here since. In 1876, Aug. 17, he married Miss Fran- 
ces Owen, of Pennsylvania, who was born in April, 1854 ; their child is named Katie 
C. Mr. Baumgardner is now studying for the United Brethren ministry ; his father 
died in 1855 ; his mother, Catharine, while a widow living at Buckeye Center, married 
Martin Bender, who died in 1876, in the fall ; she is now living with her sister on the 
old estate. 

D. JL. BEAR, farmer, Sec. 33 ; P. O. Orangeville ; born in Lehigh Co., Penn., 
May 21, 1834; came to Stephenson Co. in 1842, with father, mother, his sister Mary 
(now Mrs. Shipton), and brothers John G., Willoughby and Peter J. D. L. Bear settled 
on Sec. 33 in 1863 ; owns 235 acres. May 6, 1858, he married Miss Susanna Wohlford, 



ONECO TOWNSHIP. 711 

of Pennsylvania, who was born in Center Co. March 15, 1836 ; their family consists of six 
children — Lucy A., Aaron Willard, Peter D. L., Christ Benjamin, John H. and 
David E. (twins). Mr. Bear has held township and school offices, belongs to the United 
Brethren Church, and is a Republican in politics. 

WILLOUGHBY BEAR, farmer, Sec. 19 ; P. 0. Orangeville ; born in 
Union Co., Penn., March 20, 1838 ; learned the trade of mason and bricklaying ; came 
West to Stephenson Co. in 1841 ; now lives on the old homestead, where his father died 
in 1850, and his mother in 1864 ; he now owns 95 acres of land, valued at $50 an acre. 
In 1861, he was married to Miss Rebecca Hartman, of Pennsylvania; they have six 
children — Sarah Jane (now Mrs. A. Fahr), Mary A., Ida L., Howard C, Bertha R. and 
Wilson G. Mr. Bear has been Road Commissioner, School Trustee, and is a member 
of the United Brethren Church and Sabbath-School Superintendent. In politics, he is 
a Republican. 

B. P. BELKNAP, farmer, Sec. 31 ; P. 0. Orangeville ; born in Vermont, 
Dec. 24, 1811. In 1836, he was married to Miss Deborah Beebe, of Vermont ; moved 
to Albany, N. Y., and went into the coal business; in 1839, he started West, and walked 
from Milwaukee to Monroe, Wis., and then to Gratiot; his wife came in 1841 ; they 
stopped with the Brewster family on Sec. 25, then moved on the farm where they now 
reside, consisting of 140 acres, and, with the exception of six years in Monroe, Wis., 
have been here since. Mr. Belknap taught the first school in Oneco Township, at 
Aaron Denio's house, in 1840. The children are Mary (now Mrs. Everett ), Lattig 
(deceased), Hannah (now Mrs. Mulks), Corwin (who has served in the 46th I. V. I. 
Co. A), F. C, Edwin C., Lillie M., Edwin (deceased) and Laura (deceased). Mr. Bel- 
knap has been Constable, Coroner and Commissioner of Highways. 

FRANKLIN BOLENDER, farmer, Sec. 29 ; P. 0. Orangeville ; born 
in Union (now Snyder) Co., Penn., Jan. 30, 1834 ; came to Stephenson Co. in 1840 with 
his father, Michael, who was accompanied by the well-known old settlers Brother John 
Bolender, Johu Kleckner, Michael Gift and George Mowry. Michael's family were 
Caroline, Lewis, Frank, Henry, Harrison and Benjamin, living in Pennsylvania. 
Michael Bolender settled on the farm where he is now living, aged 78, being now entirely 
blind since 1878; the rest of his family was born in Oneco Township — Michael, Mary, 
Anna and Amelia. Franklin is now farming part ol the old estate, and owns 80 acres on 
Sec. 30, since 1875. On Jan. 30, 1868, he was married to Miss Susan Rockey, of Penn- 
sylvania ; their children are Charles, Oscar, Edwin, Emma and William (deceased. Mr. 
Bolender has been Assessor and has held school offices. Religion, Reformed Church ; 
in politics, a Republican. 

HARRISON W. BOLENDER, of the firm ofSchoch & Bolender, 
proprietors of Orangeville Creamery ; came to the county with his father and family in 
1840; the family consisted of Caroline, now Mrs. Reubendoll ; Lewis, on Sec. 29, 
Oneco ; Frank, same Section ; Henry, on Sec. 30 ; Harrison W., the subject of this 
sketch ; Mary, now Mrs, Marion ; Anna L., now Mrs. Fahr ; Amelia, now Mrs. Bel- 
knap, on Sec. 30; an infant and Peter, deceased; mother died in June, 1878; Harri- 
son W., was born in Union Co., Penn., Nov. 18, 1839 ; at the age of 18, he worked 
with his brother Lewis, as architect and builder ; in 1875, went into the wind-mill business, 
under the name of Swartz & Bolender ; gave up, and is now partner of the firm of 
Schoch & Bolender, Orangeville Creamery. In 1870, he, married Miss Mary Wagner, 
of Illinois ; their children are Anna, Michael (dead), Helen and Stephen. Mr. 
Bolender was in the 46th I. V. I., Co. A, and was wounded in the arm, shoulder and 
thigh ; he was one of the Trustees and member of the Board of Education ; he is a 
Republican in politics. 

AARON BOWER, farmer, Sec. 35 ; P. O. Orangeville ; born in Union Co., 
Penn., Feb. 11, 1840 ; the party that came West consisted of father, Abraham Bower, 
himself and sister Mary, now Mrs. Naramore. living at Lena; in the spring of 1851, 
they settled here, on Sec. 35 ; here he now lives, owns 210 acres of land. In 1863, he 
married Miss Amelia Hackenberg, of Pennsylvania, has a family of five children — Cora, 



712 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Eluoa, Cornelia, Isabelle, Otto A. and Melvin Mr. Bower's wife belongs to the M. E. 
Church. 

JOHM BOWER, retired farmer, Orangeville ; born in Union Co., Penn., 
June 30, 1805; visited Stephenson Co. in 1843, and returned for his family; on 
coming West then, he settled in Oneco, in April, 1816 ; while in Pennsylvania, he 
learned the carpenter trade, which he followed until coming West ; in the spring of 
1816, he located on Sec. 36, and built not four rods from where the Orangeville tavern 
now stands; he had also bought the water-power, and in 1848, started Bower's grist 
mill, now called White Hall Mills ; he laid out the village of Orangeville, then called 
Bowerville, and now owns considerable town property, together with the hotel, which 
his son William runs. In 1826, he married Miss Susanna Riehe, of Pennsylvania, who 
was born in 1807, and is now living with him; their family are Martin, Mary, now 
dead ; Moses, John, Benjamin. Martet, deceased ; William, landlord of Orangeville 
hotel ; Catharine, now Mrs. Hayman. Mr. Bower belongs to the Reform Church. 

DR. B. H. BRADSHAW, physician and surgeon, Orangeville; born in 
Guernsey, Belmont Co., Ohio, Sept. 29, 1834, and came to Freeport in 1855, and 
in Feb. 20, 1861, graduated in the Rush Medical College, of Chicago. On the 
breakiDg-out of the war, he enlisted in the 46th I. V. I., Co. G ; was detailed as 
Assistant Surgeon, and then, finally, on the 12th of Sept., 1862, commissioned 
Surgeon ; was mustered out with regiment in 1866 ; Jan. 31, came to Orangeville 
and commenced practice in the field formerly held by Dr. W. P. Naramore, and now 
has a very nice busiuess. In 1868, Jan. 1, he married Miss Mary E. Cadweil, of 
Illinois ; their children are Caroline P. and George T. Dr. B. belongs to the M. E. 
Church ; he is a Republican in politics. 

CHARL.ES A. CABWEL.L., farmer, Sec. 32 ; P. 0. Orangeville ; was 
born in Oneco Township, Stephenson Co., 111., June 24, 1848, on the homestead which 
his father had claimed in 1839, aud in 1841 took possession ; his father died in 1873; 
his mother, in 1877, leaving seven children — Mary C., Horace, Charles A. (the subject 
of this sketch), Abbie, Emily, Isaac and Helen ; Charles has conducted the estate since 
1872. In 1871, was married to Miss Amanda Fahr of Orangeville, Stephenson Co., 
Ill ; their children are Mary E. and a pair of twins, Benjamin and Bertha. Mr. 
Cadweil has been a teacher ; has held school offices ; in politics, he is a Republican. 

W. H. CLARNO, farmer, Sec. 34 ; P. O. Orangeville ; born in Tazewell Co., 
111., April 3, 1835. Grandfather, John H. Clarno, came from France to Virginia, 
where John Hunter Clarno was born, who then moved to Ohio, and married Miss Jane 
Plimel, of that State, and in 1832 moved to Illinois, and was elected Captain in a com- 
pany during the Black Hawk war; moving to Stephenson Co., Aug. 16, 1838, he 
located on Sec. 34, where he entered 280 acres ; the family then were father, who 
died Jan. 12, 1858; mother, who died April 21, 1877, and ten children; Jane, now 
Mrs. Bailey ; Andrew, Francis (deceased), one daughter (deceased) ; W. H., the subject 
of this sketch; John M., Hariette, now Mrs. Foans ; Joseph, James, M. and Francis 
are dead. W. H. Clarno now is sole owner of the old estate, having 200 acres. On 
Nov. 22, 1860, he married Miss Mary C. Kyler, of Pennsylvania; their children are 
Mary Jane, Sarah E., John H., Oliver P., Anthony J., Aaron A., M. Lewella, Stella 
V., J. Albert. Mr. Clarno has held township and school offices. Republican in politics. 

H. R. DEAL*, Orangeville ; born in 1851, in Oneco, Stephenson Co., 111. ; after 
he common experience of youth in the country, he entered the store of his father 
father as clerk in 1876, and afterward went to Monroe and followed the same occupa- 
tion ; returning in 1877, he went to work for J. Musser in September of that year- 
where he now clerks. In 1872, he married Miss M. Alifie Ritzman, of Pennsylvania, 
W. E. and Villian I. are his children. Mr. Deal belongs to the Board of Trustees. 

S. E. DEAL, merchant, Orangeville; born Oct. 19, 1825, in Northampton 
Co., Penn ; he lived with his parents in Philadelphia, in 1831 ; in Lycoming Co., in 
1839, and learned the carpenter's trade, and came to Stephenson Co. in the spring of 
1848; worked at his trade till his eyesight failed in 1857, when he went to farming; 



ONECO TOWNSHIP. 713 

but in 1863 moved to Oneco, and then to Orangeville in 1870 ; opened a grocery and 
confectionery in 1874, and since has continued in business until now. He carries a 
stock of general merchandise worth $6,000. and does a trade of over $20,000 per annum ; 
the firm is known as Deal & Swartz. In 1847, he married Miss Catherine Ray horn, 
of Pennsylvania, who died Aug. 19, 1874. Was married again to Miss Mary Bumgart- 
ner, then Mrs. Bechtol ; their children are Henry R., Mary C. (now Fahr). Mr. Deal 
has belonged to the U. B. for forty years, and has held office most of the time. 

J. C. DORN, farmer, Sec. 35 ; P. O. Oraugeville ; born in Cortland Co.j 
N. Y., Feb. 21, 1817 ; mother died in 1826, father in 1827, leaving him an orphan at 
the age of 10; lived with his uncle till 1838, and taught school in New York, Miss- 
issippi, Illinois and Ohio. He visited Illinois in 1843, and bought a farm on Sec. 35, of 
160 acres; went back to Ohio, and Dec. 31, 1844, married Miss Betsy Hayward, of 
Ohio. He has taught school here in the West, and also music, to the early settlers. 
Mr. Dorn has been Justice of rhe Peace since 1866; has been School Treasurer and 
Clerk of Board ; the children are Lavina, died when 4 weeks old ; Mary, died when 
3i years old; John Quincy, died when 5£ years old; Nancy, John, Charles P. (dentist 
in Naperville ; ) Helen, now Mrs. Wagner, George D. and Amelia A. Presbyterian in 
religion. 

GEORGE ERB, retired farmer, Orangeville ; born in Union Co., Penn., 
Aug. 12, 1808 ; came to Stephenson Co. in 1854, and went on to a farm on Sec 33, but 
finally moved into the town of Orangeville. On Feb. 16, 1830, he married Miss Mary 
Ann Gross, of Pennsylvania ; his first family consists of twelve children ; this wife died 
in 1858. Married again, in the fall of 1860, to Miss Julia Ann Woodring ; all his 
first family are dead but two ; those living are Sophaiel, Catharine (now Mrs. Smith), 
Ida May, Amanda E. Henry and Isaac enlisted in Co. G, 93d I. V. I.; Henry was 
wounded and taken prisoner at Altoona, and died ; Isaac was killed at Champion Hill. 
Mr. Erb is Trustee of the village, and an Elder in the Lutheran Church. 

JOHN F. FINK, clerk, with J. Musser, Orangeville ; came to Stephenson 
Co. in 1850, with his father, Joshua, whose family consisted of mother (maiden name 
Elizabeth Kaufman), children — George (deceased), Charles, Matilda (deceased), Jonas 
D. VV. (a preacher, in Lisbon. Iowa), Sarah (now Mrs. Moore), John F., Maria (de- 
ceased), Thomas J. (a preacher), and Mary E. (now Mrs. C. W. Anthony). John F. 
was born in Allentown, Lehigh Co., Penn., Dec. 23, 1844, and engaged in the woolen 
business in 1868. and afterward carried on the insurance business till 1877, and then 
came to Orangeville as a clerk in J. Musser's establishment. In 1866, he married Miss 
Mary A. Nagle, of Pennsylvania; they have two childreu — J. W. Ellis (deceased), 
and Vida Delight, now 7 years old. Mr. Fink has held the offices of Trustee, Clerk 
and Collector, and is now Clerk of the Board of Education. He is a Republican in pol- 
itics, and a member of the M. E. Church. 

JACOB FISHER, farmer, Sec. 33 ; P. O. Orangeville ; born in Union Co., 
Penn., Feb. 21, 1806, and stayed in Clinton Co. for eighteen years; then started VY est, 
stopping in Rock Grove, June 6, 1847; then he moved on to Sec. 28, Oneco Township, 
in 1848, where he built the house which is now occupied by his son John ; he having 
since moved to Sec. 33, where he now lives ; owns 200 acres of farm land. On Feb. 
22, 1829, he married Miss Maria Kayhorn, of Pennsylvania ; they have one son — John 
Fisher, born Oct. 29, 1829; has held township offices; belongs to Lutheran Church; 
politics. Democrat. His father's family consisted of thirteen children ; his mother's maiden 
name was Christina Walmar. 

JACOB FYE, farmer, Sec 34; P. O. Orangeville; born in Centre Co., 
Penn., Feb. 10, 1839 ; came to Stephenson Co. in the fall of 1839, with his father, 
David Fye, and family, consisting of eight children — John (living in Nebraska), Sarah 
(now Mrs. Zettle"), Jacob (the subject of this sketch), Mary (now Mrs. Kohr); beside 
these, David and Rebecca live in Pennsylvania yet; and one died in 1853, named 
Katie. On coming West, settled first in Dakota Township; lived there until 1868, 
when he sold out and moved to this farm of 80 acres, valued at $50 an acre ; his father 
died in 1872 ; his mother is still living, and will be 83 years old July 9, 1880. On Dec. 



714 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

22. 1864, he married Miss Sarah Lanker, of Dauphin Co., Penn., and has nine children 
— Katie H., Edwin P., Samuel W., Minnie L., Levi F., Arthur H.. Alice L., Boydd M. 
and Bessie E. Mr. Fye belongs to the M. E. Church. 

LEWIS GIBLER, Oneco; born in Shenandoah Co., Va., Nov. 1, 1799, 
moved to Ohio, Ross Co., in 1802, and put up the first mill built in that county ; Jacob 
Philip and John, his brothers, served in the war of 181 '3 ; father died in 1818, Jan. 
10 ; mother died in 1836. Mr. Gibler, in 1819, married Miss Margaret Van Metre, of 
Ohio, and, in 1828, came West and worked in the mines, with wife's brother, John J., 
James and Abraham ; he sold out his share and returned to Ohio ; went to farming ; in 
1839, came to Stephenson Co. and settled on Sec. 1. having a farm of 300 acres ; 
moved to Wisconsin and came to the village of Oneco, in 1855; lived in Freeport and 
settled here again, where his wife died Oct. L'4, 1878 ; she was the mother of thirteen 
children, grand mother of sixty, and great-grandmother of forty-four; she was buried in 
Mt. Pleasant Cemekry ; children are Morgan, John, Sarah, Jesse, Mary, Jefferson, 
dead ; Prucilla, Lewis B., Joseph H., William, Margaret and Catherine. Held township 
and school offices ; belongs to Christian Church, and Democrat in politics. 

MICHAEL GIET, retired farmer, Orangeville ; born in Union Co., Penn., 
Jan. 3, 1816; there he learned the trade of blacksmith and worked at the trade three 
years, and, in 1840, came here to Stephenson Co., in company with his wife's family, 
her father, John Kleokner, and her mother, with four children ; Charles Kleckner, wife 
and family, and the subject of this sketch, located first in Rock Grove. In 1843, he 
married Miss Ann E. Kleckner, and moved on to his farm on Sec. 19, Oneco Township ; 
he now owns 300 acres, and, in 1877, in the fall, he moved to Orangeville. His son, 
William H., lives on Sec. 21 ; Mary E., now Mrs. Potts, and George T., on Sec. 19, are 
the children. Mr. Gift has held township and school offices; Republican, Lutheran. 

REV. R. A. HARWOOO, Pastor of M. E. Church, Orangeville; born 
in Stephenson Co., 111., in 1852, May 16; he attended school at Mt. Morris, in 1875 and 
1876, and afterward went to Rock River Seminary, under Principal M. C. Dougherty ; 
he then taught school and farmed till September, 1877, when he concluded to enter the 
ministry ; in September, he was licensed to preach ; in 1878, admitted to Conference, and 
October of same year, took the Orangeville Circuit of McConnell's Grove, Winslow, 
Oneco, Pleasant Hill and Franklin. In 1876, Dec. 24, he married Miss Emma I. 
Gilman, of Illinois; they have one child, named Miner, 16 months old ; his mother 
came to the county in 1848, and is now living at Eleroy ; his father died in 1834. 

LYMAN HULBURT, farmer, Sec. 32; P. O. McConnell's Grove; born 
in Easton, Madison Co., N. Y., Feb. 11, 1809; went to Chautauqua Co. in 1819, and 
came West in 1837, his father having died in 1825 ; the party consisted of mother, 
himself and wife, with two children ; settled first in Winslow Township, in spring of 
1838 ; located on Sec. 33, Oneco Township, where he owns 120 acres of land. He was 
married, 1833, in Chautauqua Co., N. Y., to Miss Jane Cross, who was born iu 1816 ; 
their children are Delos, Ira, Mary, now Mrs. Diveley : Lyman, who was killed at Chatta- 
nooga, a member of the 93d I. V. I., Co. C, and John. Mr. Hulburt belongs to the 
Christian Church at Mt. Pleasant. 

GEORGE KLINE, farmer, Sec. 28 ; P. O. Orangeville ; born in Union Co.' 
Penn., Nov. 26, 1831 ; in his younger days, worked with his father at blacksmithing ; 
in 1856, came West on a visit, and went back to get his wife and two children, and in 

May 27, 1867, settled on Sec. 28; bought a farm of D. S. Young, containing 82 acres, 
but afterward became possessor of more land, and now owns 152 acres, valued at $50 
an acre. In 1854, was married to Miss Caroline Benfer, of Pennsylvania; have a 
family of four children — S. Ellen, M. Emma, Laura A., an infant, now deceased, and 
Jesse M. Mr. Kline is now Road Commissioner, being elected in the spring of 1880 ; 
in polities, a Republican. Two of his brothers were soldiers in the war of the rebellion 
— Eli Kline and L. S. Kline. 

CHARLES LESTIKOW, farmer, Sec. 33 ; P. O. Orangeville ; born in 
Prussia, Germany, June 4, 1835 ; landed in New York Oct. 3, 1864 ; came West 



ONECO TOWNSHIP. 715 

and settled on this farm on Sec. 33, Oneco Township, in the spring of 1865 ; owns 95 
acres, valued at $45 an acre. In 1864, on Christmas, he married Miss Minnie 
Hubner, also a native of Germany ; they have five children — Rudolph, Emma, Jennie, 
Charles and Anna. Mr. Lestikow is a member of the M. E. Church, and Republican 
in politics. 

JOHN McDAXIEL, merchant, Oneco; born in Ohio, Dec. 10, 1815; 
came to Stephenson Co. June 12, 1849; settled on Sec. 20, Oneco Township, and 
farmed till 1880, when he moved to the village of Oneco and opened a grocery store on 
February 19 ; he now owns 25 acres in the village and the store and residence. On Nov. 
28, 1837, he married Miss Nancy Walton, of Ohio ; two children — Melinda J. and 
Mary E. Belongs to Christian Church. 

J. H. MILLER, book keeper with J. Musser, Orangeville ; came to Stephen- 
son Co. with his father, Charles S. Miller, and mother, Elizabeth, nee Dersham. J. 
H. Miller was born in Union Co., Penn., Oct. 23, 1852; came to this county, and, in 
1871, took a commercial course at the college at Naperville ; then taught school; 
however, he returned and took a course in penmanship, and taught that art until enter- 
ing the employ of B. & J. Musser as book-keeper, where he has been to this time. 
On Nov. 4, 1877, he married Miss Lila C. Bobb, of Illinois. Evangelical in religion. 

DANIEL MOORE, retired farmer, Oneco; born in Union Co., Penn., 
Aug. 2, 1814; learned the mason's trade, and in Pennsylvania constructed a cellar for 
Br. Van Valzee, one of the first settlers and physicians of Stephenson Co. Mr. Moore 
came to the county in 1868, and finally settled on Sec. 25, and owns a farm of 120 
acres there now. In 1836, Oct. 16, he married Miss Rachel Rudy, of Dauphin Co., 
Penn. ; they have nine children — Phoebe A., deceased ; William R., Catharine D., 
now Mrs. Kline ; Amelia B., now Mrs. P. Strahan ; Sarah E., now Mrs. Fred Winter ; 
Mary Jane, now Mrs. Kline; Thomas James, deceased; John H., deceased, and 
Rachel E., deceased. Himself and wife attend the M. E. Church. His son William 
was a soldier belonging to the 46th I. V. I., Co. A, of which he was Second Lieuten- 
ant ; he was wounded at Jackson, Miss. 

E. T. MOORE, miller, Orangeville; came to Stephenson Co. in 1848, with 
his father and family ; they stopped in Cedarville, and run the mill for John H. Adams ; 
removed to Freeport, and at one time run the old Lurch mill, which is now destroyed ; 
in 1866, they moved to Orangeville and bought the flouring-mill of Hetty & Legler, 
which E. T. Moore now runs ; the mill is 40x60 feet on the ground, and three and a 
half stories high, running three pair of buhrs with the Leffler water-wheel, Turbine, 
capacity 200 bushels a day. The old family is Ann S., now Mrs. Kaufman ; Edward 
T., Oscar C, deceased ; Rebecca, now dead ; Aaron, deceased ; Agnes A., now Mrs. 
Wade ; William H., now dead ; John J., now dead ; Ellen R., now Mrs. Tucker ; and 
Mary A., deceased. E. T. Moore was born in Northampton Co., Penn., in 1832 ; has 
been a miller all his life. In 1859, he married Miss Sarah Fink, of Pennsylvania; he 
has a family of six children — Anna, Stephen, Tillie, Mary, Arthur and Stella. He has 
held township offices. Is Evangelical in religion, and a Democrat in politics. 

CHARL.ES MUSSER, farmer, Sec. 32 ; P. O. Orangeville ; born in 
Center Co., Penn., Dec. 15, 1844 ; his father, Jonas, died in 1855 ; Charles was 
engaged in farming and clerking before coming West to Stephenson Co. in 1858 ; he 
clerked for J. M. Smith, of Buena Vista, then for Kennegy & Delhauer, and afterward 
for J. & B. Musser, of Orangeville. Jan. 4, 1869, he was married to Miss Mary A. 
Pollock ; in 1870, he bought 160 acres of land, his present farm ; raises grain and stock ; 
has two children — Thomas O. and Winnefred M. Mr. M. has held school offices, and 
served in the war in Co. A, 46th I. V. I. 

EMANUEL MUSSER, farmer, Sec. 19; P. O. Orangeville; born in 
Center Co., Penn., Jan. 13, 1826. In 1855, he was married to Miss Harriet Confer, 
of Pennsylvania, and farmed for two years in Center Co. ; then came West to Stephen- 
son Co., 111. ; in 1857, he bought a farm of 120 acres on the Kleckner place ; built a 
residence in 1875, and cleared 50 acres: he now has 100 acres under the plow. He 



716 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

has held township and school offices ; in religion is Lutheran, and in politics a Repub- 
lican. He has five children — Mary C, Emma A., William A., C. Bo\d and Meda M. 

JFAM.ES MUSSER, merchant, Orangeville ; born in Centre Co., Penn., 
1843; came to Stephenson Co., in 1857, and attended school at Orangeville, afterward 
at Beloit, where in 1861, he joined a company, which not being accepted, he jnined the 
46th I. V. I., Co. A; having served three years, he re-enlisted in December, 1863, and 
came home in 1865, having served in the war of the rebellion for four years and six 
months, lacking ten days ; he entered the commercial business with his brother on Sept. 
10, 1866 ; the firm, under the name of B. & J. Musser, in one year, did $85,000 worth 
of business, and employed seven men in different departments ; Mr. J. Musser now car- 
ries about $14,000 in stock; the firm of B. & J. dissolved in 1876. In 1870, 
he married Miss Kate E. Zimmerman, of Pennsylvania ; they have three children — 
Herbert A., Mabel E. and Royston ; has held township offices. Republican in politics. 

MICHAEL MUSSER, real estate broker, Orangeville ; born in Gregg 
Township, Centre Co., Penn., in 1833 ; came with his parents and family to Stephenson 
Co. in 1856 ; lived on the farm, Sec. 2, Buckeye Township. On Jan. 10, 1870, he 
married Miss Sarah Wohlford, of Illinois, and has two sons — Johu B., born in 1873, and 
Logan C, born in 1878. Mr. Musser moved to Orangeville aud entered the firm of B. 
& J. Musser, general merchandise, in 1870, and in 1877 withdrew, and has been engaged 
in real estate since ; he owns now 378 acres in different parts of the township ; at one 
time his four brothers belonged to the 46th I. V. I., Co. A. — John, Benjamin, Charles 
and James ; while Michael looked after the estate at home, the others were serving their 
country. 

WILLIAM J. MUSSER, farmer, Sec. 19; P. O. Orangeville; born in 
Centre Co., Penn, Oct. 27, 1852, and in 1876, came to Stephenson Co.; located on 
Sec. 19, buying the farm of 120 acres of John Confer. In 1877, he married Miss Jennie 
Wolf, of Pennsylvania, and they have a little girl name! Elsie. Politics, Republican. 

REV. B. F. PUGrH, Pastor, Lutheran; Orangeville; born in Somerset 
Co., Penn., Aug. 4, 1847 ; in 1864, he enlisted in the 5th Penn. V. I., Co. K; mustered 
out June 30, 1865, at Vienna, Va.; returned, and after working on the farm, entered 
the school-room ; in this vocation he taught in the States of Pennsylvania, Maryland 
and Virginia, and at other times was employed as clerk at different stores till 1870 ; 
in the fall he started for Ceylon's Grove; here he attended the Missionary Institute, in 
1871, taking a classical and theological course; graduating on May 29, 1877; was 
ordained by the Susquehanna Synod, at Bloomsburg, June 27 ; commenced preaching in 
Orangeville July 29, 1877. On Sept. 10, 1878, he was married to Miss A. F. Cadwell, in 
Elmira, N.Y.; they have one child — Claude Stanley, born Nov. 4, 1879. Republican in 
politics. 

WILLIAM M. RAYMOND, stock and grain farmer, Sec. 20 ; P. O. 
Oneco; born in Canada May 10, 1834 ; came into Stephenson Co. in 1843, and worked 
farm work for David L. Humphrey for ten years, and after Mr. Humphrey's death he 
purchased the farm in the year 1867 ; owns 154 acres ; is now building a fine residence 
where he helped to build Mr. H's house in 1843. On July 4, 1861, he married Miss 
Hannah Jane Van Matre, of Illinois, and has a family of four children — Olive, now 
Mrs. Fenner, Farmer B., Emma, and Willie V., born June 28, 1873. Mr. Raymond 
has held township and school offices. Politics, Democrat; religion, Christian. He is 
one of the three farmers — T. J. and W. J. Van Matre and William M. Raymond, 
stock farmers, having the finest Norman imported horses in Stephenson Co. 

JACOB L. BAYHOM, farmer, Sec. 32; P. O. McConnell's Grove i 
born in Stephenson Co., 111., Sept. 3, 1849 ; his parents having come West in that year, 
and settled in Rock Grove, and after farming at Hickory Grove and down on Cedar 
Creek, they moved to their present home on Sec. 32 in 1863 ; Jacob now farms all the 
estate, his father having retired from active labor. In the spring of 1877, he married 
Miss Agnes Garret ; their child is named Clinton Lumas. Mr. Rayhorn is now a Trus- 
tee of the U. B. Church, and School Director. 



ONECO TOWNSHIP. 717 

O. F. RIEM, retired farmer, Orangeville ; came West with his father in 1845 ; 
located on Sec. 36, Stephenson Co., Oneco Township, where he now lives on his farm of 
119 acres. The old family consists of Martin (deceased) ; Eliza, now Mrs. Potts ; Sarah, 
now Mrs. Trotter; James (deceased) ; George Franklin at home; mother died in 1879. 
G. F. Riein was born in Union Co., Penn., Feb. 26, 1843: has been farming with his 
father since. On Dec. 21, 1870, he married Miss Clara E. Cross, of Illinois; they 
have three children — Mary, Esther, George D. and Emma Jane. Mr. Riem has held 
office of Township Clerk for eight years, and is a Democrat. The Orangeville school 
buildings are on part of his farm, and he sold one acre for $400. 

THOMAS H. ROTE, blacksmith, Orangeville ; born in Aaronsburg, 
Center Co., Penn., July 3, 1861 ; attended commercial school at Iron City College; in 
1873, he came West and established himself in Orangeville in 1876 ; he has held public 
offices, and is now Clerk of the village. In 1876, he married Miss Laura Emily Cad- 
well, of Illinois. His father's family were Simon Rote and Susan; parent's children — 
Archibald, Daniel, John C, Sarah E., now Mrs. Fisher; Mary (deceased), Joanna 
(deceased), Thomas H. G., Alice P. (deceased). Mr. Rote's parents visited Orange- 
ville in 1877. On his wife's side, the Cadwell family came here to Stephenson Co. in 
1839 ; father, George S. Cadwell, and mother, Caroline (formerly Gillett), settled here 
in 1841. The family were Mary E., now Mrs. Bradshaw, Forest, Charles A., F. Addie, 
now Mrs. Pugh., L. Emma, now Mrs. Rote, G. Isaac, Helen. 

W. F. SAWDERS, farmer, Sec. 19 ; P. 0. Orangeville; born Union Co., 
Penn., Dec. 19, 1836; came West to Green Co., Wis., in 1850, after stopping in 
Lafayette Co. ; came to his present location in 1865 ; the farm of 109 acres he bought 
of Mr. Worick. His father died in 1874 and mother in 1879. In 1863, he married 
Miss Margaret Jane Worick, who was born in Centre Co., Penn., in 1846 ; they now 
have three children — John W. E., Spurgeon B. and Clayton F. Mr. Sanders has held 
school and township offices, and belongs to the Evangelical Church. Enlisted in the 
15th I. V. I., Co. E ; was wounded at the battle of Shiloh in the hip, and now gets a 
pension. 

WILLIAM SANDOE, harness maker and Postmaster, Orangeville ; born 
in Dauphin Co., Penn., Jan. 9, 1844 ; came to Stephenson Co. in April, 1847, with his 
father and family ; mother died one year afterward, in 1848, and his father, Daniel 
Sandoe, married again, and, in 1876, died in the village of Orangeville ; of the old 
family, there are two brothers in Iowa, two sisters in Kansas, and two sisters here. 
William went to Monroe, Wis., in 1860, learned the harness-trade, and when the war 
broke out, enlisted in the 93d I. V. I., Co. G; returned to Monroe in 1865, and worked 
for D. F. Corson & Son. In fall of 1867, opened a harness-shop in OraDgeville, and 
married Miss O. V. Knepper, of Maryland, in 1868; they have had three children — 
Claia D., deceased ; Leonora, now 8 years of age ; Stella, 5. Mr. Sandoe was appointed 
Postmaster of Orangeville ; is now Police Magistrate ; has been Township Clerk, and 
belongs to the Reformed Church ; Republican in politics. 

DAVID A. SCHOCH, of the firm of Schoch & Bolender, proprietors of 
Orangeville Creamery ; born in Snyder Co., Penn., Feb. 18, 1834 ; attended school till 
1848, then clerked in Freeburg, Penn. ; came to Orangeville in 1855, went to work fur 
C. M. Sheffer & Co., where he worked till 1857 ; he then went on to the farm, Sees. 
32 and 33, Range 8 east, where he owns 260 acres ; and in September, 1878, estab- 
lished the Orangeville Creamery, owned by Schoch & Bolender. In 1857, he married 
Miss Harriet Wagoner, of Pennsylvania ; the children are John, dead ; Luella, deceased, 
and Maude ; also an infant dead. Mr. Schoch has held township offices, Treasurer, etc. 
Attends M. E. Church. 

HIRAM SHONS, County Surveyor and farmer, Sec. 28 ; P. O. Orange- 
ville ; born in Orange Co., N. Y., Jan. 12, 1816 ; was engaged in teaching and survey- 
ing until the war ; and, having moved to Kentucky, raised Co. H of the 2d Battalion 
of Cavalry in Estill Co., of which he was elected Captain, and when he was mustered 
out, in 1864. was appointed Government Agent; served till 1865 ; in 1868, moved on 
his farm in Stephenson Co., which he owned since 1853 ; it contains 80 acres, also owns 



718 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

40 acres in Wisconsin. Tn 1845, was married to Miss Roxana Cadwell, and they have 
six children — Alice, Alfred C, Hiram, Jr., William H. S., Carrie and Omar. In poli- 
tics, Republican. 

REV. F. W. STUMP, Pastor of Reform Church, Orangeville; born in 
Stark Co., Ohio, Dec. 11, 1851; usual boyhood's experience until November, 1870; 
attended college at Heidelburg, Tiffin, Seneca Co., Ohio, in 1876; graduated in the 
classical course, also in the Theological Seminary of that place; he was licensed to preach 
by the Ohio Synod of the Reform Church of Orville ; came to Orangeville, June 24, 
1877 ; was ordained and installed by the Northern Illinois Classics, in 1877, July 8, in 
the Orangeville Circuit, embracing the Orangeville, Cedarville, Bellevue and Shueyville 
charges. Mr. Stump is Dept. (jr. W. C. T. of the Good Templar Lodge of Orangeville. 

A. A. SWARTZ, farmer, Sec. 30 ; P. O. Orangeville ; born in Stephenson 
Co., 111., March 23, 1852 ; has worked at the mason trade; taught school and now farms 
the old estate; his father came to the county, in 1844, bringing his wife Sarah and a 
family of five children — Samuel, Jacob, deceased ; Anna, deceased ; Henry and Andrew, 
the subject of this sketch ; they purchased this farm of Mr. Lomas, consisting of 120 
acres farm-land and 80 acres timber. Andrew is not married ; his father is a member 
of the Lutheran Church ; his brother Jacob died in 1874, of consumption contracted in 
the army. 

PHILIP SWARTZ, merchant, Orangeville; born in Union Co., Penn., 
Aug. 13, 1845 ; in 1866, went to Freeport and entered D. S. Bucher's store as clerk, 
where he remained six years ; then went to Dakota Territory on land tour, where he 
purchased 160 acres ; returned to Freeport and worked with Mr. Walton at Pecatonica ; 
afterward for Albert Plato; in 1879, came to Orangeville and bought one-half interest 
in S. E. Deal's store ; the firm name is now Deal and Swartz. In 1875, he married 
Miss P. J. Searles, of Ohio. Democrat in politics. 

ELIZABETH VAN MATRE, widow, Sec. 28 ; P. O. ( >rangeville ; born 
in Sangamon Co., 111., Nov. 7, 1835, and married to Joseph Nogle Van Matre, at 
Shueyville, Wis., in 1858, July 4, her maiden name being Elizabeth Trotter. He was 
born in Clinton Co., Penn., April 13, 1837, and came to Stephenson Co. in 1840, and 
finally settled on the estate which his widow now holds and farms ; he died, in 1878, July 
28, leaving her the farm on Sec. 28, and a family of two boys — George N., born June, 
1862, and Henry C, born Nov. 25, 1863 ; there is a daughter, Sarah C. and an infant 
sou deceased. Mr. J. N. Vau Matre has held school offices; belonged to the I. O. O. F. 
Lodge ; she owns 42 acres, well improved ; belongs to the Christian Church. 

J. W. VAX MATRE, stock and grain farmer, Sec. 21 ; P. O. Oneco ; born 
in Stephenson Co., on the homestead, Oct. 28, 1838, and was a member of L. D. Van 
Matre's family, consisting of Joseph W., Thomas J., Willard N., Mary E., now Mrs. 
Sa^ofer ; Melissa, now Mrs. Arledge ; Caroline, now Mrs. Rote, and Lucy P., now Mrs. 
Batten. Mr. J. W. Van Matre owns 202 acres of the estate, and is engaged in raising 
Norman horses, and with his brother and William Raymond interested in short-horns, 
with which they are very successful ; he has now the finest Norman mares in Stephen- 
son Co. On Oct. 28, 1858, he married Miss Sarah E. Williams, of New York, who 
died 1859 ; he was married again in I860, to Miss Samantha Arledge; they have five 
children — Dora B., L. D., T. J., Emma and Freddie N. Politics, Democrat. 

T. J. VAN MATRE, stock and grain farmer, Sec. 2 J ; P. O. Oneco ; born 
at Scales Mound, Jo Daviess Co., 111., Feb. 16, 1834. His father, L. D. Van Matre, 
and his brother Thomas J., came to Stephenson Co. in 1836, and took up their claims, on 
which their sons now live. Of the old family, there are L. 1 ., John and Melissa now 
living; L. D. was born Sept. 20, 1807, and married in Jan. 13, 1831, to Miss Mary 
Alexander, who died Oct. 3, 1855 ; he married again, June 22, 1856. T. J., the sub- 
ject of this sketch, together with his brother W. J., owns about 324 acres, and, in part- 
nership with William Raymond, have imported, and are introducing, full-blood Norman 
horses, together with short-horn Durham cattle. In April 7, 1855, he married Miss 
Mary Ann French, of Ohio ; they have a son living. Charles W., and one daughter, 



ONECO TOWNSHIP. 719 

Nancy F. (deceased). His barn now standing is supposed to be the first built in this 
county. Politics, Democrat. 

REV. O. M. VAN SWE ARINGEtf, Pastor of (J. B. Church, Orange- 
ville; born in Fayette Co., Penn., Nov. 12, 1843; in early life lived on the farm with 
father ; the old family were Minerva. I Martin Buren, Barbara, now Mrs. Stanley, 
Thomas I., Otho Miner, Martha, now Mrs. Peugh ; his father and mother now live in 
Whiteside Co., 111. When 19 years of age, he moved to Ohio, and attended Berlin 
Normal Institute, and in 1862 taught a school ; came to Illinois in 1863, but returned 
to Ohio, where he taught for ten years ; entered the lecture field with bis brother, 
Thomas I., and traveled through Illinois, Indiana and Ohio. On Jan. 29, 1871, he 
married Miss Nattie Telford, of Chicago, 111. ; they have two children — Bertha L. and 
Elsie E. He worked at graining before studying for the ministry. On Jan. 1, 1874, 
was a convert to the U. B. Church ; April, 1874, he was licensed to preach ; joined the 
Bock Biver Conference at Polo, 111.; in 1875, held a charge in Lee Co. one year, and 
came to Orangeville Circuit in 1877 ; has six appointments, and preaches three times on 
one Sabbath Day ; has received 130 members into the U. B. Church since coming here. 

E. S. WAGNER, farmer, Sec. 29 ; P. 0. Orangeville; born in Northumber- 
land Co., Penn., Feb. 14, 1833; located on Sec. 33, Oneco, in 1846, and remained till 
1866, when he sold the farm to his father and bought this farm, on which he now 
resides, of William Hoffman ; it contains 80 acres ; he now owns 160 acres of farm land, 
and 14£ acres of timber land. April, 1858, was married to Miss Mary C. Hassinger, 
of Pennsylvania ; has a family of five children — Ada M., Willard A., George S., Samuel 
G. and Ira J. Mr. Wagner has held school offices. Lutheran in religion. 

WILLIAM WAGENHALS, retired farmer. Orangeville ; born in Wur- 
temberg, Germany, Aug. 21, 1822; emigrated to America in 1836; in Philadelphia, 
Penn., learned the baker's trade; he farmed in Lancaster and Union Cos., Penn.; 
came West and run the Orangeville Mills for John Bower, in 1847, 1848 and 1849 ; 
then kept a grocery and drug store ; sold out to Amos Benage in 1851 ; belonged to the 
firm of McEntee & Wagenhals' dry goods establishment ; in 1865, sold to Lodigan Erb 
and retired from active life ; now lives on his homestead ; also owns 110 acres on Sec. 
35. In 1848, he married Miss Susanna Sandoe, of Dauphin Co., Penn.; has no chil- 
dren; Mr. Wagenhals' was the first Postmaster, in 1853; has been Supervisor; is now 
President of the Buckeye Insurance Co.; he has two sisters — Louisa Hildinger, widow, 
and Christiana Mussacher, also widow. Is German Lutheran in religion ; Democrat in 
politics. 

THOMAS W. WERKHEISER, wagon-factory, Oraugeville; born 
in Northampton Co., Penn., July 3, 1849 ; came West with his father in 1856 ; also, 
two brothers — John H. and Nelson (deceased). In 1871, he married Miss Buth A. 
Wilson, of Illinois ; there are now Melvin L., Ivah and Stella, and one dead. His bro- 
ther enlisted in Co. G, 93d I. V. I., and served three years ; Thomas W. was in Delmar, 
Plymouth Co., Iowa, in 1873, running a wagon-shop there; sold out and carried his 
business to Seney, Iowa ; after two years there, returned to Stephenson Co.; in March, 
1877, commenced business; his buildings are, main, 20x30, with paint-shop above, and 
an L 16x20, for smithing ; his trade is increasing rapidly; the firm was formerly Werk- 
heiser & Scott, but now Mr. Werkheiser is sole proprietor. 

MRS. BETSY WINCHELL, widow, Sec. 32; P. O. Orangeville; was 
born in Erie Co., N. Y., Sept, 9, 1801 ; owns 240 acres of land, which her husband, Ira 
Winchell, claimed in 1840 ; they lived there since 1843 ; Mr. Winchell died May 19, 
1879, aged 84 years and 14 days ; was buried in Orangeville. He left a family of eight 
children — Susan (now Mrs. West), Clarissa (now Mrs. Hartley), Samuel fdied when 14 
months old), Amos (died at 2 years of age), Emma (now Mrs. Walkey), George (now 
farming the estate), Hiram and Angeline (deceased). Mrs. Winchell has belonged to 
church for forty-six years, and, together with her husband, has always been identified 
with the interests of Stephenson Co. 



720 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

€r. W. WIRT, druggist. Orangevilie ; born Sept. 8, 1830, in Lehigh Co., 
Perm.; family removed to Centre Co., where his father died in 1831, in month of Feb- 
ruary ; he worked on the farm ; then moved to Greene Co., Ind., and there went to shoe- 
making, opening a shop of his own ; and in the fall of 18G5 came to Orangevilie, and 
opened a shoe trade; but, his hedth failing, he tried farming; but came to the village 
and entered the drug business, May 1, 1876 ; is the proprietor of a business worth about 
$4,500 per annum. <m Nov. 7, 1853, he married Miss Elizabeth H. Stem, of Penn- 
sylvania; they have no children. Lutheran in religion. 

ISRAEL Gr. WISE, Principal of Orangevilie School; his father came to 
Stephensou Co. in 1844, and married Mrs. Fager (nee Chesta Grimo) in 1847, at 
Buckeye Center ; soon after moved to Shuey Mills, Green Co., Wis.; it was during his stay 
here that his son Israel G. was born ; on Jan. 19, 1849, the family returned to Buckeye 
Township, and here, in 1862-63-64, Israel G. learned wool-carding, but having prepared 
himself for the profession of a teacher, in 1873, went to teaching Orangevilie schools, 
at which he is now engaged; in 1877, he was Township Clerk ; in 1879, Assessor, and 
on Dec. 26, 1871, he married Miss Mary A. Gorr, of Pennsylvania ; they have two children 
— Carrie and John ; his father, after retiring to the old homestead on Sec. 7, Buckeye 
Township, died on Jan. 14, 1869; his mother remained until 1879, when she also 
passed to a better world, December 13. Mr. Wise belongs to the Evangelical Church. 

WILLIAM WOLF, farmer, Sec. 30 ; P. O. Orangevilie ; born in Centre 
Co., Penn., Dec. 20, 1832. May 12, 1853, was married to Miss Mary Russell, of 
Venango Co., Penn.; came West to Stephenson Co., III., in 1866, in company with James 
Leeman, driving a spiked team ; his wife and three daughters came in 1868; locat d 
on this farm March 28, 1868; the farm, which contains 160 acres, was bought from 
Wilson Russell ; he has held township offices. In religion, Lutheran ; the children are 
Rosette I., Harriet J. and Florence E. 

DANIEL WOODRIMGr, retired farmer, Orangevilie ; born in Northamp- 
ton Co., Penn., Nov. 1, 1810 ; at 16 years of age, he worked on the canal. In 1836, 
married Miss Catherine, of Pennsylvania, who died Sept. 28, 1856, on the farm to which 
he had moved on coming to Stephenson Co., in 1855, on Sec. 29, Range 8 east. In 
1860, he married Sophia Lurch, of Pennsylvania, and in 1872, sold the farm to Jacob 
L. Hess, and moved to Orangevilie. Mr. Woodring has held township offices ; was 
Comptroller of Highways in 1866, and is an Elder in the Reformed Church ; out of 
twelve children, there are eight alive — Catherine, Daniel, Violetta, John E., Peter 
D., Uriah, Anna C, Luciuda U., Mary D., Emma R,, Eleanor and Adda M.; John 
belonged to the 46th I. V. I., Co. A ; returned November, 1865. 



WEST POINT TOWNSHIP. 

JACOB ACKER, farmer; P. O. Lena; born Sept. 28, 1814, in Mifflin 
Co., Penn.; he learned the carpenter trade iu Union Co., Penn., following the busi- 
ness until 1 843, when he came to Stephenson Co. ; he has followed farming and the 
carpenter's trade since coming to this county ; he now owns 65 acres ; part of this land 
is inside the corporation, and he owns other town property ; he has been Justice of the 
Pe:ice and County Superintendent ; he was Postmaster in Lowell, Jefferson Township ; 
he also was School Treasurer and Director. Married Amelia Himes in 1839 ; she was 
born in Union Co., Penn., in 1818; they had nine children, six living — George H., 
Mary E., Kate, Margaret A., Jane and Viola F. ; George H. enlisted in 1861, in the 
92d 1. V. I.; served about one year, and was discharged on account of sickness. 

H. W. ALLEN, nursery and farmer, Sec. 32 ; P. O. Lena ; born Aug. 4, 
1842, in Galena, 111.; when about three years of age, he came with his parents to his 
present locality ; his father formerly owned about 400 acres of land ; part of 
this land is now occupied by the lumber yard, depot, etc.; they own now 80 acres, 



WEST POINT TOWNSHIP. 721 

and he is largely engaged in the nursery business, consisting of fruit and ornamental 
trees, it is equal to any nursery in the county. Married Miss Cordelia Aurand, iu 
1865 ; she was burn in Carlisle, Penn.; they have six children, three sons and three 
daughters. He enlisted in 1864, in Co. A, 142d I. V. I., as Sergeant, and served 
about six months. His father died in November, 1864, aged 50 years. 

LEWIS B. ANDREWS, farmer, Sec. 35; P. 0. Lena; born Oct. 9, 
1850, in West Point Township; his father settled on this farm in about 1839 ; is now 
a resident of Cleveland, Ohio ; this farm consists of 238 acres of land, well improved. 
He married Miss Lizzie Moffett, March 20, 1878 ; she was born in Jo Daviess Co., where 
her parents now reside. 

C. T. BARNES, farmer, Sec. 15 ; P. 0. Waddam's I'irove ; born July 3, 
1813, in Prussia; in 1836, he came to Baltimore, Md., having followed the seas as a 
sailor four years, and one year sailed out of Baltimore; in 1837 he commenced to learn 
the cabinet trade ; followed it until 1852, when he came to Stephenson Co., and has 
since been engaged in farming; he owns 171 acres of land ; he has been School Director 
for the past seventeen years. Married Minerva Gathir in 1840 ; she was born in North 
Carolina, in 1819, and died in 1857 ; they had four children, three sons and one 
daughter ; his second marriage was to Elizabeth Lutz, in 1860 ; she was born in Penn- 
sylvania ; they have three children, one son and two daughters. He is a Republican in 
politics. 

WILLIAM G. BARNES, farmer, Sec. 14 ; P. O. Waddam's Grove; born 
Oct. 14, 1841, in Scott Co., 111. ; when a child his parents removed to Galena, 111. ; in 
1852 they came to Stephenson Co. ; he owns 164 acres of land ; he enlisted in 1861 in 
Co. G, 15th 111. V. I. ; served to the end of the war ; was at the battle of Shiloh, siege of 
Corinth and others ; in 1868 he came to his present farm. Married Minerva A. 
Ferguson, in 1866 ; she was born in Rochester, N. Y. ; they have three children — 
Charles M., Ida Mabel and Fred. Mr. Barnes is a member of the M. E. Church; 
he is a Republican. 

R. BAYSINGER, farmer, Sec. 5; P. 0. Lena; born Aug. 23, 1827, in 
Breckenridge Co., Ky. ; in 1833 he came to Edgar Co., 111.; in 1846 he came to 
Stephenson Co.; he owns 107 h acres of land; is School Treasurer; has been Com- 
missioner of Highways. Married Rachel Montague, Dec. 1,1850; she was born in 
Edgar Co., 111. ; they have three children — Charles M., Newell H., and Mary E. 
Mr. Baysinger is a member of the M. E. Church ; he is a Republican. 

DR. G. A. BOWES, physician and surgeon, Lena ; born Aug. 15, 1830, in 
Dauphin Co., Penn. ; at about the age of 21 years he commenced the study of medicine 
with Dr. G. 0. Witman, and graduated in 1854, from the Jefferson Medical College, at 
Philadelphia ; he entered the U. S. service in 1862, as Surgeon in the 36th Penn. V. L, 
with the rank of Major ; he was located at Harrisburg, Penn., as examiuing surgeon ; 
he served to the end of the war ; in 1869 he came to Lena; he owns the three-story 
brick block, corner North R. R. and Schuyler streets, and other property in town. 
Married Miss Amelia C. Smith, in 1854; she was born in Union Co., Penn. 

REV. F. BOWER, Sec. 10 ; P. 0. Waddam's Grove; born April 19, 1819, 
in Snyder Co., Penn. ; in 1852 he commenced studying for the ministry ; in 1856, he 
was ordained to preach the gospel, and was installed in the Augusta Baptist Church, 
Northumberland Co.; in 1857, he came to Center Co., Penn.; preached there 
seven years; in 1864, he returned to Selin's Grove, Penn. ; preached there two years ; in 
1866, he came to Missouri and engaged in the mission work two years ; in 1868, he 
came to Lena and preached there seven years ; in 1869 he was engaged in the mission 
work in Dakota Territory ; in 1876, he came to his present locality ; he owns 70 acres 
of land. Married Miss M. J. Smith, Sept. 12, 1843 ; she was born in Snyder Co., Penn. 

ALLEN BOYER, farmer, Sec. 25 ; P. 0. Lena; born March 29, 1819, in 
Union Co., Penn. ; in 1846, he came to Stephenson Co. ; he owns 246 acres of land, 
part entered and improved with substantial buildings; he has been School Director and 
Treasurer. Married Leah Jordan in 1840 ; she was born in Lancaster Co., Penn. ; 



722 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

had eleven children ; nine are living — Ezra, Isaac, John, Levi, Simon, Enoch, Anna, 
Sarah and Hannah. Dunkard in religion. 

JACOB BITRBRIDGE, farmer, Sec. 7; P. 0. Lena; born Jan. 18, 
1806, in Butler Co., Penn. ; when a child he came with his parents to Kentucky, in 
1827 ; they came to Springfield, 111., in 1829 ; he came to Jo Daviess Co. ; here he was 
elected Constable, and also served as Deputy Sheriff; he sowed the first fall wheat in 
Jo Daviess County ; this wheat he brought from Springfield, 111., in the fall of 1830 ; 
in 1837, he removed to Stephenson County, where he has since lived; he owns 150 
acres of land. Married Martha A. Waddams in 1832 ; she was born in Ohio in 1816 ; 
had eleven children ; seven are living — Elizabeth, Louisa, Lucy, Melissa, Julietta, Jacob 
and Wilson. Mr. B. served six months in the Black Hawk War ; he is the only one now 
in Stephenson Co. who served in this war. Methodist in religion ; Republican in politics. 

WILLIAM CORNING, capitalist; Lena; born Jan. 25, 1818, in Rock- 
ingham Co., N. H. ; when about the age of 18 he came to Lowell, Mass. ; in 1842, he 
came to Jo Davies County; followed teaming, etc., till 1848, when he came to Stephen- 
son County and engaged in farming; he owns 215 acres of land, improved, also a prop- 
erty in Lena; in 1870, he commenced the banking business; firm of Toll, Corning & 
Co. ; they continued this about eight years ; he is a member of the Town Board, etc. 
Married Mary B. Green in 1842 ; she was born in Newburyport, Mass. ; they lad five 
children ; two are living — Elizaette and Adriann. Presbyterian in religion ; Republi- 
can in politics. 

A. S. CROTZER, firm of Crotzer Bros., lumber and hardware, Lena ; born 
Feb. 27, 1846, in Clayton Co., Penn.; in 1857, he came with his parents to Lena; 
engaged in farming till 1864, when he enlisted in Company E, 92d I. V. I., mounted ; 
served as cavalry; continued till the close of the war; they were under Gen. Kil- 
patrick's command ; they participated in the battle of Atlanta, Shermau's march to the 
sea, Aiken, S. C, Wainsborough, Raleigh, N. C, Macon, Ga., and others ; he then 
returned and continued farming and stock raising till 1873, when he commenced hia 
present business ; he is President of the Town Board of Treasurers. Married Miss 
Maggie Sechler, Nov. 15, 1877 ; she was born in Pennsylvania ; they have one child, 
Mary. Lutheran in religion ; Republican in politics. 

FREDERICK DAMERT, firm of Damert & Walz, hardware, Lena ; 
born April 28, 1842, in Prussia; in 1867, he came to Lena and started a tin shop; he 
has worked at this trade about twenty-four years ; in 1874, he commenced the hard- 
ware business. Married Miss Elizabeth Sherman April 4, 1870; she was born in 
Stephenson Co. ; havefhad four children — Emma, William F., Hattie C and Minnie D. 
Lutheran in religion ; Republican in politics. 

DANIEL DAWS, farmer, Sec. 31; P. O. Lena; born June 20, 1824, in 
Sussex Co., England; in 1841, he came to Jefferson Co., N. Y. ; in 1860, he came to 
Stephenson Co. ; he owns 138 acres of land. Married Miss A. Smith in 1847 ; 
she was born in 1826, in New York ; died February, 1868 ; have three sons and four 
daughters ; second marriage to Lizzie Lanterman, in 1870 ; she was born in Warren 
Co., N. Y. Attend M. E. Church. 

THOMAS DAWS, farmer, Sec. 36 ; P. O. Lena; born July 14, 1815, in 
Sussex, England ; in 1844, he came to Stephenson County; he owns 200 acres of land ; 
has been School Director and Road Commissioner the past nine years. Married Char- 
lotte Nevis in 1835; she was born in England; had thirteen children, ten living — 
Thomas, Mary Ann, Henry, Alfred, Sarah, Margaret, Caroline, Elias, Charlie and 
Adie. He is a Baptist. 

GEORGE W. DELATE, deceased ; late husband of Lucy A. Delate, 
Sec. 3; P. O. Nora ; he was born in 1822, in Maine ; died August, 1867; he came to 
Stephenson County in or about 1860. He married Mrs. Lucy A. Wilbur, in 1865 ; 
she was born in Schenectady, N. Y. ; have one son, George G. ; she has also one son 
by a former marriage, William E. Wilbur ; he had three children by a former mar- 
riage, one son and two daughters ; she owns 160 acres of land. 



WEST POINT TOWNSHIP. 723 

SAMUEL J. DODDS, attorney-at-law and notary, Lena; born Oct. 1, 
1835, in Logansport, Ind. ; in 1838, he came with his parents to Lena; he has been 
engaged several years in merchandising ; has been Assistant Postmaster ten years ; he com- 
menced reading law in 1869 ; was admitted to the bar in 1871 ; he was elected County 
Surveyor in 1872 ; held this office till 1876 ; has been Township Clerk. Married Miss 
E. V. Rounds, September, 1858 ; she was born in Broome Co., N. Y. ; they have five 
children — Homer M., Milton T., Delia M., Mary A. and Katie D. Presbyterian in 
religion. 

J. T. H. DOBBLER, farmer, Sec. 3 ; P. 0. Nora ; "orn March 27, 1829, 
in Lycoming Co., Penn. ; in 1853, he came to Stephenson Co. ; he owns 200 acres 
of land, also a storehouse in Nora. Married Maria Hartzell, in 1849 ; she was born in 
Lehigh Co., Penn.; had eight children, seven living — Mary E., Sarah B., Clara A., 
John E., Eliza M., Cora E. and George F. Attend the M. E. Church ; Republican in 
politics. 

ANTHONY DOLL, farmer, Sec. 30 ; P. 0. Lena; born June 17, 1840, in 
Canada ; when a child, he came with his parents to Stephenson County ; he owns 310 
acres of land, also land in Iowa. He married Margaret Wendling, in 1867 ; she was 
born in Canada ; they have six children — William M., John E., Rosetta, Olive M., 
Albert and Emma Mary. His father was born in Germany in 1799 ; came to Canada 
in 1834 ; he has lived on this farm since coming to the county. 

B. DOLL, livery, Lena ; born in 1836 in Baden ; in 1851, he came to Stephen- 
son County ; he owns 200 acres of land, his stables and other property in town. Mar- 
ried Catharine Hater in 1862; she was born in Pennsylvania ; they have three children, 
one son and two daughters. 

A. M. DURKEE, farmer, Sec. 34 ; P. O. Howardsville ; born June 3, 1811. 
in Cayuga Co, N. Y. ; in 1842, he came to Jefferson Co. ; there engaged in farm- 
ing and merchandising till 1854, when he came to Stephenson Co. ; he owns about 
900 acres of land — 250 acres of this land in Stephenson Co. — valued at $40 per 
acre ; he was appointed Postmaster in 1857 ; he has been Township Trustee and School 
Director. Married Miss Esther C. Stevens, September, 1843; she was born in Jeffer- 
son Co., N. Y. ; they have five children — Augusta J., now Mrs. Durkee ; Delaney M., 
Milton E. and Agnes E. and Willie R., twins; their son, Delaney M., enlisted in July, 
1862, in Co. B, 71st I. V. I. ; served four months ; he attended the Eastman Commer- 
cial College, Chicago, and graduated from this institution ; he is now studying medicine. 
The family are Baptists. 

J. P. FAIR, farmer, Sec. 7 ; P. O. Lena; born June 15,1843, in Indiana Co., 
Penn.; in 1857, he came to Stephenson Co.; he owns 288 acres of land; he 
enlisted in 1862 in Co. H, 67th I. V. I.; served four months; has been School 
Director the past four years. Married Martha A. Montague in 1870 ; shewas born in 
West Point Township ; they have one child — Newel M. Republican in politics. 

FRANK D. FITTS, farmer, Sec. 33; P. O. Lena; born March 14, 1854, 
in Cooper, Mich. ; when a child he came with his parents to Chicago ; at the age of 1 6 
he graduated from the Chicago High School ; he then secured employment in the 
Franklin Bank ; he was afterward promoted teller, with full charge of the Savings 
Department ; held this position about three years ; he was then employed by the M. C. 
R. R. about eighteen months; afterward book-keeper for G. B. Swift & Co., and also 
had charge of the Hartford Life and Annuity Insurance Company ; held this position 
till 1878, when he came to his present farm, consisting of 352 acres of land. 

A. F. FOLL, capitalist; Lena; he was born March 25, 1835, in Bedfordshire, 
England ; in 1858, he came to Lena ; he first worked on a farm at $12 per month ; he 
continued farming until 1860, when he removed to Lena; he then secured employ- 
ment with Mr. Perrin, working in his warehouse; in 1862, he engaged in the grain 
trade; carried on this business till 1864; he then sold out and commenced the lumber 
trade in 1865 ; he again returned to the grain trade, and followed till 1870, when he 
started in the banking business ; firm of Foil, Corning & Co. ; they continued tili 



724 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

1877 ; be owns a farm of 120 acres ; also a large amount of property in town, and has 
always been very successful in all his business enterprises. He married Miss Jennie 
Parris in 1863; she was born in Pennsylvania; they have four children — Adic, Wil- 
liam, John and Frederick. Presbyterians in religion ; Republican in politics. 

J. I>. FOWLER, fanner. Sec. 29; P. 0. Lena; born June 19, 1814, in 
Springfield, Rutland Co., Vt.; May 21, 1838, he came to his present farm ; he owns 
over 500 acres of land, part of which he entered ; he has been Justice of the Peace, 
School Director, etc ; in coming West they came by canal and lake, and occupied 
twenty-one days in the journey. He married Rachel Montague in April, 1838; she 
was born in Massachusetts, April 12, 1813; in about 1828, she came to Edgar Co., 
111., with her father and two brothers, remaining there several years ; she then returned 
to Bennington Co., Vt., and then was married as above stated; she died Nov. 28, 1855. 
They had eight children, five living — Mary A., Horace W., Jelina, Eunice, Charles 
N.; Merritt died in infancy; James D. died Oct. 6, 1875, aged 25 years; .Julia died 
Jan. 22, 1878, aged 38 years. Mr. Fowler is a Free Methodist in religion. 

THOMAS S. FRENCH, farmer, Sec. 19; P. 0. Lena; born July 10, 
1814, in Sullivan Co., Ind. ; in 1813, he came to Wisconsin and engaged in mining; 
in 1834, he came to Stephenson Co. and entered 320 acres of land ; he then returned 
to Wisconsin, and followed mining there and in Jo Daviess Co. until 1837, when he 
returned to his present locality; he owns 400 acres here, also 160 acres in Wisconsin. 
Married Miss Mary Kirkpatrick, April 16, 1840 ; she was born in Sangamon Co., 111., 
May 20, 1820; they have eight children — George W., William K., Sterman, Joseph 
B., Eliza J., Mary, John H. and Perry; George W. and William K. served in the late 
war. Presbyterian in religion ; Republican in politics. 

H. W. FRISBY, farmer and fine stock -raiser ; P. O. Lena ; born Sept. 15, 
1832, in New York City; at about the age of 19 he went to California and followed 
mining until 1856, when he returned to New York and followed merchandising about 
two years ; he then went to Texas in 1860 ; he returned to New York in 1862. He 
enlisted in the 133d N. Y. V. I. and served to the end of the war ; soon after entering the 
service he was promoted to Second Lieutenant, then Adjutant, which position he held 
to the end of the war ; he then returned to Brooklyn, and soon after was appointed 
clerk in the Quartermaster's department, under Maj. Henry Inman, Chief Q. M. at Ft. 
Harker and Ft. Dodge, under command of Gen. Sheridan, during the Indian war in 
1868. Mr. F. is well qualified to hold the positions which have been intrusted to him, 
he being well informed and an excellent penman ; he has a large and well-selected 
library, and also a valuable collection of curiosities ; he came to Lena in 1869 ; he 
owns 60 acres inside the corporation. Married Miss Elizabeth Dodds, in December 
1869 ; she was born in Indiana in 1S32 ; they have one child — Otis Inman. aged 8 years. 
Presbyterian in religion ; Republican in politics. 

REV. A. S. GARDINER, pastor of the Presbyterian Church, Lena; 
born July 19, 1824, in Sag Harbor, Suffolk Co., N. Y. ; in 1842, he attended the 
Clinton Academy at East Hampton, N. Y., under the instructions of Howland Davis; 
in September, 1843, he went to the University of the city of New York, concluding 
his studie* at this institution in 1847; he then went to the law office of George Wood, 
Esq., of New York, and was admitted to the Supreme Court of New York in 1848 ; 
he then practiced law in New York City, Long Island and Fond du Lac, Wis.; during 
the winter of 1850-51, he was licensed and ordained by the Presbytery of Milwau- 
kee to preach the Gospel ; he then returned East in 1 852 ; he accepted a call to the 
Presbyterian Church at Cold Spring, on the Hudson, where he continued a period of 
twelve years ; he then came to Rockford ; in 1878, he came to Lena, and became Pastor 
of the Presbyterian Church; he also has charge of the church at Winslow ; he has been 
continuously engaged in the work since 1851. He married Miss Caroline F. Williams, 
December, 1852 ; she was born in New JYork City, Dec. 18, 1827 ; they have three 
children — Mrs. Charles H. Goffin, of Upper Mont Clair, N. J., a graduate of Rockford 
Seminary ; Miss Julia Evangeline, now attending the same institution, and Irving L. 
Hommedieu. 



WEST POINT TOWNSHIP. 725 

SAMUEL GUNSAUL, proprietor Lena Hotel, Lena ; born Feb. 2, 1812, 
in Montgomery Co., N. Y.; he was engaged there in merchandising ; in 1842, he came 
to Stephenson Co., where he has since lived ; he owns a farm of 160 acres in Winslow 
Township, also the Lena Hotel; he has kept hotel the past twenty-nine years ; in 1876 
he removed to Lena and took charge of this hotel. 

W. W. HALL, retired, Lena; born Nov. 8, 1822, in Genesee Co., N. Y.; 
in May 1847, he came to Stephenson Co., where he has since resided; he has owned 
about four hundred acres of land, which he has improved and since sold ; he now owns 
80 acres, and property in Lena, and other lands ; he has been President of the Town 
Board, Assessor, etc; is a deacon of the Baptist Church, and has been an active member 
of this denomination since he was 18 years old. He married Sarah A. Goddard, in 
Stepheuson Co.; she was born in Vermont; they have five children — Anna E., Albert 
W., Carrie E., Nellie and Mary L. Republican in politics. 

JOHN HARRINGTON, farmer. Sec. 29; P. 0. Waddams Grove; born 
in June, 1816, in Ireland ; in 1836, he came to Quebec, thence to New York; in 1838 
he came to Chicago ; in 1842, to Carroll Co ; in 1846, he removed to Stephenson 
Co.; he owns 140 acres of land. He married Julia McNamara in 1850; she was 
born in Canada, and came with her parents, when a child, to Illinois. They have 
eleven children — Francis, John (who has prepared himself as a teacher, and has been 
teaching school for the past five years; he is now teaching in Durand), Mary (also a 
teacher), Daniel, Julia, Edward, James, Eliza, Kate, Honora and William. Catholics. 

JOSEPH HICKS, farmer, Sec. 8; P. O. Lena; born Aug. 24, 1820, in 
Ashtabula Co., Ohio; in October, 1840, he came to Stephenson Co., where he has 
since lived ; he first, entered 160 acres of land and improved it, then sold this farm ; he 
now owns 110 acres; he has been School Director, etc. Married Lora E. Bailey in 

1849; she was born in Cortland, Co., N. Y. ; they had four children, two living 

Edward L. and Frank C. ; lost two children in infancy. Lutheran in religion ; Repub- 
lican in politics. 

HON. ANDREW HINDS, Lena; born July 25, 1822, in Lamoille Co., 
Vt. ; in 1847, he came to Iowa Co., Wis. ; in January, 1848, he removed to Stephen- 
son Co. ; he commenced reading law in 1844, with Solomon Wires, in Johnson, 
Vt. ; was admitted to practice in 1847; he then completed his studies with Jerome 
Beardsley. and, in the following June term, was admitted as a partner; in 1848, he 
taught school in Oneco Township; in 1855, he was elected County Treasurer, and has 
held the office of County Superintendent about twenty years ; he was elected County 
Judge in 1869, one term; in 1878, he was elected a member of the Legislature; he 
has held some other minor offices ; he owns about 500 acres of land, and also property 
in Lena. He married Sarah Gibler in 1849; she was born in Highland Co., Ohio; 
they have eleven children — William, Ella, Laura, Louis, Frank, Jennie, James, Mary, 
Idella, Thomas and Joseph B. Christian religion ; Democratic in politics. 

B. J. HOLLEY% farmer, Sec. 36; P. O. Lena; born Sept. 1, 1820, in 
Washington Co., Penn.; in 1844, he came to Cook Co., 111.; in 1846, to Lake Co.; 
in 1853. he came to his present farm ; he owns 220 acres of land, and also one-half 
interest in 100 acres, occupied by his son ; has been Commissioner of Highways; is 
Township Trustee. He married Mary Holbrook in 1843 ; she was born in Washington 
Co., Penn., in 1818; they have two children — George M. and Alice E. ; he has been 
a member of the Baptist Church for the past forty years. 

F. HOUSER, dealer in produce, Lena; born Sept. 11, 1842, in Mifflin Co., 
Penn. ; when about 8 years old, he came with his parents to Stephenson Co. ; he 
engaged in farming till 1872, when he commenced his present business. He married 
Miss M. E. Dobbler in 1863; she was born in Pennsylvania; they had three children, 
one living — Henry C. Lutheran religion ; Republican in politics. 

G. L. HOWARD, farmer, Sec. 31 ; P. O. Lena; born Oct, 11, 1822, in 
Jefferson Co., N. Y. ; in 1839 he came with his parents to Stephenson Co.; his father 
lives on the farm he entered, and built the first house on this prairie, this house he still 



726 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

occupies, it was built in about 1841 ; he owns 55 acres of land improved, having built 
a stone house and other improvements ; he has been Justice of the Peace, Commissioner 
of Highways, Assessor ; has been Township Treasurer about 15 years. Married Harriet 
E. Bedford, in 1848, she was born in Jefferson Co., N. Y.; they had six children, two 
living— Christie Ann and Parker L. Mr. Howard is a member of the M. E. Chvirch ; 
he is a Republican. 

MARTIN HOWARD, farmer, Sec. 34 ; P. 0. Howardsville ; born Aug. 
10, 1820, in Jefferson Co., N. Y., in 1837 ; he came with his parents to Stephenson Co^; 
he owns 143 acres of land, which he entered ; he was the first Road Commissioner in 
this township ; his father named this Post Office Howardsville, and was the first Post- 
master here. Married Elizabeth A. Stevens, in 1848 ; she was born in Jefferson Co., 
N. Y., they have five children— Nettie, Walter A., Helen, Charles F. and Edith. Mr. 
Howard is a member of the Baptist Church. 

WARD B. HOWARD, farmer, Sec. 34 ; P. 0. Howardsville; born June 
27, 1822, in Jefferson Co., N. V.; in 1835 he came to Rockport, Ohio ; in 1837 he 
came to Stephenson Co., 111. ; he owns 184 acres of land, which he entered. Married 
Malinda Kelly, in 1849, she was born in New York ; they have two children — Fayette 
A. and Ruth. 

CwEORCjtE W.HOYMAN, agricultural implements, wind-mills, pumps, etc., 
Lena ; born Oct. 2, 1838, in Somerset Co., Penn.; in 1855, he came to Stephenson Co.; he 
carried on the butchering business and farming till 1872, when he commenced his 
present business. Married Miss Catharine Bowers in 1858 ; she came with her parents 
to Stephenson Co. when a child ; they have six children — Arthur, Lucy, Vinnie, 
William, Charles and Susan. Republican ; Lutheran. 

P. H. KAUFMAN, grain dealer, Lena; born June 5, 1827, in Shenandoah 
Co., Va.; when a boy he came with his parents to Missouri ; in 1834 they removed to 
Stephenson Co., where he has since lived ; there were but three white families in the 
county when they came here; he has always been engaged in farming till about 1870, 
when he commenced the grain business; he owns 230acres of land and property in 
Lena; his father died in 1850, aged 53 years. Married Phebe Clark, July 10, 1854; 
she was born in Canada ; they have three children — William H., Elsie and Bertie S. 
Mr. Kaufman is a Lutheran in religion. 

P. S. KERLIN, agent Illinois Central Railroad and American Express 
Company, Lena ; born Aug. 27, 1837, in Center Co., Penn.; in 1851, he commenced 
a general merchandise business in Fillmore, Penn. ; he continued this business about 
fifteen years ; March, 1868, he was appointed to his present position. Married Susan 
D. Bike in 1860 ; she was born in Center Co., Penn. ; have four children— Willliam, 
Henry, Fannie and Charles. 

Dr. W. W. KERLIN, physician and surgeon ; P. 0. Waddams Grove ; 
born April 9, 1839, in Northumberland Co., Penn. ; at about the age of 19 years he 
commenced studying medicine with Dr. P. R. Weggenseller ; he graduated in Phila- 
delphia in 1855, from the Pennsylvania Medical College; since then he has been in 
constant practice; in 1867, he came to his present locality; he owns a farm of 160 
acres. Married Miss A. E. Smith, in 1856 ; she was born in Snyder Co., Penn. ; 
they have two children — George B. and Anna. He enlisted in the 61st Penn. V. I. ; had 
charge of a battalion ; afterward appointed Assistant Surgeon ; was at the battle of 
Richmond and others. 

ADAM A. KRAPE, Superintendent of Schools of Stephenson Co., Lena; 
is a native of Center Co., Ponn., and was born Jan. 10, 1843; his parents came to 
Illinois and located in Stephenson Co. in the spring of 1846 ; he grew up and 
attended school, and completed his education at the Wisconsin State University at 
Madison in 1862 ; since then has been mostly engaged in teaching ; in 1877, he was 
elected Superintendent of Schools, and since then has occupied that position. In the 
spring of 1877, he was united in marriage to Miss Lucy R. Wasser ; she is a native of 
Ohio, but grew up in Center Co., Penn. ; they have one daughter — Lucy Catharine. 



WEST POINT TOWNSHIP. 727 

J. T. IjEAHOIV, firm of Leamon & Emrich, furniture and undertakers, 
Lena; he was born March 23, 1822, iu Union Co., Penn. ; in 1857, he came to 
Stephenson Co.; in 1866, he removed to Lena, and engaged in painting about four 
years ; he then commenced his present business ; he owns 100 acres of land in Kent 
Township, valued at $50 per acre. Married Caroline Pauling Nov. 26, 1846 ; she was 
born in Dauphin Co., Penn. ; they had ten children, six living — Anna M., now Mrs. 
Emrich; Alveretta, now Mrs. Weary; Robert B., Belle, now Mrs. Wilson; Kate and 
George. H. S. Emrich, of the above firm, was born March 28, 1842, in Center Co., 
Penn. ; in 1865, he came to Stephenson Co., engaged in merchandising till 1876, when 
he commenced in this business ; he owns 90 acres of land, valued at $50 an acre, also 
160 acres in Dakota Territory. He married Miss Anna M. Leamon Dec. 22, 1870; 
she was born in Union Co., Penn. ; they have three children — Birdie, William and 
George L. 

JACOB LECKINGTOtf, farmer, Sec. 25; P. O. Lena ; born July 21, 
1810, in Juniata Co., Penn.; in 1852, he came to Stephenson Co.; he owns 175 
acres of land. Married Jane Acker in 1833 ; she was born Nov. 17, 1812, in Juniata 
Co., Penn. ; died May, 1852 ; have seven children — Anna, Elizabeth, Rudolph, Amelia, 
Ephraim, Mary and Henry. Second marriage to Barbara Hater, in 1857 ; she was 
born in Germany ; have three children — Wilmet, Isaiah and Emma. 

J. C. LOHR, farmer, Sec. 6; P. O. Lena; born July 29, 1834, in Fayette 
Co., Penn.; in March, 1870, he came to Carroll Co.; in 1877, he came to his present 
farm ; he owns 120 acres of land. Married Mary A. Gerhart, April 16, 1855 ; she was 
born in Westmoreland Co., Penn.; they had seven children, five living — John F., Will- 
iam W., Albert W.. Edwin G. and Leroy O. L. He is a Presbyterian in religion, and 
a Republican in politics. 

H. LOOM IS. farmer, Sec. 35; P. O. Lena ; born April 29, 1816, in Litch- 
field Co., Conn.; when a child he came with his parents to Geauga Co., Ohio ; in 1840, 
he came to Stephenson Co.; in the spring of 1841 he returned to Ohio ; he bought a 
farm of 100 acres ; in about 1852, he sold this farm and returned to this county ; he 
now owns 242 acres of land. He married Miss A. Kelly, July — , 1873 ; she was 
born in New York ; they have four children — Warren E., Sarah R., C. H., and Henry 
Charles. 

W. W. IiOWIS, editor Lena Star, Lena; born Feb. 10, 1846, in Spauld- 
ing, Lincolnshire, England ; in 1850, he came with his parents to Janesville, Wis.; in 
1852, he came to Freeport, 111., and commenced the printing business ; he was foreman 
of the Bulletin office ten years ; in 1875, he went to Lanark, Carroll Co., and published 
the Carroll County Gazette ; in 1878, he came to Lena, and has edited the Lena Star 
since then. He married Miss M. J. Newcomer, Jan. 6, 1870 ; she was born in 
Freeport; they had one child — Oristes, who died in 1875, aged 4 years. 

JOHN McCUIXOCH, firm of J. McCulloch & Son, foundry and machine 
shop, Lena ; born Oct. 23, 1830, in Franklin Co., Penn.; in 1858, he came to Stephen- 
son Co., and settled on a farm, where he remained until April, 1867, when he came to 
Lena and commenced their present business; his brother, Henry H, enlisted in 1861, 
in the First Pennsylvania Cavalry, and was killed at the battle of Richmond in 1864. 
He married Miss Margaret Bupp in July, 1852; she was born in 1833 in Pennsylvania, 
and died in 1867 ; they have three children — Emma, George H. and Ella; his second 
marriage was to Miss Susan Aul, in 1868; she was born in Ohio; they have four 
children — Isabella, James, Charles and Nina. Lutheran in religion. 

DR. J. McFATRICH, physician and surgeon, Lena ; born Feb. 20, 1829 ; 
in Mercer Co., Penn.; in 1846, he attended college at Meadville, Penn.; in 1848, he 
commenced a regular course at the Eclectic Medical College, and graduated in 1852 ; 
he then came to Monroe, Wis.; in 1854, he came to Rockford ; in 1857, he removed 
to Waterloo, Iowa, and thence to the Rocky Mountains, where he remained until 1859 ; 
in 1861, he came to Lena, where he has since resided; he has been County Super- 
intendent two years. He married Miss Martha J. Tittsworth, in 1854; she was born 
in Aurora, 111.; they have three children — James B., now attending the Upper Iowa 



728 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

University, Fayette, Fayette Co., preparing for the medical profession ; Mary E. and 1 
George W. The family attend the Presbyterian Church. 

A. J. MACOMBER, general merchandise, Waddam's Grove ; born April 4, 
1852, in Winslow Township; his parents came to Stephenson Co., in 1835, and still 
reside in Winslow Township ; at about the age of 20, he commenced teaching school, 
which he continued for about three years ; in 1878 he came to Waddam's Grove and 
engaged in the stock business, then engaged in his present business. Married Miss 
Elizabeth Bell, Feb. 10, 1878 ; she was born in Hazel Green, 111. ; they have one child 
— Juna. 

JOHN HIAHOX, farmer, Sec. 2; P. 0. Nora; born March 24, 1836, in 
Harrison Co., Ohio, in 1855 ; he came to Stephenson Co. ; he then removed to Jo 
Daviess, remained there eight years ; in 1878 he came to his present locality ; he owns 440 
acres of land ; when he left Ohio he first removed to Green Co., Wis. ; on his arrival in 
Wisconsin he had but $20. He married Amelia Tilton, Feb. 20, 1860 ; she was born in. 
1842, in Rochester, N. Y. ; they have seven children — George, Mary, Ida, Cora, Nellie, 
Effie and Charles. 

JOHN MASTERS, carpenter and farmer, Sec. 5 ; P. O. Lena; born Sept. 
30, 1843, in Washington Co., Md.; in 1854 he came to Louisa Co., Iowa; in 1857 he 
came to Stephenson Co., Ill ; he owns 80 acres of land ; he has been working at the 
carpenter trade since 1854. Married Miss Kreitzer, Dec. 1879 ; she was born in Lee 
Co., 111. 

JOHN METZ, druggist, Lena ; born 1829, in Germany ; July, 1843, he came 
to New York, thence to Wisconsin, with his parents ; there he commenced the boot and 
shoe trade ; in 1868 he removed to Lena and commeuced his present business ; when 
in Wisconsin he was Superintendent of the Poor House for eight years, this position he 
resigned ; he has also been County Superintendent there three terms ; has been three 
years Justice of the Peace, is now Town Treasurer. Married Johanna Hoffman, in 1852 ; 
she was born in Bavaria ; they have five children — Lydia, Carrie, Bertha, Robert and 
Cora. Mr. Metz is a Lutheran in religion. 

D. C. MILLER, farmer, Sec. 7 ; P. O. Waddam's Grove ; born May 27, 1840, 
in Clarion Co., Penn. ; in 1850 he came to Stephenson Co., with his parents, where he 
has since lived ; he owns 180 acres of land, which he has well improved. Married 
Miss Rosetta Schudt, in 1860, she was born in Germany; they have three children — 
George, Augustus and Oscar. Mr. Miller is a Lutheran in religion, and a Democrat in 
politics. 

MRS. ELVIRA MONTAGUE, Sec. 6 ; P. O. Waddams Grove ; she was 
born Dec. 2, 1822, in Renssalear Co., N. Y. ; when about 12 years old she came with 
her parents to Rochester, N. Y. ; in 1856, she came to Stephenson County. She mar- 
ried Myron Ferguson in 1838 ; he was born in 1814 ; died in February, 1857 ; they 
have four sons and one daughter. Her second marriage was to Luman Montague ; he 
died Oct. 6, 1875, in his 73d year ; she owns 80 acres of land, where she now resides. 

HENRY C.MONTAGUE, farmer ; Lena; born Jan. 23, 1846, in Ste- 
phenson Co., 111. ; his parents came to this county in 1835, and settled on a farm just 
north of Waddams Grove, where they both died ; his father died Oct. 6, 1875, aged 
73; his mother died in September, 1866, aged 60 years; his father owned, at the time 
of his death, about 500 acres of land, which has been divided among his family ; 
Henry C. owns the homestead, consisting of 260 acres of land. He married Miss 
Anna Drew, Jan. 18, 1870 ; she was born in Canada, Sept. 8, 1847 ; died Jan. 19, 
1880; her parents came to Stephenson County in 1852; they have two children — Frank 
L. and Blanche E. The family attend the M. E. Church ; Republican in politics. 

DR. W. P. NARAMORE, physician and surgeon, Lena; born in Decem- 
ber, 1825, in Seneca Co., N. Y. ; in 1832, he came with his mother to Ohio; at about 
the age of 18 he commenced the study of medicine at the Willoughby Medical Col- 
lege, and graduated from the Sterling Medical College, Columbus, Ohio, in 1852, and 
has been in constant practice since 1 846 ; he is the oldest resident physician in this 



WEST POINT TOWNSHIP. 729 

county ; he owns a farm of 240 acres, adjoining Lena, where he resides. He has been 
a member of the Board of Supervisors about fifteen years; he represented this county 
in the Legislature from 1852 to 1856; was also in the Constitutional Convention, at 
Springfield, during 1861 and 1862 ; he has held other minor offices. Married Miss 
Lucy A. Jones in 1848; she was born in 1826 in Pennsylvania; died in 1858 ; they 
have two children — W. W. and John M. ; his second marriage was to Miss Mary 
Bower, October, 1859 ; she was born in Pennsylvania; they have five children — Milton 
0., Martha L., Susan, Lottie May and George H. They attend the Christian Church; 
Republican in politics. 

W. A. NEWELL, ticket agent and telegraph operator I. C. R. R.,Lena; 
born Dec. 15, 1847, in Huntington Co., Penn. ; when a child he came to Ogle County 
with his parents; in 1870, he was employed by the I. C. R. R. at Macon, 111.; in 1871, 
he came to Wenona, 111., as telegraph operator; in 1872, he came to his present posi- 
tion. Married Eliza Griffin in 1870 ; she was born in New York ; they have three 
children — Ina, Edith and Jennie. Lutheran in religion ; Democrat in politics. 

J. H. OZBURN, agent I. C. R. R. and American Express Co. and Post- 
master, Waddams Grove; born Dec. 3, 1828, in Huntington Co., Penn.; in 1857, he 
came to Davenport, Iowa; in 1858, to Pontiac, 111. ; in 1859, he came to Stephenson 
Co. and engaged in farming till 1869 ; in 1871, he started merchandising in Waddams 
Grove, and continued till 1878; he was appointed to his present position in 
1875 ; was appointed Postmaster in 1872 ; he built the brick store in Lena, now occu- 
pied by John Metz. He married Miss Elizabeth Stem in 1856; she was born in Penn- 
sylvania; they have five children — Mary J., Sada J., John T., Maud H. and Nellie. 
Presbyterians in religion ; Democratic in politics. 

E. T. PERRY, farmer, Sec. 35; P. 0. Lena; born Sept. 2, 1817, in Jef- 
ferson Co., N. Y. ; in September, 1839, he came to Stephenson County; he owns 218J 
acres of land, part of which he entered ; he has been Constable, School Trustee and 
Magistrate ; has been for six years a member of the Board of Supervisors ; has served 
as Assessor four years. He married Mary Howard in 1841 ; she was born in Jefferson 
Co., N. Y. ; they have four children — Louisa, James H., Justus C. and Parker. Bap- 
tist religion. 

D. T. PERRY% farmer, Sec. 34; P. 0. Howardsville ; born Dec. 25, 1809, 
in Oneida Co., N. Y. ; in 1837, he came to Stephenson County; he owns 62 i acres of 
land ; he has been Assessor, has been School Director about forty years, and has been 
five years County Superintendent. He married Polly Howard in December, 1834 ; she 
was born in Jefferson Co., N. Y., in 1812, and died in September, 1878; they have 
four children — David H., Belle, Douglas and Emery; lost Martin, aged 7 years and 7 
months; his second marriage was to Mrs. Bennett, in August, 1879; she was born ia 
Kentucky ; she has three sons and one daughter by a former marriage. 

JOHN REEDER, proprietor of Lena Elevator, Lena ; born Aug. 15, 1836. 
in Frankfort on the Main ; in 1855 he came to Lancaster, Penn. ; in 1856 he came to 
Freeport, 111. ; in 1857 he removed to Lena, worked at the brick-mason trade till 1861, 
when he enlisted in Co. G. 15th I.; V. I. served fourteen months; was at the battle of 
Pittsburg Landing; he then returned to Lena and carried on the grain business ; in 1873 
he bought the elevator, which he now occupies. Married Miss Elizabeth Lapp, in 1856 ; 
she was born in Summit Co., Ohio; they have eight children — Christie E., Helen, 
Alfred L., Frank, John, Arthur, Berdie and Irvin. Mr. Beeder is a Lutheran in 
religion ; Democrat in politics. 

WILLIAM A. RICE, farmer, Sec. 6 ;- P. 0. Waddams Grove; born Aug. 
14, 1847, in Cortland Co., N. Y.; in 1863, he came to Stephenson County; he owns 
200 acres of land. He married Rose Satterlee in 1877; she was born in Stephenson 
County; they have two children — Katie and Star. His father was born Aug. 19, 
1819, in Cortland Co., N. Y.; he came to his present firm in 1863; he owns 190 acres. 
Married Eveline Prince in 1853 ; she was born in Cortland Co., N. Y. ; they have seven 



730 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

children — Frank J., Rectina, Berdette, Mary E., Edwin, George and Minnie M ; he 
has two children by a former marriage — William A. and Ira D. Republican in politics. 

SPENCER RISING, of the firm of S. Rising & Co., bankers, Lena ; born 
Nov. 14, 1835, in Albany, N. Y. ; when a child, he came with his parents to Oswego, 
Kendall Co., 111. ; in 1855, they removed to Rockford ; in 1867, he came to Lena, and 
at once entered into the banking business ; for the past four years, he has been Town- 
ship Treasurer. He married Miss Mary Meslor in 1859; she was born in New Jersey; 
they have six children, three living — Rollin S., Kate C. and Frank K. Presbyterian 
in religion ; Republican in politics. 

CORNELIUS ROUSH, dealer in groceries, coal, salt, lime, etc., Lena; 
born May 12, 1826, in Centre Co., Penn. ; in 1849, he came to Stephenson County; 
since 1856, he has been actively engaged in business; during 1860-61, he was engaged 
in the grain trade, in the firm of Gaylord & Roush ; he has been Town Trustee and 
Assessor. He married Miss Adelia A Howard Nov. 13, 1853; she was born in New 
York; they have two children — Elizabeth and Fred. Lutheran in religion; Repub- 
lican in politics. 

CAPT. JOHN M. SCHERMERHORN, Postmaster, Lena ; born May 
17, 1830, in Fultonville, N. Y. ; when a boy, he came with his parents to Centreville, 
St. Joseph Co., Mich. ; in 1845, they removed to Stephenson County, where he has 
remained; he received the appointment of Postmaster in 1869. He enlisted in 1862 in 
Co. G, 92d I. V. I.; served to the end of the war, at which time he held a commission 
as Captain. Married Rachel J. Dodds in 1858 ; she was born in Indiana ; they have 
five children — Finley F., Almeda, Nettie, W. W. and Cora. 

AUGUST SCHUDT, farmer, Sec. 6 ; P. 0. Lena; born Sept. 19, 1837, 
in Germany ; in 1849, he came to Buffalo, N. Y. ; engaged in lumbering and farming ; 
in 1861, he came to his present locality; he owns 385 acres of land, which he has 
improved with a good, substantial barn and other improvements. Married Rosa Sharp 
in 1865; she was born in Wurtemberg ; they have three children — Cornelia, Arthur 
and Otto. Lutheran in religion. 

A. SHANNON, firm of Shannon & Co., carriage manufacturers, Lena ; born 
May 23, 1834, in Centre Co., Penn ; at about the age of 18, he was apprenticed to the 
carriage business, and worked at this trade about fifteen years ; from 1868 to 1873, he 
held the office of Justice of the Peace and Conveyancer, Secretary of the Farmers' 
Mutual Fire Insurance Company ; and in 1873 he came to Lena and commenced his 
present business. Married Miss Isabella Royer in 1856 ; she was born in Centre Co., 
Penn. ; they have four children — John H., Sarah J., Anna M. and Oris W. Lutheran 
in religion ; Democrat in politics. 

L.EVI SHERMAN, capitalist, Lena; born May 8, 1822, in Essex Co., 
N. Y. ; June 1, 1850, he came to Stephenson County; he owns 200 acres of land, 
which he has improved, and has always been engaged in farming till he came to Lena ; 
he has been School Director, Town Treasurer, etc.. He married, Oct. 25, 1847, Miss 
Harriet, daughter of James and Lovecy Fowler ; she was born in Manchester, Vt.; 
they have an adopted daughter — Elizabeth, now Mrs. Damert. Lutheran in religion. 

A. H. STAHIj, proprietor Lena Steam Mill, Lena; born Feb. 27, 1821, in 
Perry Co., Penn., now Snyder County ; in 1859, he came to Ogle Co., 111. ; in 1863, 
he came to Lena, first engaged in farming, and was four years in the lumber business ; 
December, 1869, he took possession of this mill ; he has been five years Town Trustee. 
Married Miss Catharine A. Crotzer Jan. 1, 1846 ; she was born in Clinton Co., Penn., 
Feb. 27, 1826 ; died Dec. 9, 1877 ; had ten children, five living — Mary C, now Mrs. 
Crane, of Freeport ; Sarah E., now Mrs. A. T. Blodgett, now living in Boone County ; 
William I., Emma and Elian Jane ; John L., died June 23, 1879, aged 28 years ; Clara, 
died April 13, 1876, aged 22 years ; lost three children died in infancy. 

E. STEVENS, farmer, Sec. 34 ; P. O. Howardsville ; born Oct. 14, 1827, in 
Cape Vincent, N. Y. ; in 1847, he came to his present farm, consisting of 180 acres of 
land, which he entered ; he was the first Township Clerk of West Point, and has held 



WEST POINT TOWNSHIP. 731 

about all the township offices. Married Miss Olive Bartals in November, 1851 ; she 
was born in 1830, in Jefferson Co., N. Y. ; died in March, 1856 ; his second marriage 
was with Miss Elizabeth Haggert, Nov. 20, 1860; she was bora in Gloversville, Fulton 
Co., N. Y.; they have three children — Sarah, Jennie and Thad. Republican in politics. 

Z. STOVER, firm of Sechler & Stover, general merchandise, Lena ; born 
May 27, 1827, in Clark Co., Ohio ; in 1855, he came to Stephenson Co. and engaged 
in farming for about ten years ; he then engaged in live stock ; continued this about 
four years ; he has also been engaged in the hardware business about nine years ; in 
April, 1879, he formed a co-partnership with Mr. Sechler in a general merchandise 
business ; he has held the office of County Supervisor about nine years ; has also been 
Township Assessor and Collector, Justice of the Peace, School Treasurer, etc. Married 
Miss Margaret Willard in 1849 ; she was born in Ohio; they have three children — 
Leora, now Mrs. Newcomer ; Lodisca and W. Willard. Lutheran in religion. 

DR. S. H. VERRECK, dentist, Lena ; born Sept. 8, 1850, in Schaghti- 
coke, Rensselaer Co., N. Y. ; in 1873, he commenced studying dentistry in Glovers- 
ville, Fulton Co., N. Y., with Dr. H. H. Read ; in the fall of 1874, he attended a course 
of lectures at Albany, N. Y. ; in the fall of 1875, he went to Philadelphia and 
attended the Philadelphia College of Dental Surgery; graduated in March, 1876 ; he 
then returned to Gloversville and formed a co-partnership with his preceptor, Dr. H. 
H. Read ; remained there till July, 1877, when he came to Lena and established his 
present business ; he holds a diploma from the Pennsylvania College of Dental Surgery 
at Philadelphia. 

JO DAVIESS WADAMS, farmer, Sec. 13 ; P. 0. Waddams Grove ; born 
Oct. 2, 1829, in Galena, 111.; at the close of the Black Hawk war he came with his 
parents to his present location ; he now owns 91 A acres of land ; his father died in 1858, 
aged 73 years; his mother died in August, 1S78, aged 79 years; he was named Jo 
Daviess after the county he was born in, and is supposed to be the first white child born 
in that county ; his father served in the Black Hawk war. 

GEN. CHARLES WAITE, druggist; born April 1, 1837, in Orange 
Co., Vt. ; in about 1840, he came to Genesee Co., N. Y., with his parents; in 1855, 
they removed to DeKalb Co., 111. He enlisted in 1862, in Co. A, 27th M. V. I., and 
served to the end of the war. He returned to Sycamore, 111., and opened a general 
store ; continued this till 1869, when he removed to Lena and commenced his present 
business. Married Miss Emily Clement in 1866; she was born in La Porte, Ind. ; 
they have three children — Charles C, Daniel and Frederick P. Episcopal in religion; 
Republican in politics. 

OH ARISES WAIjZ, firm of Damtrt & Walz, hardware, Lena ; born Jan. 
3, 1853, in Kaiserslautern, Germany ; May 1, 1873, he came to Poughkeepsie, N. Y.; 
in 1874, he came to Lena ; he first worked at the carpenter's trade, and afterward was 
employed as clerk in a coal yard; March 29, 1880, he formed a co-partnership in the 
above firm ; he owns a house and three lots in town. He married Elizabeth Boehm, 
Aug. 1, 1876 ; she was born in Newark, N. J.; they have two children — William C. 
and Charlotte C. Lutheran in religion. 

A. WEAVER, retired, Lena; born Aug. 1, 1812, in Westmoreland Co., 
Penn.; in 1853, he came to Stephenson Co., and engaged in farming until 1862, when 
he came to Lena and engaged in the lumber trade about eighteen months ; he then 
opened a general merchandise business, the firm being Weaver & Sechler; this he continued 
until April 1879, when he withdrew from the business; he owns business and residence 
property in town. He is a member of the Baptist Church, having joined this denomi- 
nation at the age of 21 ; his family also are all members of this church. He married 
Margaret Grossman in 1854; shp was born in Pennsylvania; they have five children — 
Samuel, William, Sidney, Ida and Albert ; lost Jacob, aged 6 years. 

MOSES WEAVER, deceased; he was born March 1, 1822, in Adams 
Co., Penn.; in 1857, he came to Stephenson Co. and settled on a farm in Waddams 
Township; here he remained until 1860, when he removed to Lena, where he remained 



732 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

until his death, which occurred Sept. 27, 1874. When he first came to Lena he was 
engaged as clerk for F. Rebor, in general merchandise ; the following year he left the 
employment of Mr. Rebor and entered into the grain trade, which he continued until 
the time of his death ; in the fall of 1861, he bought a stock of general merchandise, 
and carried on the business until 1863, when he closed out the stock and opened an 
agricultural warehouse ; he has been a number of years School Director, and principally 
through his exertions Lena is indebted for the fine schoolhouse which is located 
there ; he was also a member of the Town Board ; he built and occupied the elevator 
which bears his name. He married Miss Fannie D. Hines, December, 1847; she was 
born in Franklin Co., Vt.; they had seven children, five living — Flora (now Mrs. 
Winter), Ada (now Mrs. Clark), Bertram, Sarah and Sherman; they lost two children 
in infancy. Presbyterian in religion. 

MILES WHITE, general merchandise, Lena; born Feb. 17, 1841, in Jef- 
ferson Co., N. Y.; in 1852, he came to Waddams Grove with his parents ; in 1865, he 
enlisted in Co. E. 7th I. V. C, and served to the end of the war; in May, 1866, 
he removed to Lena and started a small grocery ; he now carries a large and well-selected 
stock ; he owns the brick store which he occupies and other property in town. He 
married Miss Ellen Flemming July 4, 1862; she was born in Cumberland Co., Penn.; 
they had six children, four living — Wilbur E., Reuben Miles, Oscar C. and Herbert 
E. Baptist in religion ; Republican in politics. 

HENRY WINtwART, Justice of the Peace and insurance agent, Lena ; 
born Feb. 7, 1828, in Union Co., Penn.; Nov. 21, 1852, he came to Stephenson Co.; 
in 1854, he removed to Mt. Carroll, 111.; in 1857, he came to Jo Daviess Co.; in 1867, 
he returned to Stephenson Co., where he has since resided ; when in Mt. Carroll he 
followed brick-making and the carpenter's trade, also in Jo Daviess Co. He was elected 
Justice of the Peace in 1869 ; in 1870, he received a commission as Notary Public; 
he was elected County Superintendent in 1859, in Jo Daviess Co.; held this office until 
1865 ; he then enlisted in Co. G, 39th I. V. I., and served to the close of the war. He 
married Elizabeth Hildebrand, Dec. 25, 1849 ; she was born in Union Co., Penn.; they 
had six children, four living — Isabella E. (now Mrs. M. F. Haladay), George E., Frank 
J. and Cora E. The family attend the M. E. Church ; Republican in politics. 

WILLIAM YAGER, farmer, Sec. 9; P. 0. Lena; born Dec. 24, 1836, 
in Germany; in 1851, he came to New York City; in 1854, he came to his present 
farm ; he owns 354 acres of land, well improved ; his buildings are probably the best in 
the township ; his house is built of brick, and cost about $4,000 ; his barn is 40x64, 
costing Si, 600, and other improvements which he has added to this farm since coming 
here. Married Anna Leckington, June, 1860; she was born in Pennsylvania; they 
have four children — Emma, Jennie, Hattie and John W. Democrat in politics. 



ROCK GROVE TOWNSHIP. 

JACOB ASHEN FELTER, farmer, Sec. 33 ; P. O. Rock Grove ; born 
in York Co., Penn., October, 1808, where he learned millwrighting ; he worked in Center, 
Mifflin, Somerset and Huntingdon Counties; moved West in the fall of 1847, and 
bought his farm in 1848, of William Wilson, containing 150 acres, valued at $50 per 
acre. In 1837, was married to Miss Rebecca H. Miles, of Pennsylvania; their family 
were Cyrus, who served in the 46th I. V. I., deceased ; Susan, married to P. Dinges, 
deceased ; Franklin, deceased, died from disease contracted in the army ; belonged to 
the 46th f. V. I.; Mary Jane and Homer, at home ; there were also two infants, de- 
ceased. Mr. Ashenfelter has held school and township offices ; in politics, a Demo- 
crat ; his family attends the Reform Church, at Walnut Grove. 

EDWARD BARKER, farmer, Sec. 34 ; P. O. Davis ; born in Franklin 
Co., Vt., Jan. 12, 1807 ; came to Stephenson Co., in 1842, and settled on his present 



ROCK GROVE TOWNSHIP. 733 

farm, which he entered and now owns; it contains 140 acres. In 1835, was married 
to Miss Mary Warner, of Vermont ; they have eight children — Mary, now married; 
Isaac A., Jay W., Martha, now Mrs. Williams; William H., Charles J., Theodore S. 
and Jerusha M. Mr. Barker has been Justice of the Peace, and held school offices ; in 
politics, a Republican ; he had two sons in the army, Jay W. and Theodore S. 

N. J. BARIMORE, farmer, Sec. 27 ; P. 0. Orangeville ; bom in Greene Co., 
Penn., Feb. 11, 1828; at the age of 13, removed to Ohio, with his parents, Joseph 
and Saloma Barimore ; he lived in Ohio eight years, removed to Wisconsin, in 1849 ; 
from Wisconsin, came to Stephenson Co., 111., in the spring of 1851 ; his parents came 
here in 1849, and, after two years here, removed to Wisconsin ; they both died there, 
the father aged about 82 years ; the mother, aged about 67 years. Mr. B.'s farm 
embraces 280 acres ; 26»t in the home farm, and 20 acres of timber land in Wisconsin ; 
he has held school offices, School Trustee, School Treasurer, etc., most of the time 
since he has been here ; religion, M. E. Church ; politics, Democrat. He was married 
in 1851 to Miss Susan Stair, a native of Indiana ; with her parents, Jacob and 
Elizabeth Stair ; came to Wisconsin in the fall of 1837, settling near the 
Illinois line ; they permanently resided near the place of their first location in Wis- 
consin ; her mother died about a year after their settlement in Wisconsin, aged 37 
years ; her father died in 1864, aged 64 years. Mr. and Mrs. Barimore, have seven 
children living — Saloma E., Frank G., Mary K., Jacob 8., Jennie, Bennie and Ruth 
Anna ; two children deceased, William and Widdie. 

HUGH BENNEHOFF, farmer, Sec. 26; P. 0. Rock Grove; born in 
Union Co., Penn., Feb. 5, 1831 ; he came to Stephenson Co., 111., with his father, 
Daniel, and the family ; Rachel, who married Mr. Kuns, and is now a widow ; Market, 
now Mrs. Reese ; William and Daniel ; they stopped in Cedarville, and Hugh went to 
Rock Grove, learned the harness trade; then he went to Jude, Wis., and worked at 
brick-making, and his trade; moved to Shannon, where he farmed, in 1864 or 1865 ; 
settled on the old farm on Sec. 25, where he owns 163 acres, valued at $55 an acre. 
In 1856, he married Miss Elizabeth Kramer, of Pennsylvania; their family are Mary 
E., Ida J., John W., Susan E., Charles F., William C. and a twin brother who died while 
yet an infant. Mr. Bennehoff has been Collector and Road Commissioner on the Repub- 
lican ticket, and his family attend the Lutheran Church. 

H. H. BOIiENDER, merchant, Rock Grove ; born in Rock Grove Town- 
ship, Stephenson Co., 111., Aug. 26, 1853; he was raised on a farm and at the age of 
22 went clerking for Harver & Staver, in Monroe, then for F. S. Parlin ; in 1879, he 
went to Rock Grove and established his present business ; now carry between $4,000 
and $5,000 worth of stock, with a steadily increasing trade. In 1879, he married Miss 
P. E. Holmes, of Green Co., Wis. Mr. Bolender's father, Levi, was born Nov. 12, 
1822; his mother, Sarah Haas, April 27, 1834 ; the children were Henry H.,the subject 
of this sketch ; Emma C, born June 21, 1855 ; David C, born Dec. 29, 1856 ; William, 
-deceased, born May 23, 1859 ; Allen F., born March 1. 1861 ; Amanda J., born Dec. 
8, 1863; Edward J., born Sept. 4, 1866; Ida May, born March 31, 1868; John A., 
born May 10, 1870; Jay H., born Jan. 11,1872; Clayton S., deceased, born Aug. 1, 1876. 

SAMUEL CHAMBERS, farmer, Sec. 24 ; P. O. Rock Grove ; born in 
West Buffalo Township, Union Co., Penn., Sept. 23, 1813 ; he came out West, in 1835, 
in company with his brother Thomas, on horseback, and stopped in Jo Daviess Co., 
111. ; in 1836, moved to Rock Grove and bached with his brother, engaged, in the mean 
while, breaking prairie ; he claimed and entered the farm on which he lives and now 
owns 190 acres; his brother Robert, who came out after he did, died in 1SJ4, and his 
heirs now hold the estate, and Benjamin, another brother, came in 1839, and farms on 
the next section. In 1841, he married Miss Elizabeth Musser, of Union Co., Penn. ; 
born in 1819, May 10; their children's names are Joseph M., Rebecca E., afterward 
Mrs. Hessman, now dead ; Robert T., Mary, afterward Mrs. McCalla, now dead ; John 
J., Anna E., now Mrs. Brenizer ; Benjamin F. and Nancy L. Mr. Chambers has held 
the office of School Trustee for fifteen years, Supervisor eight years, and has been 
Assessor on the Democratic ticket. He belongs to the M. E. Church, at Jefferson, Wis. 



734 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

H. CL.EVENSTINE, merchant, Rock Grove; born Oct, 16, 1821, in 
Union Co., Penn., and was raised in Center Co. ; lived in Pennsylvania till the spring 
of 1857, when he came to Stephenson Co., 111. ; after a few months here, he took a 
trip through Iowa, and, in the fall of 1858, went to Wisconsin, where he lived for ten 
years; returned to Stephenson Co. in the fall of 1868, and has since resided in this 
county ; was in mercantile business for some years before coming here in 1868, and for 
all of the time since that date ; has been Postmaster of Rock Grove since the spring of 
1873 or 1874, and has been School Trustee two or three terms; politics, Democratic."' 
He was married, in October, 1869, to Miss Lettice Williams, a native of Pennsylvania ; 
their children living are Hiram Albert, Cyrus Sterling and Emmert Christian ; one 
child, John Henry, died April 8, 1880, aged 7 months. 

C. J. COOPER, farmer, Sec. 5 ; P. 0. Rock Grove ; born in Bucks Co., 

Penn., May 26, 1810 ; twelve years later, his father moved West, coming to Clarke Co., 
111., where they remained eleven years ; then bought and settled on a small place in 
Crawford Co.; lived eleven years there, removing to Stephenson Co. in 1844. Mr. 
Cooper first saw this region before Stephenson Co., was yet embraced in Jo Daviess 
Co. ; the period referred to was when he was here as a soldier in the Black 
Hawk war, in 1832; in that war he was a soldier in Capt. Royal A. Knott's 
Company, 1st Regiment, commanded by Col. Blackburn, and of the 2d Brigade, 
commanded by Gen. Alexander, and saw the most of the war, of which so few soldiers 
yet survive. His occupation has been chiefly farming, though for a good many winters 
was engaged in operating saw-mills, etc. ; he has 152 acres of farm land and 30 acres of 
timber land, all in Rock Grove Township. Held the office of School Director for 
seventeen years, and for many years also served in various township offices. In religious 
matters, he was born and bred a Quaker ; in politics, he is Republican. He was married, 
July 28, 1840, to Miss Margaret A. Thompson, a native of Virginia ; she came, at an 
early day, with her parents, Robert and Susannah Thompson, to Clarke Co., 111., though 
they lived most of the time afterward in Crawford Co. ; they came there about 1 838 
or 1839, her grandfather having moved there as early as 1825 ; Mrs. Cooper died Jan. 
31, 1880, aged over 58 years. The children living are Robert T., Barton, Joseph, 
Margaret, now Mrs. N. E. Emrick ; Susan L. and C. J. ; two children deceased — Mary 
E. (Mrs. Jacob Fisher) and Harlan. 

W. L<. COOPER, retired, Rock Grove ; born in Delaware, April 11, 1807 ; 
a year or two later his parents returned to Pennsylvania, having moved from that State 
to Delaware, and lived in Delaware only about two years ; they lived in Bucks Co., 
Penn., until about 1823, when they removed to Crawford Co., 111., and lived in Craw- 
ford and Clarke Cos. thereafter ; his parents, Amos and Hannah Cooper, both died in 
Clarke Co., 111. — his father aged 63 years, and his mother, about 60 ; his grandfather, 
William Cooper, also his grandfather on his mother's side, John Lloyd, both lived and 
died in Montgomery Co., Penn. The subject of this sketch was married May 10, 
1831, in Crawford Co., 111., to Miss Elizabeth Beems ; she was born and raised near 
Williamsburg, Whitley Co., Ky., on the Cumberland River; she is a daughter of James 
and Nancy Beems, who were quite early settlers on the Cumberland River, coming 
there from Virginia, and both died there at the advanced age of over 90 years. Mr. 
and Mrs. Cooper have had eight children, seven of whom are living ; those living are 
Ann (now Mrs. Daniel Thompson), Hannah (now Mrs. Valentine Haas), James, Mary 
(now Mrs. Jonathan Smull), Henry, Eliza (now Mrs. Charles Hennick), and Elizabeth 
(now Mrs. Franklin Boyd); the third child, George, died at Rock Grove, at the age of 
18 years; in 1840, Mr. Cooper removed from Crawford Co. to Will Co., some nine 
or ten miles from Joliet ; lived there one year; then came West, in 1841, the land 
not being yet in the market ; entered his land from the Government, so that his farm- 
work was commenced here with the ground in its original state of uncultivated wild- 
ness ; was engaged in farming until the last ten or twelve years, when, being too old for 
hard farm labor, he sold his farm, and has since lived in the village of Rock Grove ; has 
a good house and lot, horse and buggy, and, with enough money at interest to yield him 
a living, is enjoying a quiet old age ; he has done his part well in the affairs of his com- 



ROCK GROVE TOWNSHIP. 735 

munity ; has been for many years a School Director, and has held various township 
offices. Religion, M. E. Church ; politics, Republican. 

GEOR(jcE A. EMRICK, merchant, Rock Grove; born in Stephenson 
Co. July 2, 1853; has always lived in the county; has been engaged in farming; 
afterward moved to Rock Grove, where he worked at painting, etc.; since the fall 
of 1879, has been engaged in merchandising. Politics, Democratic. He was mar- 
ried, in 1878, to Miss Annie Cooper; she was also born in Stephenson Co.; they 
have one child — Bert C. 

II. Ii. EM. RICK., proprietor Commercial House. Rock Grove ; born in 
Stephenson Co., in 1857, and has all his life been a resident of the county ; in 
his boyhood was twelve years employed in the hotel with his father ; was then two 
years engaged in farming ; after this for two years was employed in painting ; for 
the past six months has had the mail route from Rock Grove to Rock City ; on 
the 1st of April, 1880, opened the Commercial House, and, assisted by his worthy 
wife, who is a model housekeeper, is keeping an excellent hotel, which merits and 
receives a large share of public patronage. In politics, Mr. E. is Democratic. He was 
married, Oct., 30, 1879, to Miss Mary E. Bolender, also a native of Stephenson 
Co., and a daughter of Adam Bolender, a well-known and highly esteemed citizen, 
who resides near Rock Grove. 

JACOB FISHER, deceased ; the subject of this sketch, an old settler 
and respected citizen of Rock Grove, was born near the city of Reading, Berks Co., 
Penn., in the year 1808 ; he was principally raised in Center Co., and lived there 
until his removal to Stephenson Co., 111., in October, 1840, nine years after his 
marriage ; his vocation was farming. He was a member of the Lutheran Church ; 
in politics, he affiliated with the Democratic party ; served many terms as School 
Director, and in various other local official positions ; his death occurred in August, 
1870. He was married, in 1831, to Miss Mary Moyers, a worthy lady, who was 
born in Lebanon Co., Penn., in 1807; the children living are John S., Jacob M., 
Mary and Solomon H.; those deceased are Anna Louisa, Samuel C, Susan M., 
Hiram W., William Irvin, and one who died in infancy. 

JOHN S. FISHER, farmer, Sec. 26 ; P. O. Rock Grove ; born in Centre 
Co., Penn., Feb. 1, 1832 ; came to Stephenson Co., 111., with his parents Jacob and 
Mary Fisher, in October, 1840 ; has been chiefly engaged in farming, his home-farm 
comprising 125 acres ; is the present Supervisor for his township, and has filled the 
same position several previous terms ; has also been Road Commissioner, Town Clerk, 
etc. Politics, Democrat. He was married Aug. 26, 1858, to Miss Sarah Wise, a native 
of Union Co., Penn. ; they have one child living — Emerson D. ; three children deceased 
— Newton Bateman, Clayton Hamilton and Samuel S. 

SAMUEL H. FISHER, retired, Rock Grove ; born near Millheim, Centre 
Co., Penn., Jan. 18, 1822 ; was in Stephenson Co. as early as 1843, and was also here 
temporarily during each of the years 1844, 1847 and 1848; has been a permanent 
resident here since the fall of 1852 ; was in mercantile business as a clerk in Pennsyl- 
vania previous to his coming here, and in business for himself in Rock Grove up to 
1857 ; for some ten years — from 1858 or 1859 — he was in the grain business in Dakota, 
in company with J. D. Schmeltzer, the firm name being Fisher & Schmeltzer, and, 
in company with his partner, put up the warehouse now occupied by ^fche last-named 
member of that firm ; except managing his farms, etc., has done no active business since 
1868 or 1869. In politics, he is a Democrat. He was married in 1861 to Miss 
Catharine A. Mingle, also a native of Millheim, Centre Co., Penn. ; their children are 
John H., Edwin J., Franklin D., and a daughter, Katie, who died at 3 months old. 
Mr. Fisher's ancestors were from Germany ; on his father's side from Wurtemberg, on 
his mother's side from Alsace ; they came from Germany to Berks Co., Penn., about 
150 or 200 years ago, and he is of the fourth or fifth generation since their coming to 
America. His parents were Jacob and Susan Fisher, his mother's maiden name being 
Susan Haberacker ; they first lived near the city of Reading, Berks Co., removing from 
there to Centre Co. in 1810; his father died March 29, 1829, aged 55 years; his 



736 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

mother died April 29, 1862, aged 83 years. Mrs. Fisher is a daughter of David and 
Lydia Mingle, who, with their family, came to Stephenson Co. in the spring of 1853 ; 
her father died at her house in Rock Grove, June 29, 1872, aged over 77 years ; her 
mother died at the residence of J. D. Schmeltzer, in December, 1868, aged over 62 
years. 

SOLOMON FISHER, farmer, Sec. 26; P. 0. Rock Grove; born in 
Centre Co., Penn., July 2-4, 1812; worked on a farm till 17 years of age; then for 
seven years was employed in the manufacture of pottery ; since that has been engaged 
in farming enterprises; came to Stephenson Co. in the fell of 1839, bought a claim, 
returned East, and, in the spring of 18-±0, came back to Stephenson Co. as a permanent 
resident. He was married in 1843 to Miss Barbara Bolender, a native of Union Co. 
(now Snyder Co.), Penn ; came to Stephenson Co. in 1840 with her parents, John and 
Catharine Bolender, who settled east of Rock Grove Village ; her father, John Bolender, 
died Aug. 28, 1868, aged over 72 years ; her mother, Catherine Bolender (maiden 
name Stees), died Sept. 12, 1866, aged 66 years. Mr. and Mrs. Fisher's children living 
are Catherine, now Mrs. John S. Walker ; Henry, Matildah, William, Susan and Bar- 
bara ; those deceased are Polly, Mrs. Samuel Askey ; and Samuel, the latter dying in 
infancy. Mr. F.'s farm embraces 358 acres, all in Rock Grove Township ; he has been 
always quite intimately and usefully associated with the growth and progress of his 
township ; was first Town Clerk when the township organization' was effected ; was 
School Treasurer for twenty years, and has held various other local oflices. His poli- 
tics, Democratic. 

H. O. FRANKEBERGrER, farmer, wagon manufacturer, etc., Rock 
Grove ; born in Champaign Co., Ohio, Dec. 24, 1826 ; when he was three years old, 
his parents removed to McLean Co., 111. ; after four or five years there, moved to 
Bureau Co., and after residing there a year or two, came to Stephenson Co. in Decem- 
ber, 1836 ; his parents, Eli and Caroline Frankeberger, both died in this county. He 
was married in 1857 to Miss Susan Kramer ; she was born in Pennsylvania ; when quite 
young, removed with her parents to Erie Co., Ohio, and at a later date to Illinois ; her 
father, John Kramer, died in Carroll Co. ; her mother, Mary A. Kramer, died in 
Stephenson Co. Mr. Frankeberger has 316 acres of land in Rock Grove and Dakota 
Townships, and, besides his farming, stock-raising, etc., has carried on wagon-making 
and repairing for the last thirty years ; he was Town Clerk four or five years, and for 
the last twenty-three years has been Justice of the Peace. His politics, Republican. 
Children living — Corilla J., Roush, Nellie, Elmer, William and Oscar G. ; children 
deceased — Annie, Clayton, Ai, Charles, Lolo and one who died in infancy. 

OLE O. HARDER, farmer, Sec. 2 ; P. 0. Davis; born in Norway, about 
ninety miles from Christiana, the capital, Sept. 18, 1815 ; while in Norway, he followed 
peddling; in June, 1842, he came to New York, then to Jefferson Prairie, Rock Co., 
Wis., and soon after moved to Stephenson Co., and bought a claim of L. Marsh, for 
$235; he now owns 275 acres of land ; built his house in 1855, his barn 1877, and in 
1842 was married to Miss Carrie Qvisle, of Norway ; their family consists of eight 
children — Ole E., Liddie, now Mrs. Baker; Betsy, Caroline, Jane, Lewis, Helen, now 
Mrs. Patterson ; Anna, now Mrs. Gadlset ; an infant, and a child named Anna, now 
dead. Mr. Garder has held school and township offices ; in politics, a Republican ; 
the family attend the Lutheran Church. 

MRS. HELEN GOODRICH, widow, Sec. 22; P. 0. Davis; born 
in Onondaga Co., N. Y., Jan. 16, 1825 ; her father, Amos Wright, came to Stephenson 
Co., 111., in 1840, and settled with his family in Rock Grove. In 1841, she was mar- 
ried to Lemuel Goodrich, who came to the county in 1838, in company with his 
brother David ; iu 1840, he bought his brother's share of the estate, and settled down 
on the farm Jan. 27, 1841, with his wife ; he died here in 1877, leaving a family of 
nine children living, and three dead — A. Jerome, Elora M.. Oscar A., Ella A., now 
Mrs. Potter; Alice E., now Mrs. Mather; Libbie R., now Mrs. Clark ; Herbert E., 
George L., James W., Charles and Amos. Mr. Goodrich was well known and uni- 



ROCK GROVE TOWNSHIP. 737 

versally respected ; his relatives and family now live on the estate, with three of their 
children, in the old home. 

GEORGE HASSINGER, farmer, Sec. 34 ; P. 0. Orangeville ; born in 
Snyder Co. (then Union Co.,) Penn., Aug. 23, 1811 ; removed from there to Juniata 
Co., in 1834; lived in Juniata Co., eighteen years ; came to Stephenson Co , 111., in 
March, 1855 ; has a good, well-improved farm of 120 acres, in Rock Grove Township, 
with good residence, barn, etc., and, beside this, has 40 acres timber land in Wisconsin. 
He lias held school and township offices; politics, Democrat; is a member of the 
Lutheran Church, at Orangeville. He was married, first, in 1833, to Miss Barbara Stees, 
a native of the same neighborhood in Pennsylvania; she died here in 1861. He was 
married again in 1866, to Mrs. Maria Cahoon (maiden name Gold), a native of North- 
ampton Co., Penn. By the first marriage, there are eight children living — Philip, 
Jane, Mary, Alice, John, Charles, Emma and William ; four deceased — Matildah, 
George and two who died iu infancy. By the second marriage there are two children 
— Ida May and Martin Luther. 

SOLOMON HOY, deceased ; the subject of this sketch, a well-known and 
worthy citizen of this county, was born in Centre Co., Penn., Nov. 17, 1818 ; removed 
to Stephenson Co., 111., in the fall of 1849 ; during his residence in Pennsylvania, he 
was engaged in mercantile life; after coming here, he farmed for over twenty years ; 
then engaged again in mercantile business ; retired from this about a year before his death. 
He was Justice of the Peace for a number of years, and, besides this, held various 
school and township offices ; in politics, he was a member of the Democratic party ; his 
death occurred April 10, 1877 ; his estimable widow, Caroline Hoy, maiden name 
Caroline Zimmerman, was born in Center Co., Penn.; married Feb. 20, 1840 ; the 
children living are Elizabeth Roxana (now Mrs. A. W. Kaup) ; John Shuman, 
James Buchanan, Fernando Pierrie and Alferetta J; those deceased are Franklin 
Sylvester, Thomas Jefferson and Catharine Eleauora. The home farm of the family 
embraces 200 acres of fine and nicely improved land in Rock Grove Township, includ- 
ing the comfortable residence property in the town of Rock Grove. 

HARVEY KEISTER, farmer, Sec. 6 ; P. O. Rock Grove ; born in Union 
Co., Penn., July 25, 1825 ; came to Stephenson Co., 111., in the fall of 1848 ; carried on 
blacksmithing for over twenty years after coming to this county; since about 1868, 
has been engaged in farming ; resides in the village of Rock Grove, and has a good farm 
of 160 acres adjoining the town; his laud being located in Rock Grove and Dakota 
Townships. He was married in 1855, to Miss Margaret Wise, also a native of Union 
Co., Penn. ; they have had six children, three of whom are living — Benjamin H., Mar- 
garet and Flora ; three deceased — Sarah J., Willie E. and Mary A. Politics, Republican. 

LEVI KEISTER, farmer, Sec. 19 ; P. O. Rock Grove ; born in Union Co., 
Penn., Dec. 31, 1833 ; came to Stephenson Co. in 1844, with his father Benjamin and 
family — Silas, Christopher, Jacob, Sarah, now Mrs. Buchanan ; Catherine, who married 
Mr. Osborn, and after his death married Mr. Cromwell ; Esther, was Mrs. Best, now 
Mrs. Arnold, and David; they stopped in Green Co., Wis., and then came to Rock 
Grove, Sec. 33. Levi learned the carpenter's trade, and in 1867 bought this farm of John 
Sass, containing 151 acres. In 1858, married Miss Mary Jane Runkle, of Pennsylvania, 
and has a family of five children — Elizabeth C, now Mrs. Carthoman ; Amelia J., John 
G., Martha L., Anna L., an infant died ; Esther (deceased). Mr. Keister is engaged in 
apiculture, having 113 colonies. In religion, he belongs to the Reform Church; in 
politics, he is a Republican. 

C. T. KLECKNER, farmer, Sec. 22; P. O. Davis; born in Northampton 
Co., Penn., Jan. 6, 1819; in the spring of 1829 he moved to Union Co., and in 1840 
came to Stephenson Co. ; he then bought a claim of C. V. Kellogg, containing 720 
acres, and now owns about the same. In 1849, was married to Miss Mary Gift; their 
family were David H., John J. (deceased), Isaac F., Mary E. (deceased), Sarah A., 
George A., Emma C, Ella J. (deceased), Phares O., Martin E. Mr. Kleckner has held 
many positions of honor and trust in the town, and has been School Treasurer for eight 
years. In politics, a Democrat ; his family attend the Reform Church. 



738 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

DR. D. H. KLECKNER, physician and surgeon, homoeopathy, Sec. 22; 
P. 0. Davis; born in Union Co., Penn., Feb. 17, 1840; came to Stephenson Co. in 
1840 with his father, C. T. Kleckner, and grandfather, till 1863, when he went to 
farming here, and at the same time studying medicine; in 1876-77, attended the first 
course of lectures at Hahnemann College, Chicago, 111., and finished ; received his diplo- 
ma in 1879 ; returned and established himself on his farm, where he owns 125 acres. 
In 1862, he married Miss Mary A. Zimmerman, of Pennsylvania, and has a family of 
six childreo — Hiram S., Frank E., Lyman C, John H., Cyrus F. and Alice J. In 
politics, the Doctor is a Democrat, and in religion belongs to the Reform Church. 

GEORGE A. KLECKNER, farmer, Sec. 27 ; P. 0. Davis ; born in 
Stephenson Co., 111., Aus:. 27, 1849, on the homestead; he worked at home till 1872, 
when he began for himself. Jan. 9, 1872, was married to Miss Clarissa J. Martin, of 
Green Co., Wis., and moved to his farm of 90 acres, where he now resides ; they have 
one child Ora Grace. Mr. Kleckner was elected School Trustee this spring, 1880; 
he has held other offices. In politics, a Democrat. 

JOHN H. C. KMNE, farmer, Sec. 22 ; P. O. Orangeville ; born in Union 
Co., Penn., Dec. 30, 1845 ; his father's family were Susanna (now Mrs. Englehart), 
Sarah (now Mrs. Young), Maria (deceased) George, Rachel (now Mrs. HoflP), 
Lewis, David, Eli, Ellen ( now Mrs. Wells ), and the subject of this sketch ; the 
family lived near Buena Vista at first in 1856, then moved to Sec. 28, in Oneco 
Township, where his father died in 1871 ; John H. attended school in Madison, Wis., 
and worked at carpenter's trade; finally went to farming; bought this farm of 132 
acres of N. J. Barimore in 1872, and on Nov. 1, 1868, he married Miss Sarah A. 
Stair, of Green Co., Wis., and has three children — David Rollin, born Oct. 27, 1869, 
in Winona; Anna, Sept. 17, 1874, and George Wesley, born Aug. 19, 1877. Mr. 
Kline was Assessor in 1875, on the Republican ticket, and his family attends the United 
Brethren Church ; is an earnest worker in the Sabbath school. 

HENRY KLOEPPING, farmer, Sec. 4 ; P. 0. Rock Grove; born in 
Prussia, Germany, Feb. 28, 1820 ; came to America in 1851 ; stopped in St. Louis, and 
in 1852 bought a farm of Cooney Otto, in Stephenson Co., 111., of 175 acres. Was 
married to Mrs. Frederica Otto, a widow, and after her death, which occurred in 1879, 
married again in the fall, Miss Yetta Digner ; they have three children — Henry, Mena 
and Mary. Mr. Kloepping has held school offices ; his family attends the Evangelical 
Church. 

JOSEPH KRAiVIER, veterinary surgeon. Rock Grove ; born in Berks Co., 
Penn., July 1, 1808; not long after this his father sold out there and moved to Union 
Co. (now Snyder Co.), on the banks of the Susquehanna River ; living there and 
working until he had gained a little money, the subject of this sketch then came to 
Lycoming Co. ; bought a piece of land there in the timber, and lived there four years ; 
then sold that and moved to Huntingdon Co. ; bought a small mill property there, and 
operated it himself; lost his health by over-work, being sometimes in the mill for two 
weeks with no rest ; on his physician's advice he sold the mill ; then came to his brother's, 
in Seneca Co., Ohio; and from there, after a short time, to Illinois; coming into Ste- 
phenson Co., April 16, 1846; since which time he has been a resident of this county; 
paid $9 an acre for his first land here; carried on farming in connection with his prac- 
tice as veterinary surgeon ; has 228 acres of land in Rock Grove Township, besides two 
lots, a good residence, and 3f acres of pasture in the village of Rock Grove ; retired 
from active farming in October, 1868, and has since done no business except the practice 
of his profession ; has rented his land, his brother being on one part of it, his nephew 
on another. He is a member of the Reformed Church, and of the Democratic party ; 
has quite frequently held township and school offices. He was married, in 1831, to Miss 
Susan Arnold ; her native place was in Pennsylvania, and near the banks of the Sus- 
quehanna. 

A. B. MLcCAULEY, farmer, Sec. 35 ; P. O. Rock Grove ; born in Union 
Co., Penn., Feb. 11, 1831 ; when 5 years old, went from there to Ohio, and resided 
in that State until 1848, when he came to Stephenson Co., 111.; has been engaged in 



ROCK GROVE TOWNSHIP. 739 

farming for the last seven years ; for twenty-three years before that was employed at 
blacksmithing, and does some work at that business yet, in connection with farming ; 
his farm comprises 140 acres of prairie and 30 h acres of timber land, all in Rock Grove 
Township; has held school and township offices. Politics, Republican. His mother, 
Deborah McCauley, died in 1860, aged 65 years; his father, Jacob McCauley, St., died 
in 1871, aged 72 years; his wife's maiden name was Mary C. Williams; her parents, 
John and Sarah Williams, came to Stephenson Co., from Pennsylvania, in 1847, and 
have resided here since ; th<?y live with, and are cared for by, their son-in-law and 
daughter, Mr. and Mrs. McCauley ; Mr. Williams having for years been an invalid, and 
thus incapacitated for any active work, or even for walking. Mr. and Mrs. McCauley 
have three children living — John, Laura and Sarah ; three deceased — Willard, Elmer 
and Jacob. 

It, \j. MARSH, farmer, Sec. 36 ; P. 0. Davis ; born in Champaign Co., Ohio, 
Feb. 26, 1818 ; in 1827, moved to McClain Co., 111. ; then came here and located on 
Sec. 25, Range 9 east, and bought his claim of Mr. White, and entered one section and 
a quarter-section, making 960 acres. Of the original family there are but three living— 
E. J. is in Nebraska ; Elmira, now Mrs. Miller, a widow, also lives in Nebraska, and 
the subject of this sketch. In 1851 he married Miss Mary Potter, of Indiana, and they 
had a family of seven children — Aaron L. L., born June 20, 1853, now dead since Dec. 
10, 1862; Martha Sarepta, born Oct. 17, 1855, died May 8, 1875; Freedom L., born 
Sept. 27, 1827 ; Edward Hamel, born Jan. 21, 1860 ; Webster A., born May 13, 1862, 
Arthur L., born April 9, 1865 ; John W., born Jan. 2, 1871, and Sarepta M., daughter 
of iVlartha Hartman ; born April 25, 1875, and died Sept. 8, 1875. Mr. Marsh's 
family attends the Lutheran Church. He is a Republican in politics. 

GEORGE 1AURER, farmer, Sec. 32 ; P. O. Rock Grove ; born in Union 
Co., Penn., 1810; came to Stephenson Co., 111., June 6, 1840, and stopped at Barber's 
house till he had one of his own. In partnership with John Bolender, bought eleven 
80's and one 40, which they afterward divided. Mr. Maurer now owns 407 acres, 
valued at $50 per acre. In 1841, was married to Miss Elizabeth Bolender; they have 
a family of five children living — Sarah, now Mrs. J. Kennedy ; Moses, Mary, William 
and George, and four dead — Daniel. Isaac, Harriet, John. Mr. Maurer has held town- 
ship offices. In politics, a Democrat. His family attend the Presbyterian Church. 

FREDERIC POTHAST, farmer, Sec. 4; P. O. Rock Grove; born in 
Prussia, Germany, July 16, 1825; emigrated to Philadelphia, Penn., in 1852; located 
on Sec. 33, in Stephenson Co. the same year ; but sold out and bought this farm on 
which he lives, containing 118 acres, valued at $50 an acre. In 1852, was married to 
Miss Wilhelmina Schradermeier ; they had a family of six children, all of whom are now 
dead — Simon, died Nov. 26, 1879 ; Mena, died September, 1875 ; Mary, died January, 
1874; Henry, died Jan. 14, 1877; another son, named Henry, died in 1854; Fred- 
erick, died 1855. Mr. Pothast's family attends the Evangelical Church. 

EDWARD PRATT, farmer, Sec. 28; P. O. Rock Grove; born in the 
village of Perry, Wyoming Co., N. Y., April 17, 1818; he worked at blacksmithing in 
Ohio for an uncle; went back to New York, and started with Benjamin Chadburn for 
Michigan, and from there to Chicago, where he engaged in driving a stage ; in 1841 he 
came to Stephenson Co., and drove for Fink & Walker. In November, 1842, was married 
to Miss Eva Wright, of New York. He then started, with David Clay, a shop in Free- 
port ; but in 1845 went to work for the Grand Latour Plough Company; his health 
failing he started on the road ; went to farming in 1857. In March, 1871, bought this 
farm of J. B. Wymer for $12,000 (241 acres) ; now owns 190. Had a family of six 
children — Mary J., Marcus (deceased), James (deceased), Elias (deceased), an infant 
(deceased) ; Charles W., working the farm. Mr. Pratt has held township and school 
offices. In politics, a Democrat. 

CALVOJ PRESTON, farmer, Sec. 28 ; P. O. Davis ; born in Union Co., 
Penn., Feb. 9, 1817 ; he learned mill-wrighting, and started for the West with his 
brother Wilson ; came up with Abraham Snyder and William Furst, and then came to 
Freeport ; he was engaged in the Davis Rock Run Saw-mill, Saulsbury am! Nelan Mills ; 



740 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

also on the Wapello Mills, in Jo Daviess Co. He arrived in Stephenson Co. in 1840,. 
and in 1843 married Miss Catherine Williams, of Pennsylvania, who died in 1873. In 
1846, worked on the Cedarville Mills ; in 1847, on the Lurch Mill, and, in 1848, on the 
Scioto Mill, but has settled down on his farm on Sec. 28, where he owns 140 acres. 
He married again, in 1876, to Mrs. McGrew, of Iowa; his children are Elizabeth, L. 
E., Alice, W. W., Mary M , now Mrs. Martin ; Clara A., Sadie W., deceased ; Lizzie 
W., deceased ; Caroline K., Minnie M. and Amanda, deceased. Mr. Preston has held 
township and school offices ; in politics is a Republican, and belongs to the Christian 
Church. His mother is now 91 years old, and lives on the farm with him ; his father 
died in 1828. 

LEWIS SCHRADERMAEIER, farmer, Sec. 3; P. 0. Davis ; born in 
Lippe Detmold, Germany, Nov. 5, 1821 ; came to America in 1853 ; brought his family 
with him and went to farming ; settled down on a farm in Rock Grove Township, 
containing 150 acres, but owns now 500 acres, valued at $50 an acre. In 1844, he 
was married to Miss Sophia Pothast, of Germany. Their family is Lewis, Henry, 
Frederick. Herman, Louisa and Amelia. He has held township office, and belongs to 
the P]vaugelical Synod of North America. 

L. W. SCHRADERMAEIER, farmer, Sec. 28 ; P. O. Rock Grove ; bom 
in Germany, March 26, 1846; emigrated to America in 1852, and settled in Rock 
Grove Township, where the subject of this sketch now lives and is engaged in farming ; 
he now owns 70 acres and is farming 231. In 1868, he married Miss Dora Weimeier, 
of Germany. They have a family of two children — Anna S. and Daniel L. His 
family attend the Lutheran Evangelical Church. 

W. B. STIVER, physician and surgeon, Rock Grove Village ; he was born 
in Centre Co., Penn., March 12, 1850, and left for the West in 1872 ; went to Freeport 
and began the study of medicine ; he attended the first course of lectures in Louisville 
Medical College, at Louisville, Ky., in 1874 and 1875; he then returned to Freeport 
and began with Dr. Buckley; then went to Orangeville and took care of Dr. B. H. 
Bradshaw's practice ; afterward, he settled down in Rock Grove and begau practice, 
in 1878; he attended the Rush Medical College, at Chicago, 111., and received his 
diploma, and is now enjoying a good practice. In 1879, he married MissR. E. McNitts. 
of Ohio. 

JOHN S. WALKER, farmer, Sec. 26 ; P. O. Rock Grove. The subject 
of this sketch, a son of Col. George Walker, of Dakota, was born in Clinton Co., Penn.,. 
Sept. 25, 1845 ; at the age of 4 years, came to Stephenson Co., 111., with father and 
family, the trip, made in wagons, occupying some five weeks ; has, since 1849, been a 
resident of this county ; has held school and township offices. Politics, Democratic. 
On New Year's Day, 1867, he was married to Miss Catharine Fisher, daughter of 
Solomon Fisher, of Rock Grove Township ; she was born in Stephenson Co., April 15, 
1844 ; their children are Willie W., Emma C, Stella M. and Charles' C 

WILLIAM WINDECKER, farmer, Sec. 28 ; P. O. Davis ; born in 
Seneca Co., N. Y., Feb. 11, 1848 ; he came West to Stephenson Co. with his father 
and family in 1851; the old family consisted of Israel Darling, "her son;" Susan, 
now Mrs. Dean ; Charles, Hannah, now Mrs. Reed ; J. C. and Mary. William stayed 
with his father, engaged in farming, till 1873. In 1872, he married Miss Mary 
Fosler, of Illinois, and has a family of two — Laura L. and Pearley. In 1863, he 
enlisted in the 26th I. V. I. and served till 1864 ; he is now farming 167 acres. In 
politics he is Republican. 

DAVID ZIMMERMAN, farmer, Sec. 27 ; P. 0. Rock Grove ; born in 
Centre Co., Penn., Aug. 4, 1819 ; came to Stephenson Co., 111., in 1854, and settled 
on Sec. 27, Rock Grove Township, where he now owns 150 acres of land, valued at $50 
an acre. In 1:44, he married Miss Elsie E. Ickes, of Perry Co., Penn., who is a 
daughter of the old revolutionary soldier, " Nicholas Ickes ; " the family consists of 
eight children — Catherine E., now Mrs. J. Musser ; Emma C., Andrew, Albert N., 
Laura J., Codella L., Saloma A. and Lewis E. Mr. Zimmerman has held the offices 



BUCKEYE TOWNSHIP. 741 

of Assessor in 1865, of Supervisor in 1868 on the Republican ticket, and belongs to the 
Presbyterian Church ; in the Sabbath school he has been an earnest worker. 

GEORGE W. ZIMMERMAN, farmer, Sec. 24 ; P. 0. Davis ; born in 
Union Co., Penn., April 8, 1849 ; he came to this county, in 1849, with his father, 
George, and family — Mary A., now Mrs. Kleckner ; Katurah, now Mrs. Adlman ; 
John, deceased in 1870 ; G. W. and Sophia C. George W. came to this his present loca- 
tion in 1850, and now has 207 acres, valued at $50 an acre. In 1873, he married 
Miss Nancy Jane Potter, of Illinois, and has a family of three children — Dora Ann, 
Jesse J., now dead ; and John F. Mr. Zimmerman was School Director for six years, 
and is a Democrat ; his family attend the Lutheran Church, of which Rev. Jacob 
Reidler is Pastor. The church was built in the fall of 1878, at a cost of $1,800 ; has 
a church membership of twenty-two and Sunday school of sixty-six. Mr. Z. is Deacon 
of the church. 

J. H. ZIMMERMAN, farmer. Sec. 24; P. O. Davis; born in Centre Co., 
Penn., Jan. 17, 1S46 ; he came to Stephenson Co. in fall of 1849 with his father, Isaac, 
and the rest of the family, together with brother George and family, and Samuel B. 
Caldwell and family ; his father died in the spring of 1877. J. H. now lives on the 
old estate, and owns 165 acres. On Sept. 15, 1864, he married Miss Margaret Kline, 
who died in the spring of 1877 ; he married again March 13, 1879, to Miss Liddie 
Breon, of Centre Co., Penn ; they have a family of five children — Ida J., now Mrs. 
Breon ; Henry Howard, Amos O., Mary J. and Franklin S. Mr. Zimmerman was 
Collector of Rock Grove Township in 1879 ; in politics, he is a Republican ; his family 
attend the Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church. 



BUCKEYE TOWNSHIP. 

JAMES H. ADDAMS, farmer, Sec. 35 ; P. O. Cedarville ; born in Berks 
Co., Penn., March 16, 1850 ; came to Stephenson Co., in 1850, in company with Mr. 
Latcham ; Samuel Adams his father's family consisted of ten children, of whom John 
H. and James H. are the only ones now here ; James H. started for himself in 1844, 
having cried at an auction sale at 18 years of age. In 1843 he married Miss Livina 
Hinnersheetz, of Penn.; they had ten children, Alvin — born in 1844, and killed at 
Vicksburg; Agnes, born 1845, now at home; Austin, born in 1847, traveling agent ; 
Elizabeth, born in 1849, deceased; Gustius, born 1851, now in Cedarville ; Samuel, 
born in 1853, on the farm; Nathan, born in 1855, deceased ; William, born in 1857, 
deceased ; Charles H., born in 1859, now studying for a teacher at the Normal School ; 
Lizzie, born in 1861, now at home ; John H., born in 1862, at home. Mr. Addams 
farmed in 1844, then went into the grain and coal business, sold out, and came West to 
his present home ; this house is the first brick that was built in the county ; he now 
owns 167 acres; has held both township and school oflices ; is a Republican. 

J. WEBER ADDAMS, stock-farm, Sec. 32; P. 0. Cedarville; born in 
Cedarville, and spent his youth in attending school in the village ; he then went to 
Beloit, preparatory to entering Ann Arbor, where he remained until he entered the 
freshman class, when his health failed and he returned home, and went into the flouring 
mills owned by his father, John H. Addams ; then, in 1871, took a farm of 512 acres, 
which he now has stocked with fine cattle ; he gives attention to some 25 head of 
Jersey thoroughbreds which he introduced here. In 1876, he married Mi*s Laura 
Shoemaker, of Lena, 111.; they have one child, named Sarah. 

J. B. ANGLE, farmer, Sec. 33 ; P. O. Cedarville ; born in Franklin Co., 
Penn., in 1820. Mr. Angle came to Stephenson Co., in 1844; first located on Rich- 
land Creek, and then came here on to Sec. 33, buying his claim of Mr. Wingard ; 
lived in a log cabin, and afterward built his residence; owns 280 acres in Sees. 31. 32 
and 33. In 1843 he married Miss Bell; they have six children — Sarah, Luther. 



742 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

James, deceased ; William, Newton, Nathau. Mr. Angle has been school officer, and 
was here when Mr. Epley kept the Cedarville Post Office. 

SAMUEL and GEORGE W. BARBER, farmers, Sec. 32 ; P. 0. 
Cedarville; were born in Union Co., Penn.; came to Stephenson Co., 111., in 1843; 
John Barber bought this claim of Barton Jones ; the old Barber estate comprises 463 
acres, of which the family holds 273, now on Sees. 31 and 32; old Mrs. Barber now 
lives, enjoying full health and faculties, at the advanced age of 81 ; the original family 
was, Mary B., born May 21, 1822 ; Samuel B., born Dec. 29, 1824 ; Sarah F., Feb. 
27, 1828, now Mrs. Jackson ; Thomas, born Jan. 6, 1831 ; George W., March 5, 1835 ; 
W. Henry, born June 17, 1839, died in 1878 ; Ellen S., born Feb. 28, 1840. On 
coming here they lived in a log cabin, and, in 1854, built the residence in which they 
now live ; the family circle now being made of two brothers, three sisters, and their 
mother. Samuel and George have now established a fine stock-farm, and are breeding 
thoroughbred Jerseys, with which they have been very successful, and are now looking 
to the introduction of these fine animals into all the farms. The boys have belonged to 
the M. E. Church, and are of Republican principles. 

THOMAS BARBER, farmer, Sec. 31 ; P. 0. Cedarville ; came out with 
the rest of the family in 1843 ; there were about fifty-four people in this party, the 
Barber family having three of the wagons; his father, John Barbef, drove one wagon, 
brother Samuel one and a hired man the other. They landed in Rock Grove Township, 
and moved down to Sec. 31 ; Thomas has lived here since. In 1854, Oct. 4, he married 
Miss Patton ; they have a family of four children — Samuel, George, Nellie and Sallie. 
Mr. Barber now farms most of the Barber estate, while his brothers carry on the stock- 
farm. He is Republican. 

ANDREW J. BATES, Cedarville; born in Green Co., Ohio, Jan. 1, 
1838; came to Stephenson Co. in 1845, with his father's family, to Buckeye Center; 
in 1851, went to learn the carpenter trade of Washington Epley, near Davis, in Rock 
Run Township ; he went West with Mr. Epley, but cameback and worked at his trade till 
September, 1861, when he enlisted in the 46th I. V. I., Co. A. ; in the battle of Shiloh 
had two fingers carried away ; was discharged, in 1862, July 9 ; re-enlisted in 1863, and at 
Jackson, Miss., was struck by a spent ball ; came home, and was married, in 1867, to 
Miss Anna DeLong ; after staying in Davis five years, he moved to his present home in 
Cedarville. Mr. Bates is a Democrat. They had one child — Levi Gilbert, deceased. 

JOHN F. BENDER, farmer, Sec. 26 ; P. 0. Cedarville ; born in Baden, 
Germany, March 14, 1822; came to United States in 1847 ; went to work in Buffalo, 
N. Y., and, in 1855, came to Stephenson Co. ; he then bought this place in 1855, and 
in 1856 moved on to it; the old log house which he built at that time is now incorpo- 
rated with the large frame one that he lives in at present ; he owns now a farm of 102 
acres. In 1847, he married Miss Frederica Rude, and has a family of eight children — 
Charles F., Anna E.. in Sterling; Mary, now Mrs. Wofesberger; John, William, Aaron, 
Ida and Edward. Mr. Bender is a Democrat. 

JOHN BOALS, farmer, Sec. 16; P. 0. Fountain Creek; born in Donegal 
Co., Ireland, 1817; April 16, 1842, arrived in America; he was 25 years old on leaving 
New York ; there were two sisters with him — Mary, now deceased, and Catherine, now 
Mrs. Jenkins ; their passage over the lake resulted very nearly in a shipwreck ; from 
Chicago, they came to Freeport, and went out to stay at John Wilson's, on Sec. 28 ; 
took an 80 on Sec. 30, and, when his father came West, entered it in 1843, and an 
additional 160 acres in 1844; the old family consisted of Jane, Sarah, now deceased; 
Nancy, Latitia and Thomas. In 1853, married Miss Beattie and located on the farm 
where they live now; owns 170 acres in Sees. 16 and 21. Mr. Boals' family consists 
of Agnes, deceased ; Margaret, deceased ; Robert, deceased; Josephine, deceased ; M. 
Ida, now Mrs. Jaeger ; Sarah, Elizabeth, William, Samuel, Latitia, Thomas and James, 
deceased. He is a Democrat, and belongs to the Presbyterian Church. 

REUBEN BOBB, farmer, Sec. 3; P. 0. Orangeville ; born in Union Co., 
Penn., Aug. 25, 1841 ; came West with his father's family in 1845; went to Orange- 



BUCKEYE TOWNSHIP. 743 

ville first, then here on to the homestead in 1846 ; now owns 93 acres ; was engaged at 
farming till 1864, when he enlisted in the 32d I. V. I. ; he was taken prisoner at 
Tunnel Hill, and nearly starved to death in Florence, S. C, and saw Gov. Dick 
Oglesby at Camp Butler reprove the commissary for issuing bones for the boys' rations ; 
came home, and in Sept. 24, 1865, married Miss Amanda Reager, of Pennsylvania; his 
children are — Melly E., Ida M. and Boyd W. ; has held school office ; belongs to the 
M. E. Church. 

FREDERICK BOLENDER, farmer, Sec. 14; P. 0. Buena Vista; 
born in Union Co., Penn., Dec. 29, 1814; came to Stephenson Co. in company with 
Mr. Haas and Mr. Templeton ; stayed in Rock Grove till June 13. and last of July 
entered his claim, which he had purchased of Jacob Brown, consisting of 240 acres; 
now, however, increased to 300 acres; he built his present residence in 1850. Has 
been married three times ; in 1836, to Miss Ritzman, of Pennsylvania, who died in 1852 ; 
in 1853, to Miss Caroline Edwards, of Pennsylvania, who died in 1878; in November, 
1879, to Miss Diana Bogar, of Union Co., Penn. ; they have six children — Harriet E., 
now Mrs. Fry ; George. Hannah, now Mrs. Kimball ; Jane, now Mrs. Yagle ; Ada, 
now Mrs. Etzler, and Wilson, now dead. Mr. Bolender has held most of the township 
offices ; belongs to the Reform Church ; is a Democrat. 

JOHN BRUCE, farmer, Sec. 24; P. O. Cedarville ; born in 1855, in New Jer- 
sey ; came West when 3 years old, and with his father lived on Robert Schofield's place ; 
then moved to Mr. Wilson's, on Sec. 21 ; they lived with Mr. Hixon and then with 
Adrian Lucas; this was in 1858, and they have stayed ever since, and with his father 
own this property. He married Miss Lucas in December, 1879 ; she was born in Penn- 
sylvania ; his father, William Bruce, was married in 1863 ; now visiting his old home in 
Pennsylvania. 

BOYD H. BRUNDAGE, farmer, Sec. 13; P. 0. Buckeye Center; came 
to the county in 1866, and settled in Buena Vista with his father, well known as Dr. 
Brundage ; he left home, and went to farming at Milledgeville ; but returned home, and 
then c^me here and settled on Sees. 12 and 13, where he now has a 40-acre farm. On 
Feb. 4, 1879, he married Miss Frederick. He is a Republican, and is one of a family 
of seven children, only two being at home — Albert and Delia. 

DR. CHARLES BRUNDAGE, b 3 rn in Luzerne Co., Penn., April 10, 
1825 ; studied medicine in Castleton, Vt. ; graduated in 1847 ; practiced in his native 
county, then in Union, and finally came West to Stephenson Co., and established him- 
self in Buena Vista, 1866, where he remained till 1880 ; in the spring, he moved on 
to his farm, on Sec. 11, of 80 acres. In 1851, married Miss Andrews, of Pennsyl- 
vania, and has a family of seven children — F. M., a physician, in Luzerne Co., Penn. ; 
Boyd H., Duke A.. Moses S., Dora E., now Mrs. Radler ; Delia and Albert at home. 
Republican in politics. 

J. B. CLINGJIAX, Cedarville; born in Pennsylvania, May 12, 1803; in 
his youth he was disabled by hip disease, and his future life was one in which scholarly 
acquirements enabled him to secure a competency ; in 1804, his father's family moved 
to Scioto Co., Ohio ; at the age of 18 he went into the Recorder's office, but on account 
of his health, in 1825, he was Tax Collector of Scioto Co., and then engaged in real estate 
speculation, where he made money, and came into Illinois, a healthy climate; in 1836, 
entered land in La Salle Co., and in 1840 came to Stepheuson Co. and settled on Sec. 
25, Buckeye Township ; owns 120 acres and property in Cedarville. Mr. Clingman 
first married in 1828, to Miss Sarah P. Turner, of Ohio ; had a family of nine; his 
wife was killed by the falling of an old shed April 22, 1863 ; he married again on June 
14, 1866, Miss Sarah Boyer, and had two children ; his last wife died May 28, 1877. 
His sons served in the army, and at one time there were fourteen by the name of 
Clingman enlisted. J. B. is a Republican, and belongs to the M. E. Church. 

MRS. JOSIAH CLINCH JIAN, Cedarville ; came to the State of Illinois, 
in 18 i5, with her husband and family ; settled first at Peoria, Putnam Co., where they 
stayed till 1836, then moved into La Salle Co., and from there to this county in 1837 • 

GG 



744 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

their first stopping-place was Troy Grove ; afterward, Mr. Clingman bought a farm of 
320 acres of Mr. Demmick, where he lived until the year of his death, March 30, 1865 ; 
his widow moved into the village of Cedarville, where, together with her daughter, she 
now keeps house. Nov. 25, 1830, Josiah Clingman married Miss Maria Simpson, in 
Scioto Co., Ohio, trie ceremony performed by the Rev. Asa Bolinger; their family 
numbered ten children — George W., deceased ; Mary, now Mrs. M. G. Leitts ; Chester, 
deceased ; Ann Eliza, living with her mother ; Thomas S., was wounded at Shiloh, and 
died two weeks after getting home ; Jason, living north of Dakota ; William M., now 
lives on the homestead farm ; Edwin, deceased ; Sophia, now Mrs. L. Angle ; Ethel 
B., lives on Thomas Bell's farm. Josiah's brother, John B. Clingman, lives in Cedar- 
-ville also. The widow of Josiah, the subject of this sketch, was born in Scioto Co., 
Ohio, November, 1809, and is at present writing in her 71st year. 

JACOB F. DOERFLOJGER. tailor, Cedarville ; born in Baden, Ger- 
many, October, 1819 ; iame to America in 1853, landed in New York, and went to 
Buffalo, then came here, and is engaged at his trade, which he learned in the Old 
Country ; in summer time, gives his attention to raising tobacco ; owns house and lots 
on which he lives. In 1856, married Miss Anna Rosche, of Switzerland ; has a family 
of four children — Anna, now Mrs. Boldenberg ; Louisa, now Mrs. Workinger ; Amelia, 
now Mrs. Ilgen ; and one boy named Christian. 

REV. GEORUE J. DOMEYER, farmer, Sec. 13 ; P. 0. Buckeye 

Centre; born in Centre Co., Penn., June 17, 1814; he was sent out by the Lutheran 
Church, in 1850, to Stephenson Co., as missionary ; he was educated for the ministry in 
Pennsylvania College, going through a theological and literary course, taking charge of 
his first mission, in 1842, in Center Co.; when coming West, he experienced the many 
difficulties tommon to pioneer travel, arriving, May 8, some three miles north of Lena ; 
preached his first sermon May 12, 1850, in the old schoolhouse where Fair's Church 
now stands; organized a Sabbath school here also. June 2, same year; at this time the 
total membership of the Lutheran Church was 181, in Stephenson Co. ; the Rev. 
George J. Donmeyer is now giving his attention to horticulture ; owns 85 acres. His 
family consists of Melinda, now Mrs. Cameron; Addison G., who during the war 
belonged to Co. H, now at home ; Mary; Lizzie, deceased ; during life a talented musician ; 
George, Cyrus, Luther, Laura, deceased, and Jacob U. Republican in politics; Lutheran 
in religion. 

JOHN EPL.EY, farmer, Sec. 27; P. O. Cedarville; born in Berks Co., 
Penn., Aug. 14, 1825; was raised in Center Co. on a farm ; came to Stephenson Co. in 
1841, June 6; went into the Cedar Creek flouring-mills, which then belonged to his 
brother Conrad, where he stayed till November of 1851, and on account of poor health, 
in spring of 1852, went to California; came back in 1860, and lived with wife's father, 
on Sec. 24, till 1865, when he bought his present home on Sec. 27. consisting of 87 
acres. In 1847, he married Miss Anna Brown, of Pennsylvania, and had a family of 
five — Kate, now Mrs. Jackson ; Alice, Cora, Anna L. and John. He marriid a second 
time to Mrs. Deppen, formerly Miss Snyder, her child being named Mabel Deppen. 
Mr. Epley served as Justice of the Peace in 1850 and 1861 ; belongs to the Evangelical 
Church of Cedarville. He has three brothers — Benjamin, living at Davis, in this 
county ; James, now in Kansas ; Adam, now in this township on Sec. 23. 

SAMLUEIi ERMOLD, farmer, Sec. 13; P. O. Buckeye Center; born in 
Center Co., Penn., January, 1827; he came here to Stephenson Co. in 1840; in the 
spring of 1840, his father, George Ermold, bought land in the old Parriott claim, and 
then of Kretzer, and some of Folgate, having about 440 acres, in 1843 ; the old family 
were Hannah, deceased ; Samuel, subject of this sketch ; Solomon, John G. and Rueben r 
deceased ; father died in the fall of 1844, and mother in the spring of 1857 ; Samuel 
was 13 years old when they came to the county, and stayed with his father until begin- 
ning for himself. In 1856, he married Miss Fager, and, in 1858, now owns a large 1 
farm on different adjoining sections, of 235 acres, valued at $50 an acre ; the farm has 
been greatly improved ; in 1858, he built the residence and large barn the following 



BUCKEYE TOWNSHIP. 745 

year; his family consists of two children — Oscar J. and Florentine M. Mr. Ermold 
has been Road Commissioner; Collector in 1862, and also School Trustee. 

JACOB FOLGATE, farmer, Sec. 13; P. O. Buckeye Center ; 
born in 1840, in Center Co., Penn. ; when a year old, came to Stephenson Co. with his 
parents ; owns 100 acres of land ; was Postmaster from 1874 to 1876 ; he opened a store 
in 1874; sold out this business in 1876. He married Miss DeLong, in 1865; they 
have five children — Margaret C, Carrie, Mary A., Laura L. and Levi D. Democrat 
in politics ; attends Evangelical Church. 

JAMES FOLGATE, farmer, Sec. 17 ; P. 0. Fountain Creek ; born June 
22, 1830 ; came to Stephenson Co., in 1841, with mother, father and family often 
children, seven boys and three girls ; settled at Buckeye Center, and in 1851 located on 
Sec. 8, then to Brush Creek, Sec. 7 ; bought a farm of 185 acres, and in 1875, built 
a fine brick dwelling, costing $2,000. In 1851, he married Miss Matten. and now 
has four children — Jonathan, Isaac, Uriah and William. Mr. Folgate is a Democrat ; 
he is now giving some attentiou to Chester White and Berkshire. 

JOHN FOX, miller, Cedarville; born in York Co., Penn., in 1836, and began 
milling in 1S56. at 20 years of age, and while at his vocation has been working for 
Keystone Creek Mill ; then for John Sloat ; on Kritz Creek for Liphart & Rudy ; in 
1859, he went to the old stand again, and then to a mill on Canoe Run, owned by 
George Crumlinger, and in 1862, left for the West, but returned to Pennsylvania, and 
at different times worked, for these same men ; he visited Cedarville first in 1871, and 
has now run the Cedar Creek Mills four years. In 1865, married Amanda Liphart; 
has a family of six children — James, William, Elizabeth S., John D., Charles and 
Adeline. Mr. Fox belonged to the 195th Penn. V. I. 

JOHN T. GINGRICH, farmer. Sec. 6 ; P. O. Orangeville ; born in 
Lebanon Co., June 13, 1823; came to Stephenson Co., in 1846; bought a claim of 
George Charter, entered it in the same year; owns 172 acres. In 1852, Sept. 28, he 
married Miss W. Viola Wick, of Pennsylvania, and in 1858, July 1, to Miss Livinia 
C. Lattig, of Pennsylvania ; has a family of two, John B., born Sept. 16, 1860, and 
Anna M., born Sept. 25, 1862. Mr. Gingrich is fond of preserving the records of the 
farm ; has a Bible over 100 years of age ; he has held township and school offices ; 
attends the Reform Church ; Republican in politics. 

DANIEL GRIM, farmer, Sec. 1 ; P. O. Orangeville ; born in Center Co., 
Penn., in 1821 ; came to Stephenson Co., in 1845, in company with Benjamin Rousch ; 
worked in the harve-t fields of Ohio, and for Joshua Fowler, near Lena, in Waddams 
Township ; in 1845, Mr. Grim learned blacksmithing, in Mifflin Co., and worked on the 
White Hall Mills, for Philip Reitzell ; he went back to Pennsylvania in 1849, aud 
married Miss Amelia Rousch ; came back to Buena Vista, stayed till coming on to 
this farm of 143 acres ; their children are Amanda, now Mrs. Smith; Mary A., now 
Mrs. Hockman ; Salina, now Mrs. Kramer ; Sirus, Rosette, now Mrs. Shauk ; Daniel, 
and John. Mr. Grim is a Republican in politic?, and a Lutheran in religion. 

WILLIAM D. HARTMAN, farmer, Sec. 11 ; P. O. Orangeville ; born 
in Union Co., Penn., Oct. 22, 1836 ; came to Stephenson Co., in 1857 ; father's family 
were Magdalena, deceased ; Mary A., now Mrs. Robendoll; Elizabeth, now Mrs. Young; 
Franklin, and Bebecca, now Mrs. Beair ; he owns 170 acre>. In 1869, March 7, 
married Miss Caroline Epley ; their children are Madrona S., deceased; Frank W. 
Perry O., Beatta E., William W., Anna C. William D.'s brother Franklin was shot 
through the leg at Ft. Donelson, and bled to death; Republican in politics. 

GEORGE W. HARTSOITGH, farmer, Sec. 30 ; P. O. Cedarville ; born 
in Seneca Co., N. Y., in 1821 ; when a young man, he clerked and taught school in 
Union Co., Penn. ; taught the Deisbach School four years, from 1840 to 1844 ; he spent 
one ye.tr in New York before coming West; arrived in Stephenson Co. in 1845; how- 
ever, before leaving Pennsylvania he married Miss Scheckler, and on locating selected 
Rock Grove ; his wife has three brothers in the county — Levi, who lives in Rock Grove ; 
Peter, who lives in Orangeville, is a gunsmith, and Benjamin, who lives in Waddams. 



746 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Mr. Hartsough then went to teaching school, and continued through 1846-48 ; then 
seeing a chance bought a woolen-mill near Oneco, which he ran for six years ; but in 
1856 sold out the concern to Samuel Runkle, then going into the mercantile business; 
he also was Postmaster till 1860 ; disposed of these interests. Went to recruiting Co. G, 
93d I. V. I, and served a few months in this company as First Lieutenant ; but, his health 
failing, was compelled to return home ; then going into a woolen-mill in La Fayette Co., 
Wis., which he ran until he moved on to this farm, Sec. 30, in 1869. In public life, he 
has served as Commissioner, Justice of the Peace, Coroner, and in school offices. As 
Justice he was elected Nov. 23, 1852 ; he held this office for twenty-one years ; his 
papers bear the signatures of William Preston, County Clerk, and Hon. A. C. French, 
Governor of the State of Illinois. Among the marriages he made, the first was Mr. 
Davidson to Miss Van Winkle, and Solomon Kleckner to Eliza Ransom ; he is now 
serving the third term as Road Commissioner ; his farm consists of 40 acres, where he 
now lives. His politics are Democratic; he has had a family of four children — Sarah, 
now Mrs. Hurlburt ; Mary, now Mrs. Clingman ; Addie, now Mrs. Briggs ; Susan, now 
Mrs. Humphrey. 

JOHN HARTZELL, farmer, Sec. 6 ; P. 0. Orangeville ; born in Nor- 
thampton Co., Penn., May 27, 1801 ; was-eugaged in farming during his life in Penn- 
sylvania ; after his father's death he cared for the family, and came to Stephenson Co. 
April 10, 1855. On July 4, 1824, he married Miss Maria Andrews, who died on 
March 30, 1874, leaving a family of five — John, Henry, Mary E., now Mrs. Sechler ; 
Sarah A., now Mrs. Shelter ; Hannah S., now Mrs. Barnd. In 1856, Mr. Hartzell 
settled on Sec. 6, and owns 262 acres, valued at $50 an acre. He belongs to the 
Reform Church of Orangeville. 

WILLIAM HERMAN, Cedarville; born in Adams Co., Penn.. March 
23, 1800 ; moved to Lycoming Co., and stayed till 1828, when he moved to Tioga C •., 
and in 1846 came West to Stephenson Co., and located in Rock Run; then he moved 
to Florence Township in 1877 ; sold out and came to Cedarville, and settled on their 
present home. In 1828, he married Miss Stieffer ; their family consisted of five children 
— John, Elizabeth, Wesley, William, Judson M. 

JOHN HESER, blacksmith, Sec. 13; P. O. Buena Vista ; born in Bavaria, 
Germany. April 11, 1819 ; he learned his trade in his native country, and in 1848 came 
to America ; stopped in New Jersey ; was some time on Long Islaud ; the first place he 
lived in Stephenson Co. was Silver Creek Township ; he settled here in 1857 ; built his 
shop in 1863, and his present dwelling in 1865. Mr. Heser has held school offices, 
and belongs to the Lutheran Church. Besides his house and shop, he owns 23 acres, 
valued at $50 an acre. His family consists of two children — John P. and Mary. 

SOLOMON HIXSON, cooper, Cedarville ; born in Uniou Co., Penn., Nov. 
18, 1824 ; learned his trade at an early age, and worked with his father until his death, 
in 1845; he supported the family then, and in 1853 married Miss Margaret Snyder, 
and again in 1866 to Miss Mary Snyder; his family consisted of six children — Luther, 
Willie, Eddie, Maggie, Charles, Emma. Mr. Hixson's mother died in 1876, aged 83 
years. He was engaged from 1855 to 1867 in making barrels for the Cedar Creek 
Mills ; now farms some, and owns the property where he lives. He b.longs to the 
Evangelical Church of Cedarville. 

WILLIAM HOFF, merchant, Buena Vista; bom in Union Co., Penn., 
April 19, 1833. In 1853, he married Miss Rachel Cline, of Pennsylvania, and in 1856 
came West to Stephenson Co., going to Buena Vista in 1870 ; established a mercantile 
trade, which carried between $6,000 and $7,000 worth of stock. Mr. Hoff has now 
retired from business; he now owns a house and nine lots in the village, having sold his 
business March 18, 1880, to J. G. Ermold. William Hoff held the office of Postmaster 
from 1877 to May, 1880, and his family are John, William H., Charles M., Bertha 
A. and Lewis J. (deceased). Democrat in politics; Lutheran in religion. 

MILTON B. HUMPHREY, farmer, Sec. 20; P. O. Buckeye Center; 
was born in Stephenson Co., and is now carrying on the old estate, which he has man- 



BUCKEYE TOWNSHIP. 747 

aged since 1877 ; it is situated on Sec. 20, consisting of 160 acres, valued at $50 an 
acre; he now has it stocked, and is giving his attention to pork. In December, 1875, 
he married Miss Hartzough, and had one child named Francis. Mr. Humphrey has 
held township and school offices, being Collector in 1875-76. His two brothers, John 
H. and Charles, enlisted in the 93d I. V. I ; his brother Edward joined the Regulars, 
12th Regiment; served his time out, and is now in Kansas. 

THOMAS HUTCHINSON, farmer, Sec. 33 ; P. 0. Cedarville ; born in 
Union Co., Penn., Sept. 27, 1798; he was engaged in the woolen-factory with his 
brother, who died in January, 1880 ; manufactured in Union Co., then Lycomiug Co., 
and then came West; he settled, first, near Cedarville, then bought this claim of John 
Rockey — then about 445 acres — of which he now holds 240, on Sec. 33 ; building a 
log cabin, went to farming, and at times worked at the factory ; and one season he spent 
in Beloit, manufacturing woolen cloths. Mr. Hutchinson, in 1824, married Miss 
Wallace, and for fifty-four years they lived together without a cloud to darken their hap- 
piness ; on June 11, 1878, she passeda way ; their family is M. Jane, now at home; 
Wallace, Stephenson Co. Treasurer ; Margaret, deceased ; Samuel, now on the adjoin- 
ing faini; Sarah, now Mrs. Miller; Mary, now Mrs. Rutherford; Martha, living at 
home ; Robert, at home ; Isabella, in the office with her brother Wallace in Freeport ; 
Samuel enlisted in the 146th I. V. I., and served one year on provost duty in the State 
of Illinois. 

D. G. IL<(jrEN, Cedarville ; born in Clinton Co., Penn., in 1840 ; he spent his 
youth in Cedarville, where his father, in co-operation with others, succeeded in laying 
out the village, and as it stands, occupies George Iglen's Addition ; the pioneer family 
came to the West directed solely by map and compass, stopped first in Dakota, and 
then, in 1849, came here ; the ground donated for public buildings was donated by Mr. 
Ilgen's family, the founder of the village ; George Ilgen died in 1864, and, in 1870, 
the mother was followed to the grave by her twelve children. D. G. Ilgen finished his 
education in Springfield, 111., and, in 1862, enlisted in the 93d I. V. I., Co. G, and 
was mustered out at Louisville, Ky., in June, 1865 ; during the service, he was in 
every rebel State, Texas and Florida ; on arriving home, went to teaching school, and 
after nine terms at this, went into the employ of L. H. Everts & Co., publishers, and, 
in their interests, traveled through Ohio, Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania, New 
Jersey, and in 1877 came to Cedarville, became the successor of James Benson, now 
carrying on an extensive and growing trade in general mercandise ; this mercantile 
enterprise was started and established by Mr. Benson in 1850, being now the oldest in 
the village, and Mr. Ilgen is now doing a good business in Cedarville and surrounding 
country. On Dec. 28, 1875, he married Miss Benson, of Cedarville ; their son James 
was born on Oct. 9, 1877. 

JOSEPH F. JACKSON, proprietor and operator of the Cedar Creek 
Woolen Factory, about two and a half miles northeast of Cedarville, on Sec. 32 ; the 
mill was built in 1856, and run as a flaxseed oil-mill, J. F. Jackson, Richard Glenan 
and John H. Addams, proprietors ; in 1859, the woolen-factory was established by 
Joseph F. Jackson, and has been run by him since ; in the different cloths manufactured, 
there are 18,000 pounds of wool used per annum ; the building is 35x40 feet, three stories 
high, was formerly run by an over-shot waterwheel, but, in 1872, a Lefel turbine was 
placed in the mill of 20-in. diameter ; near the mill stand the houses occupied by the 
families who gain a subsistence by working there. Mr. Jackson was born in Clinton 
Co., Penn., Jan. 1, 1821 ; learned the tanning trade, and worked at it a number of 
years ; on coming West, he taught school, then went to farming. In 1847, married 
Miss Sarah Barber, and they have seven children — Sarah E., now Mrs. Dienur ; Emily, 
John, Clara, Effie, William and Mary. Mr. Jackson has held the office of Supervisor, 
and also school offices ; in politics, a Republican. 

JACOB JONES, miller, Cedarville; born in Maryland, July 18, 1822 ; he 
was engaged with his father in farming and distilling till 1840, when they sold out and 
came West, and settled in Ogle Co., 111., where his father died at the age of 93 ; his 
mother, now 78, still lives, hale and hearty. Mr. Jones engaged in milling on coming 



748 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

West, anil has been employed in quite a number of mills in this and surrounding 
■counties ; is now resting, expecting to go to work soon. On Dec. 24, 1846, he married 
Miss Anna R. Mitten, of Maryland ; their family is Margaret M., Mary, George, 
Alice, Ida, Clara, L,aura, Frank and Samuel. Mr. Jones is a Democrat ; his wife 
belongs to the Lutheran Church. 

ROBERT JONES, farmer, Sec. 24 ; P. 0. Buckeye Center ; born in Kent 
Co., England. Feb. 16, 1799 ; he left in the spring of 1831 for New York ; lived in 
Utica for one year, aud about 1834, taking the Western fever, struck out for Illinois, 
where he met Levi Lucas, and came to Stephenson Co., in 1835, Dec. 24 ; when here, 
took claims of some 500 acres each ; together built a cabin, which was finished in 1836 or 
1837 ; he lived here but one year ; in 1845 put up part of his present house, and finished 
it in 1860 ; owns 154 acres of land, valued at $50. Mr. Jones married Miss Horlacher, 
Aug. 9, 1838, who died in 1859 ; in 1867, married again, a Miss Burgess; by the first 
marriage had seveu children — Daniel W., twin brother to Thomas B.; David, Sarah, 
deceased; Elizabeth, now Mrs. Lied; Anna M., now Mrs. Fry; Robert H. Mr. Jones 
is a Republican, and now gives attention to cultivating grapes and bee keeping. 

THOMAS B. JONES, farmer, Sec. 24; P. O. Buckeye Center; born 
Feb. 3, 1841, in Stephenson Co.; his father came to this county in 1835, Dec. 24; he 
owns 90 acres of land. Enlisted in 1861 in Co. B, 46th I. V. I.; served to the end of 
the war; he was promoted to Corporal ,then 2d Lieutenant, and mustered out 1st Lieu- 
tenant ; was wounded at the battle of Shiloh ; was Township Collector during 1874 and 
1875 ; is Justice of the Peace; is Trustee and Steward of the M. E. Church at Cedar - 
ville. Married Susan D. Snyder, in 1868 ; they have one child, Ralph D., born May 
28, 1874; Republican in politics; attends M. E. Church. 

DANIEL KECK, farmer, Sec. 9 ; P. 0. Fountain Creek ; born in Lehigh 
Co., Penn., in 1809, and his wife in 1816 ; he came out for health in 1851, to Stephen- 
son Co. ; while in Pennsylvania followed mercantile business; before coming West, 
had sent money to a friend, who bought 80 acres for him on Sec. 9, where he has since 
lived. In 1835, he married Miss Sager, and their family are Henry S., who belonged 
to Co. A, 46th I. V. I., Joseph S., Mary N., Amelia N. (now Mrs. Longenstein ), 
Ellen L. and Hiram F. Mr. Keck belongs to the Evangelical Church, and was a class 
leader thirty years. 

DANIEL KOSTENBADER, farmer and carpenter, Cedarville ; a 
native of Pennsylvania ; came here in 1847 ; landed in Savannah, and started with his 
brother Aaron for David Neidigh's farm, where their brother Andrew was working ; 
when they arrived at their destination, they had trouble to find work. In 1848, he 
and Aaron built a shop, and Aaron married and moved into it; one-half was used as a 
carpenter shop; in 1855, went back East, and with his sister, commenced keeping house ; 
in 1857, he sold out that property and since 1860 has lived in this house; Daniel is 
single, and in 1861 enlisted in the 46th I. V. I., Co. K. ; mustered out in 1862. The 
old family was Joseph, in Pennsylvania ; Henry and Betsy also ; Aaron is on the 
farm; Andrew is in Kansas; Louisanna, now a widow; Margaret, keeping house for 
Daniel ; John, now deceased ; Moses and Jake, in Pennsylvania ; Samuel Soloman, 
over in Richland ; Elias, in Iowa ; Elias and Soloman were in the 92d I. V. I., and 
through the war; Daniel is a Republican. 

WILLIAM H. KRYDER, farmer, Sec. 32 ; P. 0. Cedarville ; born in 
Pennsylvania Valley, Center Co., Penn., 1835; came West with a party of about seven- 
teen persons ; it took over three weeks to make the trip ; on the way, his life was saved 
by Hannah Meese, who caught him as he was about to fall into the river; they came by 
boat to Savaunah, and with four teams ; from there up to where Neidigh lived, in an 
old cabin ; they arrived in the county in 1842, May 18, soon built a cabin in Lan- 
caster Tuwnship, where they lived until moving over to the factory, where he stayed 
from 1862 to 1864; he then moved to Cedarville, and enlisted Sept., 3, 1864, 
in the 146th I. V. I., Co. E, and escorted President Lincoln's body to the grave; he 
came back to Cedarville in July 25, 18 5. In 1859, he married Miss Williams, and 
in 1869 moved on to the farm on Sec. 32 ; owns 171 acres, belonging at one time to 



BUCKEYE TOWNSHIP. 749 

the old Dr. Van Valzee claim. Mr. Kryder has a family of seven children — Mary J., 
now Mrs. Grayham ; Ida B., deceased ; George W., J. Frank, Hiram D., deceased ; 
Eva M. and Cyrus. 

EDWIN LIED, farmer, Sec. 24; P. 0. Buckeye Centre; born in 
1841 in Lancaster Co., Penn. ; in 1854, came to Stephenson Co. ; owns 160 acres or 
land. Enlisted in 1861 iu Co. E, llthl.V. I.; was mustered out June. 1865 ; was taken 
prisoner at Florence, Ga., in 1864; was released March 3, 1865. Has held township 
and school offices. Married Miss Jones Sept. 21, 1865; they have seven children — 
Harry R., Regina, John, Mary L., Lizzie E., Edwin M. and Robert R. He owns 80 
acres of land. Republican in politics ; Lutheran in religion. 

WILLIAM LIED, merchant and Postmaster, Buckeye Center; bom in 
Lancaster Co., Penn., Dec. 22, 1838; commenced keeping store with Jacob Folgate, 
but bought him out in 1878, and has sole possession of the business, which is increasing ; 
he owns the store and a fine dwelling-house next, besides the land on which they are 
built. In 1858. Feb. 12, married Miss Melinda Folgate. Belongs to the Lutheran 
Church ; Republican in politics. 

WILLIAM McROES, farmer, Sec. 1; P. O. Orangeville; born in Nor- 
thampton Co., Penn , 1815; came to Stephenson Co. in 1849, with Charles Woodring's, 
Thomas and Jacob Bumis' and Mr. Applebauch's families ; stayed on John Miller's 
farm that winter ; in spring, moved to prairie north of Piles' Grove ; then moved here 
on to his present home; he owns 160 acres, the southwest quarter of Sec. 1. In 
1839, married Miss Woodring, who died in 1868. In 1871, he was married to Miss 
Lattig, of Pennsylvania ; has had thirteen children, but there are only two at home — 
Eben and George; Oliver belonged to the 92d I. V. L, Co. G. Mr. McHoeshas been 
Township Commissioner and Justice of the Peace. Lutheran in religion. 

WILLIAM K. MOCK, confectioner, Cedarville ; born in York Co., 
Penn., Aug. 15, 1811 ; he moved to Lebanon Co. in 1818, and was engaged in mer- 
cantile business until coming West; in 1852, he went to Peru, La Salle Co., and then 
moved to Cedarville, where he kept the Cedarville House, but sold out and went into 
confectionery in 1854, and has been in it since ; he owns a farm in Iowa, and also town 
property. In 1847, he married Miss Catherine Shull ; they have one son, VanBuren, 
a carriage-painter. Mr. Mock is a Republican, and belongs to the Lutheran Church 
since 1827. 

MICHAEL MUNHART, farmer, Sec. 10; P. O. Buena Vista; born in 
Germany, May 5, 1815; emigrated to America June 20, 1840; stopped in Lancaster 
Co. three years; in Richland Co. two years, and came to Stephenson Co. in September, 
1845; owns 40 acres of land. In 1851, he married Miss Elizabeth Addam, of Penn- 
sylvania, Union Co. He and his wife have belonged to the Lutheran Church since 
childhoad. 

DANIEL MUSSER, farmer, Sec. 2; P. O. Orangeville; born Oct. 26 
1836, in Centre Co., Penn. ; came to Stephenson Co. in 1856, in company with his 
brothers; settled here, where his mother kept house for him till he was married in 1864 
to Miss Rebecca Dreiblebis, of Pennsylvania; their children are William L., Mary E., 
Carrie M. and Burchard C. Mr. Musser owns 180 acres, and has been Supervisor of 
Buckeye since 1874 ; his brother, John, was elected Captain of Co. A, 46th I. V. I. ; was 
wounded at Shiloh, and died in the hospital at Quincy ; was buried in the cemetery at 
Orangeville. 

MRS. MANLY PARRIOTT, widow, Sec. 13; P. O. Buena Vista; 
born in 1827, and married Manly Parriott in June, 1849 ; then moved to the old home- 
stead in a log house, until 1860; when they built the one in which George now lives, 
she has two other children — Deborah, now Mrs. Clingman, and William, now tending the 
farm, which she owns, 250 acres. Her husband has been dead ten years, having died 
March 28, 1870, and his mother, Nov. 12, 1849. Both belonged to the M. E. Church 
of Orangeville. Mrs. Manly Parriott's maiden name was Betsey J. Carroll. 



750 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

JACOB PIFER, carpenter and farmer, Cedarville ; born in Lebanon, Leba" 
non Co., Penn., September, 1826 ; he learned his trade of William Layme when 18 years 
old, and May 3, 1862, came to Stephenson Co., and lived in Samuel Rosenberger's 
house in Cedarville; and in 1868, having bought this place, built a house on it, still 
working at his trade. In 1852, married Miss Rosenberger, and has a family of four 
boys — W. Latten, Cyrus A. and Samuel L., all carpenters now ; Edward L., now work- 
ing at painting. Mr. Pifer belongs to the German Reform Church at Cedarville, of 
which he is an Elder, now under Rev. F. Stump, of the Orangeville Circuit. 

JOHN POLLOCK, farmer, Sec. 5 ; P. 0. Orangeville ; born in Scioto Co. 
Ohio; on April 8, 1844, he came to Stephenson Co., having lost his wife just before 
coming out ; settled on Sec. 5, and bought 170 acres; used to be the old Fey claim ; 
built part of the dwelling he now lives in, in 1848, and finished it in 1865. In 1847, he 
married Miss Morton, of New York, and has a family of eight children — Quincy, killed 
at Pittsburg Landing; Sarah J., now Mrs. Rockey ; Anne E., David, Mary, John, 
Emma (deceased) and Jennie. Mr. Pollock has held school offices. Politics, Demo- 
crat. Mrs. Pollock belongs to the M. E. Church of Pleasant Hill. 

THOMAS POLLOCK, farmer, Sec. 5 ; P. 0. Orangeville ; born in Scioto 
Co., Ohio, May 6, 1815 ; he first visited this county in 1840, afterward, together with 
his brother John, settled here in 1844 ; in 1845, their father came out, and they bought 
320 acres for $450. Thomas married Miss Wilson in 1842 ; she died in 1859. In 
February, 1860, he married Miss Van Meter, and has a family of ten children — Calvin 
(deceased) ; Angemima, now Mrs. Messer ; Samuel — and next family — Janette, James, 
Lewella, William, Quincy, George, Flora ; Janette, is now Mrs. Fair. Mr. Pollock has 
been Commissioner of Highways, and held school offices. Politics, Democrat; religion, 
Presbyterian. 

PETER C. REEDY, carpenter and farmer, Sec. 23 ; P. 0. Buena Vista ; 
born in Berks Co.. Penn., in 1814 ; learned his trade when 17 years of age, in Berks 
Co., and moved to Lebanon Co. ; from there to Ohio in 1839, then came to Stephenson 
Co. in 1844, in company with James Taylor and Andrew Streetmaker and family, Jacob 
Ploutz and family, Peter C. Reedy and John Emmes ; after one year in Waddams, he 
bought his farm where he now lives, of 40 acres. Mr. Reedy is a bachelor, and at 
present has his brother and wife living on the homestead. Peter C. is a Democrat. 

CHARLES REITZELL, farmer; P.O. BuenaVista; his father, Philip Reitr 
zell, and family came to Stephenson Co. in September, 1840 ; George was here in March* 
John and Jonathan in June of the same year; his father died in 1850; his mother 
died in 1879 ; the old family were Franklin, Henry, Charles, Cyrus, Elizabeth, now 
the widow of E. B. Strohecker, and Mary ; Franklin and Henry first managed the 
estate, and then Charles and Cyrus ; they run the White Hall Mills from 1850 to 1874 ; 
Mrs. E. B. Strohecker was married to Dr. E. B. Strohecker in 1850 ; family — Eugene 
R., Mary E. and Jennie G. ; Charles was born in Centre Co., Penn., in 1837, and is 
now holding a township office. 

WILLIAM RITZMAN, farmer, Seel; P. O. Orangeville; born in 
Union Co., Penn., Dec. 25, 1804; followed milling and stilling till coming West. In 
1829, he married Mary Gailwigs, who died in 1849. In 1851, June 10, he married 
Miss Mary Midderling, of Pennsylvania, and came to Stephenson Co. in November, 
1846 ; settled on his homestead April 10, 1847, which he bought of Daniel Hawley, 
consisting of about 300 acres ;' there have been twenty-two children in the family, but 
only thirteen are now living — William, Henry, Jackson, John, George, Aaron, Charles, 
Robert (deceased), Martin, Lewis, Catherine, Uriah, Calvin and Quincy. Lutheran in 
religion. 

EUSEBIUS SCHADLE, farmer, Sec. 29; P. O. Cedarville; born in 
Wurtemburg, Germany, Dec. 13, 1817 ; iu his native country he learned weaving, and 
worked at it till coming to the United States, in the month of March, 1852 ; he stayed 
in New York awhile, and then came West in May of the same year to Stephenson Co., 
and settled in Silver Creek Township on a farm, but afterward moved to Buckeye, 
where he now owns 79 acres on Sec. 29. In 1854, he married Miss Haberly, of Ger- 



BUCKEYE TOWNSHIP. 751 

many; they have five children — Hannah, now Mrs. Frouz ; Lizzie, living in Freeport ; 
John, Mary and Willie. Mr. Schadle is a Democrat, and belongs to the Catholic 
Church. 

WILLIAM STEWART, farmer, Sec. 28 ; P. 0. Cedarville ; born in 
Donegal Co., Ireland, March 17, 1833; came to Stephenson Co. in 1839, with about 
twenty-two persons in the party ; came by water to Chicago, 111., and from there by 
land, in wagons, to Freeport, where his father, Robert Stewart, took up his claim on 
Sec. 28, where William now lives, and owns 200 acres. In 1861, Nov. 7, he enlisted 
in the 46th I. V. I., Co. K ; was promoted to First Lieutenant in 1862, Oct. 11, for 
meritorious service; promoted to captaincy, and in 1866, May 15, to Brevet Major. 
In 1866, May 27, he married Miss Gransdan, and has managed the farm ever since his 
father died, Jan. 21, 1872; they have seven children — Anna B., Amelia M., Robert 
J., Elsie S., Henry G., Sadie E. and Willie C. ; the old family, thirteen ; Robert now 
in California ; Thomas, deceased ; Lucinda, now Mrs. Whitmore ; Margaret, now Mrs. 
Paul ; Mary A., now Mrs. Heckle ; William, subject of this sketch ; Catherine, now 
Mrs. Johnson; Sarah, now Mrs. Nelson; Elizabeth, now Mrs. Wier; James C, 
Charles, Clara J., now Mrs Graham, and James C. deceased; their mother died April 
14, 1878. 

DR. S. €. THOMPSON, Cedarville ; born in 1850 ; studied medicine when 
1 9 years of age ; read with Dr. Barrett, and went to Chicago and attended lectures at 
the Rush Medical College, graduating in the spring of 1872, and entered the competi- 
tive examination, and was assigned to St. Luke's Hospital, and took general practice for 
one year : he was then laid on his back by contracting the measles, and lost two good offers 
for Regular Army Physician ; this was in the spring of 1873 ; in 1874, he came to Cedar- 
ville, and took Dr. S. R. Bucher's practice, the Docter having died in 1874. He was 
one of the earliest pioneer settlers, and left a well established business, which Dr. 
Thompson most ably retains. He has quite a large laboratory connected with his office, 
and has accumulated sufficient to build a beautiful residence on the corner of Mill and 
Cedar streets. In 1879, he married Miss Ida M. Bucher. 

GEORGE TROTTER, farmer, Sec. 2 ; P. O. Orangeville ; bom in Bour- 
bon Co., Ky., June 13, 1809 ; in 1826, emigrated to Sangamon Co., 111. ; while a young- 
man passed back and forth through Stephenson Co., mining, and during the Blck 
Hawk war ; serving in that campaign under Gen. Henry ; in 1836, took this claim ; now 
owns 135 acres. In March 24, 1833. married Miss Sarah Chilton, of Madison Co. y 
111. ; their children are Thomas, Elizabeth, now Mrs. Van Matre ; James, William, 
George (deceased); Urania, now Mrs. Scott; Mary A. (deceased) ; Millard F., Sarah 
J. (deceased) ; Lucy C., now Mrs. Robey ; John C. Mr. Trotter has held school offices, 
and his wife belongs to the United Brethren Church of Orangeville. 

ANDREW WILSON, farmer, Sec. 21; P. O. Fountain Creek; born in 
1823. Donegal Co., Ireland ; he came to America in 1839, with his father, John Wilson ; 
the rest of the family were John, Mary, Eli, Samuel, James and Moses; Andrew, in 
early times, worked for Dr. Van Valzee ; mowed hay for Joseph Green, and was at 
McGee's mowing bee. He now lives on and owns 1 32 acres of the farm his father had 
originally claimed, which at one time embraced 640 acres. The house built on the old 
claim still stands. Andrew stayed on the old homestead until 1853, when he got this 
farm, ljing on Sees. 21 and 28. In 1867, he married Mrs. Woods, formerly Miss 
Pyle ; they have had one child named Mary Jane. Mr. Wilson is a Democrat, and 
belongs to the Presbyterian Church of Cedarville. 

JOHN WILSON, farmer, Sec. 21 ; P. O. Fountain Creek ; born in 1827 in 
Donegal Co., Ireland ; came to America with his father's family in 1839 ; John, among 
his early experiences, helped to build the bridge across the river at Freeport; and when 
they first got their claim there was but 10 acres broken. In 1858, he married Miss 
Devins, of Pennsylvania, and settled on his present home, Sec. 21, where he has a farm 
of 80 acres, valued at $50 an acre. Mr. Wilson is a Democrat, and has a fine family of 
five boys and five girls. John Wilson, his father, was quite an early settler in Stephen- 
son Co., and is well and favorably known. 



752 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES : 

PHILIP WINDECKER, deceased; born 1826, in Germany ; came to 
New York in 1849, where he worked as a cooper for eleven years, then coming West, 
arrived in Stephenson Co., in 1850, erected a cooper-shop, and besides making barrels 
for the surrounding country, firmed his land, using in those days, a yoke of oxen. Mr. 
Windecker died in 1876 ; he was married in 1843, and his widow now holds the farm 
of 87 acres ; their family are John, Lucy, now Mrs. Swartz ; William, Amelia, now 
Mrs. Augenstien ; Ellen, now Mrs. Hofmeister ; Sarah, now Mrs. Cochran ; Hiram, 
Albert, Clara and Joseph. Mrs. Windecker belongs to the Evangelical Church ; John 
and William belonged to the 46th I. V. I., Co. A ; they reside on Sec. 9 ; P. 0. 
Fountain Creek. 

.1 Kit IT WOHLFORD, miller, Buena Vista ; proprietor of the White Hall 
flouring-mills ; he bought the mill property in 1876, January; the dimensions are 50x60 
feet, 3^ stories high, and runs three pairs of stones, with the finest water-power in the 
county, usin^ the Leffli turbine whe-d, one 30 in., the other 36 in.; Jared's father settled 
on Sec. 12, in this county in 1842 ; he has three brothers, John, Thomas and Webster; 
he now own the mill and 360 acres of land. In 1867, married Miss Melinda Shank, 
of Wisconsin, and has six children — Ida, Emma, Johns Eddie, Mary and Meliuda, twins. 
Mr. Wohlford has held office, and is a Republican. 



LANCASTER TOWNSHIP. 

THOHAS It ELL, farmer, Sec. 6 ; P. O. Cedarville ; born in Dauphin Co., 
Penn., Dec. 2. 1819; came to Stephenson Co., in June, 1843 ; the trip from Pennsyl- 
vania here he made on horseback, in company with his brother Robert, now proprietor 
of the Tremont House in Freeport ; being a carpenter by trade, he carried on that busi- 
ness for many years in connection with farming, to which latter occupati >ns he has 
gradually giving more and more of his attention ; his farm comprises 400 acres of fine land 
in Lancaster, Harlem and Buckeye Townships. As an apt reminder of early days, there 
is yet standing near his residence the first parsonage built in Stephenson Co. Mr. B. 
is an honored member of the M. E. Church, and of the Republican party ; has held 
township offices. In 1845, he married Miss Jane W. Young, who came here in 1839, 
with her parents, Robert and Sarah Young, from Union Co., Ponn ; the first brick 
house built in Stephenson Co. was erected by her father ; it being the house now 
occupied by James Adams, one and a half miles west of Cedarville. in Buckeye Town- 
ship ; her father died in February, 1857, aged 64 ; her mother yet lives at the advanced 
age of 79. Mr. and Mrs. Bell, have four children living — James E., William R., Anna 
M. (Mrs. Clinghman) and Samuel Y.; one daughter, Sarah E. (Mrs. Badger, deceased). 

RUDOLPH K. BRUBAKER, farmer, Sec. 29; P. O. Freeport; born 
in Lancaster Co., Penn., Sept. 25, 1817; lived in Pennsylvania until 1853, when he 
removed to Stephenson Co., 111., built his present large, convenient and comfortable 
dwelling in 1854, and from that pleasant home, has since daily gone forth to indus- 
trious laborers; his farm embraces 140 acres, well cultivated, and his location gives him 
all the advantages of good society, fine markets, etc. Religious faith, Mennonite. He 
was married in 1840, in Pennsylvania, to Miss Elizabeth Siegrist, also a native of Lan- 
caster Co., in that State ; they have nine children — Abram, John, Andrew, Maria (Mrs. 
Ebersole), Benjamin, Jacob, Elizabeth (Mrs. Shoemaker), Daniel and Rudolph. 

E. B. CLINCwM AN, farmer, Sec. 5 ; P. O. Cedarville ; born in Stephenson 
Co., July 22, 1852; his father, Josiah Clingman, a well-known citizen of the county, 
settled here in 1836, and was intimately associated with the affairs of the county until 
his death, which occurred in 1865. Mr. C. has been all his life a resident of the 
couuty, except the years from 1873 to 1878, during which time he lived in Black Hawk 
Co., Iowa; has been chiefly engaged in farming, though employed as a teacher in his 
district for the winter of 1879 and 1880 ; his landed possessions comprise 168 acres, in 



LANCASTER TOWNSHIP. 753 

Dakota and Buckeye Townships. Politics, Republican. He was married, in 1871, to 
Miss Anna M. Bell, daughter of Thomas Bell, whose biography also appears in this 
•work. Their children are Harry A., Minnie, Wad and Thomas J. 

CONRAD DAHBIIAN, farmer, Sec. 16; P. O. Freeport; born in Hesse 
Darmstadt, Germany, in 1828; immigrated to America in March, 1849; lived iu New 
York until 1854. when he came to Stephenson Co., 111. ; for eleven years lived on the 
farm near where Tobias Engle now lives ; for the last fifteen years has resided in his 
present location. Starting in America without a dollar, he has, by the irresistible 
combination of hard work and economy, made for himself and family a handsome 
property, and a home noted for its many conveniences ; his farm consists of 252 acres, 
in Sees. 16 and 17; near his house is one of the finest springs of living water to be 
found in the State ; connected with this bounteous water-supply, is a splendid two- story 
brick spring-house, with special adaptations to dairy purposes ; and his large barn, 
granary, carriage-house, and comfortable dwelling, all show the care taken to have his 
surroundings in good condition. His political party is the Democratic. Mr. D. was 
married, in 1855, to Miss Elizabeth Dreitzell. who was born in Germany, in 1833. They 
have five children living — Henry, Conrad, Katie (Mrs. John Schetzel, of Dakota Terr.). 
Enlie and Lizzie ; three deceased — Mary, Augusta and Emma 

SAMUEL DAUGHENBAUGH, farmer, Sec. 14; P. O. Freeport; 
born about twenty miles from Philadelphia, in Chester Co., Penn., in the year 1807 ; 
was raised, principally, in the portion of Centre Co. that was, a' a later date, called 
Clinton Co. ; removed to Stephenson Co., 111., in May, 1848 ; his farm here comprises 
94 acres, in a good state of cultivation ; f<<r the last few years, unable to perform the 
active labors of the farm, he has entrusted the farm-work chiefly to his willing boys, 
who, with younger energies, carry on the industry. Mr. D. has held township and 
school offices. His political preferences are Democratic. In 1830, he married Miss 
Susan Wilt, who was born in Dauphin Co., Penn., in 1809 ; their children are William 
J., Mary J , deceased; Amanda C., now Mrs. Prosper Lloyd ; John S., Rebecca E., 
now Mrs. Joseph Diemer; Darius F., Sarah F., now Mrs. William Sirong ; Samuel A., 
Benjamin F. and Henry A. 

DAVID lu EBERSOLE, farmer, Sec. 28; P. 0. Freeport; born in 
Lancaster Co., Penn., in 1844; in 1868, removed to Whiteside Co., 111., and from there, 
after a two years' residence, came to Stephenson Co., in the fall of 1870; has a farm of 
80 acres, under good cultivation, with good farm buildings, etc. Religion, Mennonite ; 
politics, Republican ; has held school offices. He was married, in December, 1870. 
to Miss Maria Brubaker, daughter of Rudolph K. Brubaker, a well-known and worthy 
citizen of the same neighborhood. Mr. and Mrs. Ebersole have two children — Ella 
May and Annie Laura. 

TOBIAS ENGLE, farmer, Sec. 28; P. O. Freeport; born in Lancaster Co., 
Penn.. March 9, 1829 ; removed to Stephenson Co., III., in the spring of 1851 ; for his 
first eight years in the county was engaged in the hardware business in Freeport — 
most of the time in partnership with Henry Strohm ; while in business there, he and 
his partner built some thr^e business houses on Exchange Block, and in this and other 
ways aided materially in the building-up of the city. Since 1860, he has been chiefly 
engaged in farming and stock-raising; his farm consists of 280 acres, in Sees. 21, 22 
and 28 ; and he has, besides this, some property in Freeport. He is a member of the 
Embury M. E. Church ; is identified with the Republican party ; has held school 
offices; been County Commissioner, etc. In 1853, he married Miss Mary A. Myers, a 
native of York Co., Penn.; they have eleven children — Albert H., Jacob M., Tobias 
S., Charles A., Rosa, Mary, Ida, Emma, Lillie, Cora and Nettie. 

D. G. FACJrER, farmer, Sec. 4 ; P. O. Cedarville ; born in Northumberland 
Co., Penn., March 23, 1839; removed with his parents to Stephenson Co.. 111., in 
May, 1844; has been engaged in; farmiug, except six years, in which he was employed 
as a carpenter ; he has 95 acres of land in Sec. 7, Buckeye Township, and 8 acres in 
Waddams Township. Is a member of the Evangelical Association, and of the Repub- 
lican party; has held school and township offices. He was married in 1858, to Miss 



754 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Sarah Wagner, a native of Pennsylvania ; their children are Jestie, Anna, John, Will- 
iam, Ezra N., Joel U., Bertha May and Mary Ada. 

LEVI FAHS, farmer, Sec. 5 ; P. 0. Cedarville ; born in York Co., Penn., 
in 1831; in 1852, emigrated to Ohio, where he remained three years, removing to 
Stephenson Co. in 1855 ; has a good farm, embracing 216 acres in Lancaster and 
Waddams Townships. Is a member of the Evangelical Church, and identified with the 
Republican party; is president of School Board in his district. In 1861, he married 
Miss Ellen E. Hear, a native of Pennsylvania ; she died Feb 27, 1878 ; in the fall of 
1S79, he was married to Polly Jones, also a native of Pennsylvania; his children, liv- 
ing, are Elizabeth, Estella, Orlando, May and Emma ; those deceased are Minerva, 
John, Levi, and Wesley. 

WILLIAM GLASSER, farmer, Sec. 3; P. 0. Freeport ; born in New 
York, Feb. 11, 1834 ; at the age of 18, left New York and came to Chicago ; stopped 
near that city for half a year, then went to the Lake Superior region for two years ; 
returned then to his native place, and six months later came to Stephenson Co , in 1855, 
and has since that date made his home in this county ; he worked at the carpenter 
trade until some time after settling here ; of later years has been exclusively engaged in 
farming; has a good farm of 160 acres, well improved, good buildings, etc. Is a mem- 
ber nf the Reformed Church, and a highly esteemed citizen of his community. In 
1855, he was married to Miss Lavina Mitchell, daughter of M. P. Mitchell, a well- 
known citizen of this county; their children are Hannah M., Mary R., Irvin M., John 
F. and Eurie L ; three deceased — Elmira, Willie and Ascenath. 

L. F. HENDERSON, farmer, Sec. 29; P. 0. Freeport ; born in New 
York, Sept. 22, 1829 ; resided in that State until 1850, when he removed to Stephen- 
son Co., 111., reaching this county on the 23d of May, in that year. On the 6th of 
January, 1853, he married Mrs. Emmaretta S. Crocker; she died Sept. 7, 1872 ; in 
1874, he was married to Miss Annie A. Kramer ; they have two pleasant, bright-eyed 
children — Emmaretta M. and Freddie ; Mr. Henderson's comfortable home, not far 
from the city limits, is one of the pleasantest locations in the vicinity of Freeport ; his 
farm comprises 154 acres, and is well cared for by its genial proprietor, whose business 
enterprise in years gone by, in starting various manufacturing establishments in Free- 
port, has resulted in much benefit to the city, if not to himself. His religious connec- 
tion is with the Presbyterian Church ; his political afliliations with the Republican party. 

W. W. HUTCHISON, farmer, Sec. 3; P. 0. Freeport; is a native of 
Union Co., Penn., and was born Oct. 15, 1829 ; came to Stephenson Co., 111., in 1843 ; 
has a finely located and well-improved farm of 80 acres in the north, part of Lancaster 
Township. Is a member of the United Presbyterian Church, and identified with the 
Republican party ; he has the confidence of his fellow-citizens to the fullest extent : has 
held school and township offices ; is the present Treasurer of Stephenson Co., and 
warmly alive to the best interests of the people among whom he lives. He was married 
in 1853, to Miss Isabella Young; she died April 9, 1854; in 1867, he married 
Mary C. Hayes ; have four children — Mary B., Florence L., Annie L. and Edith J. 

RUDOLPH KENCKE, farmer, Sec. 27; P. 0. Freeport; born in Wash- 
ington Co., Wis., Oct. 10, 1844; came to Stephenson Co., 111., in 1859; has a farm o 
83 acres, in good condition, with comfortable residence, etc. During the civil war' 
Mr. Kencke gave four and a half years of faithful service to preserve the Uniou, being a 
member of Co. Gr, 46th Regt. I. V. I., participating with his command in the battles 
of Ft. Donelson, Ft. Henry, Pittsburg Landing, siege of Corinth, Holly Springs. Hat- 
chie River, siege of Vicksburg, Ft. Blakeley, etc., being discharged at the close of the 
war as Orderly Sergeant of his company. In politics he is a Republican ; has been 
School Director of his district. He was married in 1867 to Miss Martha E. Smith, a 
native of Stephenson Co. ; they have four children — Edgar, Flora, Henry and Arthur. 
Mrs Kencke is a daughter of Samuel Smith (deceased) ; one of the oldest and best 
known of the early settlers in Stephenson Co. ; he came to this county from Rockbridge 
Co., Va., in the fall of 1836, and was during all the subsequent years intimately con- 



LANCASTER TOWNSHIP. 755 

nected with the best material interests of his community ; he owned some 400 acres of 
1 md at the time of his death, and had probably broken up more of the wild land here 
than any other man in the county. His habits of industry were kept up to the day of 
his death, which was caused by a railroad accident on the 19th of November, 1878. 

A. JLAJIBERT, farmer, Sec. 5 ; P. 0. Cedarville ; was born in Somerset Co., 
Penn., in December, 1851 ; resided in that State until June, 1874, when he removed to 
Stephenson Co. ; has been constautly engaged in farming, and is regarded by his neigh- 
bors as a worthy, intelligent, and enterprising citizen. Politics, Republican, f In August, 
1877, he was married to Miss Mary A. Bear ; they have one child living— Forrest Earle ; 
one child died in infancy. 

GEORGE W. LATTIG, farmer, Sec. 23 ; P. 0. Freeport ; born in North- 
ampton Co., Penn., Aug. 22, 1795; lived in his native State until 1851, when he 
removed to Stephenson Co., 111. ; for many years he pursued his occupation of weaver ; 
finally, gave his attention exclusively to farming ; by a loug life of upright conduct, he 
has gained the respect of those associated with him, and is universally esteemed by all 
who know him ; has a farm of 65 acres ; he has held school and township offices. In 
politics, is a Republican. For sixty-six years has been a member of the German Reformed 
Church. In 1819 he married Miss Anna Jacoby, who was born near Philadelphia ; she 
died in 1871 ; the children living are Peter, Anna, Elizabeth, Hannah, Sarah, Maria, 
Emma, Matildah, Rosanna. Susannah, George, John and Eleanora ; those deceased are 
Lovina, George, William and Vina. 

OBED H. LJNTNER, farmer, Sec. 9; P. 0. Freeport. The subject of 
this sketch, who is a son of Rev. Christian H. Lintner, an honored minister of the 
Evangelical Association, was born in Lake Co., 111., in July, 1846 ; cam? to Stephenson 
Co., in September, 1866 ; has a farm of 80 acres, finely situated and in good cultiva- 
tion. His church membership is with the Evangelical Association. His politics, Repub- 
lican. He was married in 1868 to Miss Sarah E. Brown, of Stephenson Co ; their 
children are Fearon, William, Warren 0., Oliver C, Edna C, John J. and Salinas M. 
J. F. McKIBBEN, farmer, Sec. 17 ; P. 0. Freeport; born in Pennsylvania 
in 1824; resided there — where his father had been one of the early settlers in that part 
of Pennsylvania— until June, 1845, when he emigrated to Stephenson Co. ; has a nicely 
located, well-watered, and finely-improved farm of 200 acres. Is one of the leading men 
of his town-hip; having been Town Clerk for fourteen years; a School Director for 
twenty-two years, and is ever ready to work far the good of his community. Is a member 
of the Second Presbyterian Church in Freeport, which church he helped to organize. 
In politics, he is a Republican. He was married, in 1845, to Miss Mary J. McKibben, 
also a native of Pennsylvania ; their children are Ann, Elizabeth, now Mrs. J. T. 
Lease, of Ridott Township ; Clarissa, Amanda, Susan, now Mrs. R, Gardner, of Harlem 
Township ; James, Perry, Mary, now Mrs. W. H. Brubaker, of Lancaster Township ; 
Frank, Nellre and Mary J. (deceased). 

R. K. MADDEN, teacher, Sec. 10 ; P. 0. Freeport ; bjrn in Pennsylvania 
Sept. 27, 1834 ; resided in Pennsylvania until 1857, when he removed to Wooster, 
Wayne Co., Ohio ; remained there five years, removing to Perry Co., in Southern 
Illinois, in the fall of 1862 ; in 1862, went to Washington Co , 111., where he lived 
until 1875, when he came to Stephenson Co., where he has resided since that date ; the 
profession of teaching is the one in whie.h Mr. M. has been chiefly engaged; he was 
admitted to the bar in Ohio and re-admitted in this State, but pursues teaching, because 
to him it is more congenial than the practice of law. He was married in Ohio, in 1861, 
to Miss Hattie Somers ; she died in 1879 ; three children— Klem, Otto and Edgar. 

I. H. xlIALLORY, farmer, Sec. 25 ; P. 0. Freeport; born in Belmont Co., 
Ohio, Nov. 27, 1829 ; when a year old, removed with his parents, D. W. C. and Ellen 
Mallory, to Vermillion Co., 111.; where they resided until the removal to Stephenson Co. 
in the fall of 1836, and this has been the place of residence since that date; Mr. M. 
has a good farm of 137 acres in Sees. 24 and 25, with good dwelling and nther build- 
ings, etc. His devotion to the Union was shown during the civil war by his enlisting 



756 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

as a soldier iu Co. B, 4t!th I. V. I., a gallant regiment, which did faithful work in 
many battles of the war ; he was mustered out at Mound City, 111., for disability caused 
by exposure in the line of duty as a soldier. He is a member of the Christian Church, 
and, in politics, a Republican of unquestioned devotion to the best interests of the 
country ; has heid school and township offices. In 1855, he married Miss Miranda V. 
Webb, who was also born in Ohio, but removed to Illinois in early life; their children 
are Harriet E., De Witt M., Jasper J., Mary E., Albert N., Almira W., James H.. 
Jane M., William E., Sarah Belle and Martha A. 

REUBEN MEYERS, farmer, Sec. 23 ; P.O. Freeport ; born in North- 
ampton Co., Penn., Jan. 16, 1829 ; removed to Stephenson Co., 111., in 1852 ; his first 
three years in this county he worked in a mill, and after this, until the war commenced, 
was employed in a woolen factory. During the civil war, he was three years in the serv- 
ice as a soldier in Co. G, 93d I. V. I., being with his command in all its numerous 
engagements 'in the West and Southwest, among which may be mentioned the battles 
of Missionary Ridge, Alt^iona Pass, siege of Vicksburg, etc., etc. Since the war, he has 
been engaged in farming; has hell school offices; in religion a Presbyterian, and in 
politics a Republican. He was married in 1852 to Miss S irah M. Lattig, daughter of 
George W. Lattig ; their children are George William, died March 8, 1880 ; Stephen 
S. J., Anna E., Eugene L., Susie L. and Frederic C. 

JACOB P. MITCHELL, farmer, Sec. 11; P. 0. Freeport; born in 
Centre Co., Penn., Sept. 18, 1818 ; the part of Centre Co. in which he lived was after- 
ward named Clinton Co. ; removed to Stephenson Co., 111., in the spring of 1842 ; 
being a carpenter and joiner by trade, he worked at that business until about 1875, 
much of the time also employing other workmen, and has erected many of the buildings 
in Stephenson Co. ; since 1875, he has been farming, which vocation he had also car- 
ried on previously in connection with his other work ; has 205 acres of fine land in Lan- 
caster Township, besides 15 acres of timber land in Ridott Township. Mr. Mitchell has 
an accurate knowledge of much of the settlement of the county, and extensive informa- 
tion derived from personal observation of other localities, having traveled many thousands 
of miles at different times through Iowa, Missouri, Kansas and Nebraska, at early and 
exciting periods in their history. In politics, he is a Republican. In 1842, just pre- 
vious to his removal here, he married Miss Eleanor M. Pollock, of Clinton Co., Penn. ;. 
she was a native of Union Co., Penn. ; they have seven children living — Norton L., 
Robert T., Austin H., Mary J., Martha A., James W. and Sarah E.; three deceased — 
William B., Maggie Isabella and Emily M. 

WILLIAM B. MITCHELL, farmer, Sec. 12 ; P. 0. Freeport; born in 
Clinton Co., Penn., Dec. 16, 1815 ; came to Stephenson Co., 111., about the 1st of Sep- 
tember, 1810 ; being a carpenter by trade, he pursued that vocation in Pennsylvania 
and for a good many years rffter coming here ; of late years, has devoted his attention 
to farming ; has 656 acres of land in this county, an exceedingly comfortable, home- 
like residence, and, having started in life a poor man, he is indebted to his own exer- 
tions for his present ownership of a very considerable property. He has held various 
public offices — Supervisor, Assessor, Justice of the Peace etc., etc., at different times,, 
almost ever since the organization of his township. Politics, Republican. In 1842, he 
was married to Miss Lydia Furst, a native of Pennsylvania; their children are Laird 
A., Duncan N., Ann R., Ellen S., Jerusha Jane (Mrs. Jacob L. Thomas), William F. r 
Laura C. and John A. 

JOSEPH MYERS, farmer, Sec. 9 ; P. 0. Freeport; born iu Crawford Co., 
Ohio, Nov. 22, 1843; when quite young removed with his parents to De Kalb 
Co., 111.; they being among the first settlers in that locality. In 1868, he came to 
Stephenson Co., where he has since, for most of the time, being engaged in farming ; 
his farm comprising 40 acres ol land, under tine cultivation. During the great rebel- 
lion, he was for two years a member of Company A, 17th Regiment, Illinois Cavalry, 
doing faithful service with his command, and being honorably discharged with his com- 
pany and regimental the close of the war. He is a member of the Evangelical Associa- 
tion ; in politics, affiliates with the Republican party. " In Sept. 1867, he married Miss 



LANCASTER TOWNSHIP. 757 

Sarah E. Lintner, daughter of Rev. C. H. Lintner ; they have five children, William 
E., Obed H., John J., Lillian C. and Lurie C. 

WILLIAM PETERS, farmer, Sec. 28; P. 0. Freeport ; born in Centre 
Co., Penn., Oct. 2, 1816; lived there until 1844; when he removed to Wayne Co. r 
Ohio ; from thence in the fall of 1845, he moved to La Grange Co., Ind.; remaining 
there eight years ; coming to Stephenson Co., 111., in June, 1853; his farm consists 
of 60 acres, in a beautiful situation, and on which he carries on, very nicely, the kin- 
dred pursuits of farming and fruit growing. Mr. Peters is, by profession, a surveyor, 
and in various States and localities, has pursued his profession since 1840; was for 
eight years the County Surveyor of Stephenson Co., enjoying in large measure the confi- 
dence of his fellow-citizens. He has been entrusted with various local offices ; has been 
Notary Public, in his town, for th-e last sixteen years; has also been Justice of the 
Peace, and held various school and township offices. Is a member of the Second 
Presbyterian Church in Freeport, and is much esteemed by all who know him. He was 
married, first, to Miss Isabella H. Swansey, of Pennsylvania, on the 8th day of June, 
1844 ; She died, Aug. 29, 1871 ; his second marriage took place on the 9th of Feb. 
1873, to Mrs. Susan Garman, also a native of Pennsylvania ; three children living — 
Henry E. of Fort Scott, Kansas ; Lillie A., Mrs. M. J. Becker; also of Fort Scott ; 
and Egarie ; one daughter — Laura Frances, died July 6, 1870. 

WILLIAM W. PHILLIPS, farmer, Sec. 21 ; P. 0. Freeport; born in 
Albany Co., N. Y., in 1818; lived there until April, 1846, when he came to Stephen- 
son Co., 111., being one of the first pioneers here from his part of New York ; has a 
neat farm of 80 acres, which he has brought to its present comfortable condition, by 
patient industry and care. Eeligion, Methodist; politics, Republican. He was married 
in January, 1845, to Miss Hannah Townsend, from the :»ame neighborhood, in New York, 
from whence he came ; she died in 1864. In June, 1874, he was married to Mrs. 
Sarah Schermerhorn (maiden name, Stafford) ; three children living — Wesley R. in 
Kansas ; George O., and Vernie R.; three deceased — Sarah Melissa, Joseph Avilla, and 
Amla. 

JACOB W. RLTTER, blacksmith and carpenter, Cedarville ; born in Dau- 
phin Co., Penn., Nov. 15, 1817 ; he learned his trade in Berks Co., Penn., with his father, 
in 1835 ; went to Ohio at journey work in 1840. October he married Miss Hartman ; 
worked in a shop of his own in 1845, Schoolkill Co.; he was here over seven years, and 
afterward in Dauphin, and Fisherville ; he came West in 1854, April 15, and located 
in Cedarville; first lived in his shop, then built his present home, in 1855, Dec. 17 ; 
in 1860, put his blacksmith shop up. In 1861, Nov. 16, enlisted ; however, his health 
failing, returned after nine months' service. Went into his shop, and has followed the 
business since. Has had a family of eleven children — William H., Sarah A., Benjamin 
F , Anna C, John J. A., Mary E., one deceased, no name ; Susan R. H., Winfield S. 
H., David W. J., Isaac T. F. R. 

R. F. REZNER, farmer, Sec. 8; P. O. Freeport; born in Union Co., Penn., 
Aug. 25, 1825 ; he was raised a farmer, but, at the age of 25, engaged in mercantile 
business, in partnership with his brother-in-law, in Columbia Co., Penn. ; after five years 
of mercantile life, he sold his interest in the store to his partner, and came Wett, to 
Stephenson Co., in 1856, and has since been engaged in farming; has 80 acres of good 
land, with large and convenient buildings, and all the surroundings of a comfortable and 
cultivated home. Has been School Director nearly all the time since his residence here ; 
for the last six years Supervisor for his township, and universally spoken of as " one of 
the best men in the county ;" politics, Republican. His religious preferences are with 
the Presbyterian Church, of which his wife is a member — Second Presbyterian Church, 
of Freeport. He was married in December, 1848, to Miss Elizabeth Sheller ; she was 
born in Lebanon Co., Penn. ; removed to Huntingdon Co. when quite young, and to 
Union Co., in the same State, a few years before marriage ; they have four children 
living — James, Laura, John and JScott ; three children deceased — Scott, Maggie, and one 
who died in infancy. 



758 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

JOSEPH SIEFERMAN, farmer, Sec. 28; P. 0. Freeport; born in 
Baden, Germany, Oct. 3, 1827 ; emigrated to America in 1858, and settled in the 
same year in Stephenson Co. ; coming here with the honest desire to find a place where 
he could secure fair pay for industrious toil, he has done much hard work and is 
rewarded by the possession of a comfortable home and a carefully tilled farm, comprising 
80 acres. His religion is Catholic; his politics, to vote for "the best men." He was 
married in February, 1865, to Miss Teresa Bene, also a native of Baden ; they have 
three children living — Mary, William and Caroline ; one child died in infancy. 

LORENZ SIEFERMAN, farmer, Sec. 28; P. 0. Freeport; born in 
Baden, Germany, in 1837 ; came to America, and settled in Stephenson Co., in 1864. 
He soon afterward enlisted in Co. C, 46th I. V. I., and for the remainder of the 
civil war did faithful service as a soldier for his adopted country, being engaged in 
the battles of Black River Bridge, Mobile, Spanish Fort, and the other engagements of 
the final year's warfare ; since the war he has been industriously engaged in farming ; 
lias a good farm of 80 acres. He is a member of the Catholic Church. In November, 
1872, he married Miss Wilhelmina Hunt, also a native of Baden; they have three 
children — Wilhelmina, Anna and Helena. 

WILLIAM W. SMITH, farmer, Sec. 20 ; P. 0. Freeport ; born in Can- 
ton, Ohio, July 20, 1826; removed with his parents to Stephenson Co., 111., in 1835, 
landing in the county on the 31st of October of that year; his father, Julius Smith, 
deserves special mention, as an early settler ; beiug a carpenter and builder, he did 
about the first work of that kind that was done in Freeport ; as examples of his work 
may be mentioned his building the first court house, and the first bridge across the 
Pecatonica River ; he was one of the first Commissioners after the organization of the 
county ; for many years a Justice of the Peace ; one of the charter members of the first 
Masonic lodge in Freeport, and in various other ways intimately associated with the 
early settlement of the county ; the confidence reposed in him during the earlier days 
was continued by his numerous old-time friends and younger acquaintances down to the 
day of his death, which occurred Feb. 15, 1879; his wife, Eleanor Smith, had died 
July 15, 1850. The first business in which the subject of this sketch engaged for him- 
self, was the manufacture of shingles, which he carried on extensively in Freeport, from 
18-43 until after the railroad from Chicago reached this point ; he was subsequently 
engaged in dealing in lumber, wood, etc., in connection with farming, and has, of late 
years, devoted his entire attention to agricultural pursuits; he resided in Freeport until 
the fall of 1876, when he removed to his present residence; his farm comprises 160 
acres of well-improved land, with a neat farm-house, commanding a fine view of the city 
near it. He has held several important offices ; was first Marshal of Freeport under 
the city organization, filling that office during the years 1855, 1856 and 1857, and 
filled various other city offices, and had been one of the Town Trustees previous to 
city organization ; during most of the years of t^he civil war he was engaged in the 
secret service. He is identified with the Republican party, and well known throughout 
the county as one of its most honorable, upright citizens. Mr. "S. was married on the 
6th of March, 184-3, to Miss Margaret Lawn, a native of -New York; they have three 
children living — Charles W., married, and living in Lancaster Township; William 0., 
married and living near Ackley, Iowa, and Minnie; four children deceased — Ellen, 
Josephine, Elizabeth and Martha (Mrs. Charles Haggart) ; the last-named daughter died 
in Freeport in 1875 ; her husoand died April, 1879 ; their two orphan children — Ellen 
M. and Carrie, live with their grandparents, William W. and Margaret Smith, subjects 
of this sketch. 

BENJAMIN SNYDER, farmer, Sec. 19; P. 0. Freeport; born in Penn- 
sylvania, April 5, 1807; removed to Stephenson Co., 111., in June, 18-40; is widely 
known throughout the county as a thorough-going business man, and public-spirited 
citizen ; has 500 acres of land iu Lancaster and Harlem Townships, and some landed 
property elsewhere; and in addition to his management of this large acreage, has been 
and is engaged in other business, such as lumber and wood dealer iu Freeport, besides 
bung agent for the Lancaster Fire and Lightniug Insurance Cunpany, etc. Is a 



ROCK RUN TOWNSHIP. 759 

member of the Embury M. E. Church. In politics acts with the Republican party. 
Has held school, township and county offices. His first marriage was in May, 1842, to 
Miss Mary Stynes, of Pennsylvania, formerly of New Jersey ; her death occurred May 
3, 1856. His second marriage was to Miss Julia A. Sidels, a native of Pennsylvania, 
on the 25th of September, 1856. The children living are Adrain L., Mary E., Mrs. 
Richard, of Nebraska; William H., George F., Laura A., Charley L. and Carrie May. 
Those deceased are Rebecca, John, Sarah, Amaretta and Catherine. 

WARREN STEBBINS, farmer, Sec. 27 ; P. 0. Freeport. The subject 
of this sketch was born in Stephenson Co., Feb. 27, 185.5 ; has been a continuous 
resident of this county; in partnership with his brother has 219 acres of land, and is 
an energetic and enterprising farmer. Politics, Republican. He was married, in 1876, 
to Miss Ellen Screiber, a native of Ogle Co., Ill ; their children are Lillian, Frances 
and Emma Jane. 

C. YARCrER, farmer, Sec. 15; P. 0. Freeport; was born in Centre Co., 
Penn., about 1820 ; came to Stephenson Co. in October, 1865 ; has a fine farm of 187 
acres. Has held school and township offices ; is a member of the Second Presbyterian 
Church, in Freeport ; his political preferences are with the Democratic party, but his 
influences are exerted to keep in office the best men, irrespective of party affiliations. 
In 1843, he married Miss Sarah J. McManigal, a native of Centre Co., Pa. Their 
children are Mary C, Harriet J. James L., Franklin R., Thomas M., William C , Sarah 
E., Juliet L., Hiram M. and Laura J. 



ROCK RUN TOWNSHIP. 

A. O. ANDERSON, farmer, Sec. 22 and 23 ; P. 0. Davis; born in Norway, 
July 16, 1835, and came to America in 1839, with his parents ; the first land he bought 
was 40 acres, ou which he made the improvements, and now owns 170 acres. Has been 
Path Master; in politics, Republican ; in religion, Lutheran. His wife, Ingabor Knud- 
son, was born in Norway, in 1834; came to America in 1860; they were married in 
1862, and they have had eight children — Annie Mary, Julia, Olie A., Carrie, Charlie, 
Ingabor, Isabella and Jane, deceased. Has run a threshing machine for sixteen years; 
has a fine stone barn, 64x36. 

SYVERT O. ANDERSON, farmer, Sec. 23; P. 0. Davis; born in 
Stephenson Co., 111., in 1841; living on the old homestead; has 90 acres of land; his 
father and mother were born in Norway ; they are about 80 years of age. Syvert's wife 
was Helga Gunderaon ; born in Norway, in 1859; they were married June 24, 1879. 
Halvor 0. Anderson, a brother, enlisted in the 72d I. V. I., July, 1862, and contracted 
a disease from which he died; he was at the battle of Stone River. 

JOSEPH AFFJLERBAUGH, farmer, Sec. 35 ; P. 0. Davis ; born in 
Berks Co., Penn., Dec. 10, 1809 ; came to Illinois Nov. 12, 1849 ; entered 40 acres 
of land and improved it ; he now owns 600 ; a blacksmith by trade, has shop near the 
house. In politics, Democrat ; in religion, Evangelical ; has been School Director 
twelve years, and Path Master. His wife, Elizabeth Wise, was born in 1815, at North- 
ampton Co., Penn. ; married in 1835; have had twelve children — Nathaniel, in 
Nebraska; James, in Davis ; Mary, now Mrs. Holgate, in Missouri; Sophia, now Mrs. 
Fink ; Joseph, in Kansas ; Catharine, now Mrs. Grrove, in Shelby Co., 111. ; Susan, 
now Mrs. Straw, in Shanon ; Thomas, in Nebraska ; Harrison, at home ; Annij, now 
Mrs. Snyder ; Charlie, deceased ; infant, deceased. 

D. BEIiliMAN, retired farmer ; P. 0. Davis ; born in Lewisburg, Union 
Co., Penn., March 18, 1809 ; came to Stephenson Co. in June, 1852, and bought 120 
acres, on which he made most of the improvements. Has been Supervisor for Rock Run 
Township for thirteen years, and has held other of the town offices. Member of 



760 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

Lutheran Church ; has been Trustee and Elder for several years ; in politics, Repub- 
lican. His wife, Rachael Roush, was born in Union Co., Penn., at Mifflinsburg, in 
1817 ; married in February, 1832 ; have had eleven children, seven living. 

A. BEST, dealer in furniture and cabinet-maker, Davis ; born in Pennsyl- 
vania, Jan 30, 1853; came to Illinois with his parents and settled in Winnebago Co. 
on a farm of 120 acres ; engaged in business in 1877. In politics, Republican ; in 
religion, Evangelical. His wife, Emma Fisher, was born in Pennsylvania in 1856, 
and married in 1877 ; have had three children — Lydia, May, and infant (twin), died 
Oct. 17, 1879. 

JOSEPH BINKER, farmer, Sec. 23 ; P. 0. Davis ; born in Northampton 
Co., Penn., in 1843, and came to Illinois in the year 1872 ; bought 80 acres of land 
and made the improvements ; has a good bank barn 60x34, also good house. Enlisted 
in the 153d Penn. V. I. in 1862, and mustered out in 1865. Tn politics, Republican ; 
in religion, Lutheran ; has been School Director. His wife, Malinda Kem, was born 
in Northampton Co., Penn., in 1846 ; they were married in 1866, and have had seven 
children — Ellen, died in 1869 ; Edna, Frank, Jennie, Edgar, Flora and Willie. 

J. Ii. BLA€K3HORE, dealer in drugs, paints and oils ; born in Stephen- 
son Co., Rock Grove Township, in 1843; worked on the farm until he went West, 
teaching school in Van Ruren Co., Iowa, about one year ; then to Kansas, and teaching 
about one year there ; then returned to Davis, and engaged in druijs. In politics, 
Democrat ; in religion, Liberal. His wife, Mary Haid, was born in Kansas in 1855 ; 
married in 1873. 

MICHAEL BLOOi, farmer, Sec. 33; P. O. Dakota; born in Ravaria' 
Germany, in 1821 ; came to America in 1836 to Erie Co., N. Y., and to Stephenson 
Co. in 1854; bought 5 acres, and his wife bought 40 acres, and they now own 120 
acres, on which they have made good improvements ; has paid some attention to the 
rai-ing of bees. In politics, Democrat ; in religion, Catholic. His wife, Mary Vingert 
was born in Fridevig, Germany ; they were married in New York ; have had thir- 
teen children — John, at home; Mary, now Mrs. Eshed, in Missouri; Michael, at home, 
Anthony, at home ; Eva, now Mrs. Rarn, in Stephenson Co. ; Joseph, at home ; Mary 
Rarbara, at home ; four deceased. 

D. BOIjIjMAN, restaurant and wholesale liquor, stock and grain buyer, 
Davis ; also keeps a fine stable of horses ; a fine stallion, sired by Iron Sides and Messen- 
ger, and a jack. Rorn in Pennsylvania in 1829; came to Illinois in 1854; owns town 
property, and a large barn 30x40 feet. In politics, Democrat ; in religion, Liberal. His 
father was born in Pennsylvania in 1801 ; his mother, 1803; and they now reside with 
him, as also does his sister. 

URIAH BOYDEN, farmer, Sec. 20 ; P. O. Rock City; born in New York 
in 1808 ; came to Stephenson Co., Sept. 27, 1839 ; bought a claim of 160 acres, and 
now owns 152, on which he has made improvements; has two good springs of water on 
the place. Enlisted Aug. 14, 1862 ; discharged Dec. 21, 1862. In 1852 went across the 
Plains; remained about one year. In politics, Republican ; in religion, Liberal. His 
wife, Elmira Snyder, was born in New York, 1811 ; married in New York, 1839 ; has 
had five children — Caroline, now Mrs. March; Ann Jane, died 1854; Eva Eliza, now 
Mrs. Bonebright ; Lucinda, now Mrs. Keagle ; Jane, died when young. 

MARTIN BRENEMAN, born Aug. 28, 1784 ; died Dec. 24, 1837 ; Matty 
Breneman, born April 22, 1796, in Lancaster Co., Penn. ; she was afterward Mrs. Shan- 
ton, and died Nov. 11, 1857; John Breneman, their second son, is now a farmer in 
Rock Run Township, Stephenson Co., Sec. 24; P.O.Davis; was born in Lancaster 
Co., Penn., Jan. 15, 1821 ; went to Ohio and settled in Medina Co., and remained there 
fifteen years, and then went to Stephenson Co. in the spring of 1867, and bought a farm 
of 110 acres, and has built a fine house with fine barn and out-buildings; his wife, 
Catherine Cummings, was born in Cumberland Co., Penn., May 2, 1826, and married Feb. 
5, 1852 ; died Nov. 30, 1879, and had three children — Mary, was born in Medina Co., 
Ohio, Dec. 9, 1852, and is now Mrs. Kloster, in Douglas Co., Minn; John W., born 



ROCK RUN TOWNSHIP. 761 

Jan. 23, 1857, now at home ; infant (deceased). In politics, Republican ; in religion., 
Liberal. 

DANIEL W. BKUBARER, farmer, P. 0. Freeport ; born in Lancaster 
Co., Penn., 1848; came to Illinois in 1851, and owns 90 acres of land; made all the 
improvements. In politics, Republican ; in religion, United Brethren. Has been Path- 
master. His wife, Amelia Bockmier, born in Stephenson Co., 185-1 ; married, 1874 ; had 
one child — Samuel 0. (deceased), 7 months and 22 days old. 

WILLIAM H. BRUBAKER, farmer, Sec. 8; P. 0. Freeport; born 
in Lancaster Co., Penn., in 1840 ; came to Illinois in 1852, with his father, who bought 
300 acres and made the improvements ; his father died some time ago ; he owns 90 
acres of land. In politics, Republican ; in religion, Liberal. He enlisted, in the fall of 
1863, in the 46th I. V. I., and served till the close of the war. 

FREDERICK BUTICOFER, wagon and carriage maker, Davis; born 
in Switzerland, in 1836 ; came to America in 1857, and went to Wisconsin ; then to 
Davis in 1868 ; owns town property. In politics, Republican ; in religion, Spiritualist. 
His wife, Christer Breithaupt, was born at Baden in 1848 ; came to America in 
1853; married in 1866, and have had four children — Ida, Charles, Owasso and Clay- 
ton. He enlisted in the 95th I. V. I., at Harvard, McHenry Co., Aug. 2, 1862 ■ mus- 
tered out at Springfield, Oct. 2, 1865 ; engaged at Vicksburg, Nashville, Mobile, Mont- 
gomery, and with Price in Missouri. 

DR. F. A. BUTTERFIELD, Davis ; born in Rock Run Township in 
1854; bought town property in Dakota; sold it and came to Davis. He attended 
Rush Medical College and graduated in the clas-s of 1879-80. In politics, Republican 
in religion, Presbyterian. His wife, Alice J. Martin, was born in Dakota Township in 
1852 ; married in 1875 ; have had two children — Ada O. and W. Ray. 

DAVID CABLE, retired farmer, Sec. 9; P. 0. Ridott ; born in Somerset 
Co., Penn., Oct. 30, 1803 ; came to Ohio in 1828, and then to Uliuois in 1853 ; bought 
160 acres of land and made most of the improvements; now owns 167 J acres. In 
religion, Liberal ; in politics, Republican. His wife, Barbara Hughs, was born in Penn- 
sylvania in 1812 ; married in 1827, and have had twelve children, as follows: Hattie 
now Mrs. Wolf, in Rock Run; Rebecca, now Mrs. McDonald, in Ohio; Jacob, in 
Rock Run Township ; Louisa, deceased ; David, in Grundy Co., Iowa ; Seth, in Ridott ■ 
William, at home with his father; Elmos, in Montgomery Co.. Iowa ; Wash, in Pierce 
Co., Wis. ; Stephen, in Allen Co., Kan. ; Adeline, now Mrs. Welyer, on the old farm ; 
Serafa, now Mrs. Martin, in Nebraska. 

JACOB CABLE, farmer, Sec. 15 ; P. 0. Ridott ; born in Knox Co., Ohio, 
in 1833 ; came to Illinois in 1853, a month in advance of his father ; bought 47 acres, 
and now owns 62 acres, on which he has made the improvements. In politics, Repub- 
lican ; in religion, Liberal. His wife, Sarah Ann Gamel, was born in Pennsylvania in 
1837 ; married in 1854; have eight children — Laura (now Mrs. Morrison, in Iowa), 
Symantha Cat home), Theodora, Wilson W., Charles, Emeline, Delbert and Ida. 

WILLIAM CABLE, farmer, Sec. 9; P. 0. Ridott, born in Knox Co., 
Ohio, 1843; came to Illinois, 1853; owns 80 acres of land; made all the improve- 
ments ; enlisted, 1864, in the 46th I. V. I., mustered out in 1866 ; in politics, Republi- 
can ; in religion, Liberal ; his wife was born in Somerset Co., Penn.; married 1869, 
in June ; have had two children, Milvin and Angie E. 

H. D. COLE, farmer, Sec. 3 ; P. 0. Davis ; born in Erie Co., Penn., 1841 ; came 
to Illinois in 1864 with his father, who entered the land, and H. D. bought the homestead 
of 80 acres, and has since bought 40, and made some improvements. In politics, Re- 
publican, and in religion, Methodist ; his wife, Diana Hoag, was born in Rock Run Town- 
ship, Stephenson Co., in 1840 ; married in 1862, and has had nine children, six living — 
Charles Sidney, Frank Martin, deceased ; John, deceased ; Olive, Lottie, Guy, deceased: 
Roscoe, Archer W., Edward J. 

R. E. COTHERMEN, miller and farmer, Sec. 5 ; P. 0. Rock City ; born in 
Union Co., Penn., 1835 ; went to Ohio, remained about one year, then to Stephenson Co., 



762 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

and worked in Freeport, then in Green Co., Wis.; then in 1871, came to Rock Run, 
and bought the old saw and grist mill built by Michael Shane; the stcne in this mill 
were brought to this country from Pennsylvania by Vanwenzler, who put them in a 
mill built at Cedarville, and these are the first stones brought to this county ; when 
Adams built the new mill at Cedarville, he sold them to Shane, who put them in the 
mill at Rock Run, they are supposed to be over 100 years old ; in 1877, he built 
a new mill ; he also owns 63 acres, on which he has made some very fine improvements. 
Liberal in Religion ; in politics, Republican ; has been School Director. His first wife, 
Isabell Denins, born in Stephenson Co., married, 1856, died, March 7, 1862, in Wis- 
consin, and had four children — Charles F., Dixon T., teacher at Baileyville ; Jessie, now 
Mrs. Hoag; Tilly Bell, in Green Co., Wis.; Matilda Winkelbeck, born in Pennsylvania 
in 1846. married at Monroe, Wis., and have one child — Ida May. 

S. JT. DAVIS, farmer, Sec. 13; P. 0. Davis; born in Crawford Co., Penn., 
1822 ; removed to Erie Co., Springfield, remained about one year, then removed to 
Illinois, Stephenson Co., to what was then known as Stackhouse, Camer and Flower's 
Mill, located in Sec. 27 ; he bought a claim of the mill property, and owns at present 
477 acres, with a fine three-story stone building with fine improvements ; also laid out 
the town of Davis, named after this family. Was first Town Clerk, for eight years ; 
Assessor of Internal Revenue. His wife, Marv L. Ests, was born in New York in 
1834; married in New York, in 1859; in politics, Republican; in religion, Liberal. 

JOHNS. DAUGHENBAUGH, farmer, Sec. 16 ; P. 0. Ridott ; born 
in Center Co., Penn., 1838; came to Illinois in 1846, with his father ; they bought 
1 17 J acres of land on which they made improvements; afterward John S. bought 30 
acres, and now owns 40 acres of good farm land, with good improvements. In politics 
Republican ; in religion, Liberal. His wife, Nancy Hathaway, born in Stephenson Co., 
1840 ; married in 1860, and had six children — Daniel, Robert, Franklin, Cora, Clara, 
infant, deceased. 

CHRIST FEENY, farmer, Sec. 11 ; P. O. Davis ; born in Lippe-Detmold, 
Germany, in 1823 ; came to America in 1854 ; bought 40 acres of land, made the im- 
provements and sold it; bought 60 acres more, which he sold, and then bought 120 
acres more. His wife, Amelia Beckmeir, born in Germany iu 1835, came to America 
in 1855; married in 1857, and have nine children — Amelia, now Mrs. Gake ; Mary, 
Henry, Mina, Louisa, Sophia, David, Frederick and John. In politics, Republican ; 
in religion, Evangelical. 

S. R. FOSTER, farmer, Sec. 20 ; P. O. Rock City ; born in Union Co., 
Penn., in 1833, and in 1847, with his father, came to Illinois, and now owns 76 acres 
and made the improvements of a substantial kind. His wife, Nancy Barber, born at 
Rock Run in 1839, married in 1858, and have five children — F. R., A. J., Jennie S., 
Charles J., Dora, deceased. Presbyterian in religion ; Democrat in politics. 

XOUIS GERMAIN, farmer, Sec. 34 ; P. 0. Rock City ; born in France in 
1825, and came to America in 1852 ; remained in New York seventeen years, and in 
1872 came to Illinois and bought 40 acres and has made the improvements; also some 
timber land. His wife, Mary Bussly. born in France in 1831 ; were married in 1854 ; in 
religion, Catholic; have had nine children, six living, and most of them away from home. 

MARTIN GSTLIjEN, deceased ; born in Ireland ; came to America in 1855, 
and remained six years in New York ; then came to Stephenson Co., worked on the 
railroad, bought 80 acres of land and made the improvements ; he died June, 1866. 
His wife, Catherine Kelly, was born in Ireland in 1822, and came to America in 1855 ; 
married in 1838, and had nine children — Margaret, now Mrs. Stinson ; Michael, James, 
John, Owen, Ellen, Ed., Catherine, deceased ; Eliza, deceased. Edward SufFran, 
her second husband, was born in Ireland in 1826, married in 1868, and died on Christ- 
mas Day, 1879. He had children by his first wife, and was in the war of the 
rebellion. 

JOHN GLYNN, farmer, Sec. 13; P.O. Pecatonica ; born in Ireland in 
1815 and went to England, remaining one year ; he came to America, Stephen- 



ROCK RUN TOWNSHIP. 763 

son Co., and entered 80 acres ; has now 300, and made some fine improvements ; 
has a beautiful grove, fine spring of water and stream on the land ; also has a 
fine herd of Devon cattle. In politics. Republican; in religion, Catholic ; has been 
School Director. He spent some years in California during the gold excitement in 
1849. His wife, Mary Sowards, was born in New York in 1844 ; married in 1858, and 
have had eight children — Katherine, James, Maggie,Tildia, Rosa. Mary, Martin and Mike. 

AARON GOLD, proprietor of hotel and retired farmer; P. O. Davis; born 
in Northampton Co., Penn., 1820 ; came to Illinois in April, 1857 ; bought land two years 
previous to his coming, and made all the improvements, and now owns 80 acres in Sec. 
23, and came into Davis aud built the hotel in 1857, a very pleasant place near 
the depot of the C., M. & St. Paul R. R., also the post office. In politics, Republican ; 
in religion, Lutheran. His first wife, Ellen Cokhoom, was born in Pennsylvania in 
1828; married June 15, 1845; died March 20, 1874, the children are Matilda, 
Oliver Franklin Sidney, Harriett, now Mrs. Rossman, at Delmar ; Janet Iva, Alice, 
now Mrs. Kunes, in Delmar; James E., at Milton, Iowa; John at home, William 
at home; Ellen S., died Oct. 5, 1868; Mable Clair. His second wife — Annie Marie 
Knolf, was born in Pennsylvania in 1830 ; married at Davis, Feb. 1, 1876. 

J. H. GRAHAM, merchant and Postmaster, Rock City ; born in Northum- 
berland Co., Penn., in 1824, and came to Stephenson Co., June, 1842 ; entered 240 acres, 
and now owns 353, on which he has made improvements of a substantial kind. He has 
bought grain on the Western Union, in his own name, younger than any other man on 
the line. His wife, Margaret Young, was born in Pennsylvania in 1 835 ; married, in 1857, 
and have had eleven children — ten living at present. 

CHARLES HAAS, farmer, Sec. 4 ; P. O. Rock City ; born in Germany, in 
1830 ; came to America at the age of 9 years, and settled in Northampton Co., Penn., and 
in 1877 came to Illinois, and bought 61 acres, and has made part of the improvements. 
In politics, Republican ; in religion, Lutheran. Enlisted in the 79th Penn. V. I., Oct. 
8, 1861, and mustered out at the close of the war. His wife, Christina Kurtz, was born 
in Germany, in 1839 ; came to America, in 1862 ; married, in 1864, and had had four 
children — John, Andrew, Henry (deceased), Charles. 

JOHN HOACjt, farmer, Sec. 8 ; P. O. Ridott; born in Susquehanna Co. > 
Penn., in 1814; came to Illinois in 1836; made a claim and sold ; bought 160 acres; 
now has 205 acres ; made all the improvements of a fine brick house, barn, good run- 
ning water and spring. In politics, Republican. In religion, Methodist Episcopal ; is 
Trustee and Steward. Has not been out of office since the township was organized. 
His wife, Margaret Row, born in New York, Dutchess Co., in 1817; came West in 
1838; married in 1839; have had nine children, seven living — Henry, in Black Hawk 
Co., Iowa ; Diana, now Mrs. H. D. Cole, in Stephenson Co. ; Charles, at Storm Lake, 
Iowa ; Alma, at home ; Daniel, at home ; Edward, at home ; Olive, now Mrs. Stephens, 
in Black Hawk Co., Iowa ; Betty and Alfred, deceased. 

C. B. JOHNSON, farmer, Sec. 22 ; P. O. Davis ; born in Norway, in 1827 ; 
came to America in 1859, and went to Janesville, Wis., and worked at his trade, black- 
smithing ; came to Bock Run and bought 48 acres of land, and made all of the 
improvements. In politics, Republican. In religion, Lutheran. His wife, Bell Peter- 
son, was born in Norway, in 1824, and came to America in 1859; married in 1852, 
and they have had six children — Mary, now Mrs. Heyday, in Dixon Co. Neb. ; Peter, 
born in Norway ; Charlie, Julius, Morris and Addie, at home. 

ROAN JOHNSON, farmer, Sec. 4; P. O. Dakota; born in Center Co., in 
1818 ; came to Illinois in 1850 ; bought 160 acres of land, and now owns 430, and has 
made the improvements. In religion, Presbyterian, and Trustee of church. In poli- 
tics, Liberal. His wife, Elizabeth Keil, was born in Pennsylvania in 1814; married 
in 1847, and have had one child — Mary Elizabeth, at home ; they have an adopted 
son — George Kramer, taken at the age of 2 weeks. The first lumber he used in 
repaiiing the old log house was brought from Mount Carroll, through the sloughs, taking 
one week for a trip. 



764 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

JOHN M. KAUFMAN, cooper, Davis ; born in Baden Baden, Germany, in 
1823; came to America in 1846, to New York, then to Canada a short time, 
then to Cincinnati, Ohio, there about four years ; then to Stephenson Co., in 1852, 
August, and worked at the carpenter trade, and in 1 862 began coopering ; has an 
extensive business in the manufacture of butter tubs ; owns town property, and made 
the improvements, which are fine. In politics, Republican. In religion, Evangelical. 
His wife, Catharine Andres, was born in Hesse-Darmstadt, in 1843 ; married in 1863; 
have had five children — George Henry, in the shop ; Annie, at home ; Lena, at home ; 
Edmond, at home ; John, at home. 

JACOB KEEHEN, farmer, Sec. 10; P. 0. Rock City; bora in Prussia 
in 1830; came to America in 1853. to Illinois, and worked on the railroad ; bought 40 
acres of land, and now owns 75 ; made most of the improvements. In politics. Demo- 
crat. In religion, Catholic. His wife, Ellen Wertz, was born in Germany, Prussia, 
in 1841 ; married in 1859, Oct. 13, and have had five children — John, Mary, Barbara, 
Lizzie, and Barbara, deceased. 

CHARLES H. KL.IPPING, miller; P. 0. Davis; firm of Slagle & 
Klippmg, Rock Run Mills; born in Florence Township, Stephenson Co., 111., in 1856; 
worked on the farm about eight months and then learned the milling business in this 
mill ; rented the mill and doing a fine business. In politics, Republican ; in religion, 
Evangelical. 

CONRAD KNOUP, farmer, Sec. 23 ; P. O. Davis ; born in Stephenson Co., 
111. ; owns 80 acres of land. In politics, Republican ; in religion, Liberal. His wife, 
Catherine Miller, was born in New York, in 1851, and married in 1871. Have had 
three children — Henry Edward, Doretta and Lizzie May. 

HELLECK KNUDSON, farmer, Sec. 23 ; P. O. Davis ; born in Norway ; 
came to America in 1839, and remained in Chicago until July, 1841, when he came to 
Rock Run and remained about five months, and then went to Mineral Point, Wis., and 
served an apprenticeship as a harness-maker there about two years, and then came back 
to Rock Run and worked on the farm with his brother and mother ; he and his brother 
Thurston made the improvements on the 126# acres of land which now belong to 
Hellick, and he also owns 284f acres of land ; the barn on the place is 36x50 ; good 
stone house and windmill. Has been Trustee, School Director and Pathmaster three 
different times. His wife, Caren Harrison, born in Norway, in 1826 ; married in 1855 ; 
died in 1856; second wife, Carrie Larson, born in Norway, in 1836 ; married February, 
1860, and they have had seven children — Aneken Carine, born Oct. 1, 1860 ; Alice 
Lorine, born Jan. 14, 1862 ; Carrie Marie, born Jan. 16, 1864; Annie Christina, born 
Aug. 21, 1865; Knut Oscar, born April 13, 1867— died Oct. 6, 1867; Knut Oscar, 
born Oct. 4, 1868; Lars William, born Sept. 27, 1878— died Jan. 13, 1880. 

THURSTON KNUDSON, farmer, Sec. 13 ; P. O. Davis ; born in Norway, 
in 1825; came to America in 1842 ; to Iowa in 1842, with his fiither and mother ; his father 
died on Lake Michigan and was buried in Milwaukee, in 1842; his mother bought a 
claim of 160 acres and made the improvements ; his mother died Feb. 3, 1880 ; Thurston 
now owns 1983, and 20 acres of timber, in Winnebago Co. ; he is now building a large 
barn 40x64 and eighteen-foot posts, with bank stabling, raised June 23, 1880. In 
politics, Republican ; in religion, Lutheran. Has been School Director and Path- 
master. His wife, Jane Ann Alara, was born in Norway, in 1840 ; came to America 
in 1853; married in 1857, Dec. 15; died May 8, 1875, and left nine children — Caro- 
line, at home ; Johanna Malinda, Mary Ann, Nellie Cerinda, Charles Oscar, John 
Cornelius, Emma Louisa, Helen Sophia and Nels Wilhiem. 

M. W. KURTZ, general merchandise, Davis ; born in Lancaster Co., Penn., 
in 1837 ; came to Illinois in 1869, and engaged in the mercantile business ; owns town 
property. In religion, Lutheran ; in politics, Republican. Has been Town Trustee for five 
years, and School Director. His wife, Kate Markel, was born in Lancaster Co.. Penn., in 
1849 ; married in 1862, and have had seven children — Rolland, Howard M., Lilly, Bertha, 
Levi, died in Pennsylvania in 1864 ; Stella, Martin, Jr. 



ROCK RUN TOWNSHIP. 765 

D. O. LASHELL, of the firm of Young & Lashell, general merchants, 
Rock City; born in Loran, Stephenson Co., in 1849 ; his wife, Mary Rayner, born in 
Stephenson Co. in 1850 ; married in 1876, and have two children — Robert Alfred and 
George. Has been Town Collector; is now Secretary of the Rock Run Insurance 
Company, and School Treasurer. 

J. LAUEK, farmer, Sec. 30; P. O. Dakota; born Oct. 15, 1809, in Penn- 
sylvania; came to Illinois in 1845 ; bought 133 acres and made the improvements ; has 
also 87 acres in Dakota Township. Has been Pathmaster. In politics, Democrat; 
in religion Lutheran. First wife was Rebecca Sullivan, born Oct. 25, 1815, in York 
Co., Penn.; was married Aug. 16, 1834; died in 1849, aged 33 years 9 months and 
21 days, and left eight children — Sarah Ann, deceased ; Jacob, in Rock Run Township ; 
William, deceased ; Rebecca, now Mrs. Kline, in Kansas ; John Andrew, in Hardin Co., 
Iowa , Peter Henry, in Illinois; George Samuel, deceased ; David Silivan. Second wife 
was born in Schuylkill Co., Penn., April 24, 1831 ; married in 1851, and have had ten 
children — Catherine, Elisabeth, now Mrs. Cross, in Davis; Joseph William, at home; 
Martin Luther, at home; Moses E., deceased; Stephen A. Douglas, deceased; Edwin 
Deitz, Aaron Washington, Annie Mary, Leonard Marion, Martha Jane. 

S. B. LEACH, farmer, Sec. 12 ; P. 0. Pecatonica ; born in Maine, in 1845 ; 
came to Illinois in 1868. from New York City, where he had been to work for the Harlem 
Railroad ; then went to Nora, 111., and engaged with his brother in the carriage business ; 
then to Winnebago Co., and bought a farm of 80 acres, and this he traded for property 
in Rockford, 111., and went to work for the Rockford Water Power Company, and then 
to Pecatonica in the carriage business; from there to Stephenson Co., and bought 100 
acres and made most of the improvements, and is now in Chicago to work for the 
Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad, as master mechanic. In politics, Republican ; 
in religion, Free Methodist. He took the first locomotive into Western Texas, set it 
up and ran it. First wife, Fannie Dean, deceased, was born in Maine, and they had 
one child, William, now in Chicago, foreman in Hayes & Prentice's, corner of Canal and 
Washington streets. Second wife, Harriet M. Westfall, was born in New Jersey, in 
1829; married March 31, 1853, and have eight children — Henry, deceased; Garfield, 
deceased ; Walter H., Porter F., Eveline W., Frank B., Fred B., deceased, and Richard C. 

C. P. LEY, farmer, Sec. 9 ; P. O. Dakota; was born in Warren Co., Ohio, in 
1856, and came to Illinois in 1869, and bought 200 acres. In religion, Presbyterian ; 
in politics, Republican. F. C. Ley was born in Warren Co., Ohio, in 1849 ; came to 
Illinois in 1869, and bought, in company with his brother, 200 acres; they have a fine 
spring of water and a fine stream, which makes a fine stock-farm ; the place was 
bought from Zimmerman, one of the old settlers of the county. 

CHARLES J. LILJEQOST, painter, Davis; born in Sweden in 
1841 ; came to America, in 1865 ; to Rockford, Winnebago Co., in 1866 ; then went to 
Mississippi and Tennessee ; then returned to Rockford, and then to Davis in 1868 ; 
owns town property. First wife, Agner C. Lindebled, was born in Sweden, in 1842 ; 
married in 1866, and had one child, Agnes C. ; wife died in 1867. Second wife, Sarah 
Regies, was born in Pennsylvania, in 1846; married in 1869, and had four children — 
Annie May, Clara A., Ada Adella, John Alfred. 

JOHN LONGr, restaurant and grocer, Davis ; born in Buffalo, N. Y., in 
1843; came to Stephenson Co. in 1846, with his father, who bought a farm, and also 
owns town property. Enlisted in 26th I. V. I., in 1861, and remained until 1864. In 
politics, Republican ; in religion, Evangelical; one of the Trustees of Davis. His wife, 
Mary Alberstedt, was born in Germany in 1845; married in 1868, and had one child 
— Cora Adella. 

R. J. LONCjt, dealer in furniture and burial cases; born in Bavaria in 1839; 
came to America in 1852, to Pennsylvania; in the fall of 1852, to Stephenson Co. At 
the breaking-out of the rebellion, he was in the regular army, stationed at Fort Leaven- 
worth, Kan. ; mustered out and enlisted in the 46th I. V. [., September, 1861 ; dis- 
charged September, 1864 ; was in all the engagements from Donelson down the Mis- 
sissippi ; received commission in United States Regular Army as Lieutenant. Owns 



766 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

town property ; is a carpenter by trade. His wife, Miss Mary Kaller, was born in Ger- 
many in 1849 ; came to America in 1852 ; married in 1865, and have three children 
— Jennie V., Elnora and Adella. 

HENRY MAEIR, farmer, Sec. 15 ; P. 0. Davis ; born in Germany in 1820 ; 
came to America in 1847. and bought 180 acres of land ; made the improvements ; also 
owns 30 acres of timber. His wife, Barbara Weber, was born in France in 1830; 
came to America with her parents; she married in 1848, and have eleven children — 
Henry, Matilda, now Mrs. Runta, in Iowa ; Fredrick, John, Herman, Mary, Martha, 
Sophia, Louisa, Daniel and Wilhelm. 

WILLIAM MYERS, farmer, Sec. 9 ; P. O. Ridott ; born in Germany in 
1830; came to America in 1850, to Oneida Co., and remained about five years, and 
then came to Stephenson Co., at Freeport, in the railroad shops, and then, about nine- 
teen years ago, came to this place and bought 40 acres of land, and made the improve- 
ments; now owns 285 acres, aud a fine house, and other good improvements. Was in 
the army in the old country. In politics, Democrat ; in religion, Catholic. Has been 
Pathmaster. His wife, Mary Terney, was born in Ireland, in 1835 ; came to America 
in 1845; married in 1855 ; have had four children — Henry, Ida, Clara, Annie. 

WILLIAM S. WEIL, farmer, Sec. 7; P. O. Dakota; born in Center Co., 
Penn., in 18^1 ; came to Illinois in 1855 ; bought 71 acres; in 1859, 35 acres more, 
and this spring bought 35 acres more, and made all the improvements ; built a barn 
40x36, with windmill, wagon-shed, 30x24 ; fine house. In politics, Democrat ; in 
religion, Presbyterian. His wife, Jane Colgan, was born in Ireland in 1824; married 
in 1845 ; died in 1864, and have four children living; second wife, sister of Sarah 
Colgan, was born in Ireland in 1832 ; married in 1875 ; children by first wife — Will- 
iam, in Doniphan Co., Kan.; Isabel! Smith, now Mrs. Neal ; John S. and Mary E., 
twins. 

ALEXANDER NIBLO, farmer, Sec. 14; P. O. Pecatonica; born in 
Glasgow, Scotland, in 1815; came to America in 1820, and to Stephenson Co. in an 
early day ; he owns 160 acres, and made the improvements ; only 25 acres of the place 
were under the plow; now has 100 or over cultivated. His wife, Emily Amelia Nay, 
was born in Scotland March 17, 1839, and have had ten children, four living — Maggie 
A., Thomas R., George S. and Abraham; John James was drowned in Rock Run, in 
sight of the house, while in bathing, June 25, 1869 ; when they first came to Illinois, 
they lived in the house in which the first white man lived with his squaw ; his name 
was Americag Mack. 

S. OLSON, farmer, Sec. 26; P.O. Davis; born in Norway in 1822; came 
to America in 1842, and worked for Mr. Marsh, in Stephenson Co., and worked here 
and there for about two years, then entered 40 acres of land, and now owns 233 acres, 
and has made fine improvements ; there is a fine stream on the land. Was Pathmaster 
twenty years ago. In politics, Republican ; in religion, Lutheran. His wife, Jane 
Kundson, was born in Norway in 1817 ; came to America in 1843 ; married in 1845, 
and have six children, two living — Isabell and Ola; Knud, deceased; Sarah, deceased ; 
Knud, deceased ; Knud, deceased ; wife died April 24, 1856 ; second wife, Isabel Crer- 
son, was born in Norway, in 1830; came to America in 1854; married in 1857, and 
have eleven children — Jane, born in 1857, died in 1858 ; Ezra, born in 1858, died Oct. 
25, 1858; Jane, born in 1860, died in 1860; John, born in 1861, died in 1861; 
John, born in 1862, died in 1862 ; Georgiana, born in 1864, died in 1864 ; Isabell, born 
in 1866, died in 1866; Ira, born in 1867; John, born in 1870, died in 1870; John 
and Johnnie, born in 1873; John died in 1873. 

JACOB ORTH, general stock, Davis; born in Hesse Darmstadt, Erich, 
Germany, Nov. 3, 1840 ; left there and came to Illinois in 1852, and settled in Rock 
Grove on 200 acres of his father's land, who died June 9, 1869, aged 69 ; his mother 
is still on the old homestead ; Jacob engaged in the brick business in Eplay Ann for 
three years. His wife, Elizabeth Wilkey, was born in Wisconsin, in 1845, and married 
Nov. 20, 1862, and then worked the farm for three years, and in the fall of 1866, came 



ROCK RUN TOWNSHIP. 767 

to Davis and engaged in the present business, under the firm name of Smith & Orth ; 
Smith remained one year and a half, when his brother bought him out, and the brother 
remained ten years, when Jacob bought out his brother. Have had six children — Ella 
M., the eldest daughter, was born in Rock Run, Stephenson Co., Sept. 7, 1863, and 
died Jan. 15, 1880, at the residence of Rev. H. Huetsler, of Naperville, 111., aged 16 
years 4 months and 8 days, while attending the Northwestern College ; Ella was con- 
verted under the labors of Rev. W. H. Bucks, during a revival at Davis; her remains 
were brought home on the evening of the 15th, and on Saturday, the 17th, the funeral 
services were held in the Evangelical Church ; services by Rev. W. H. Bucks, of Free- 
port, he taking the text from Matt, ix, 24 ; Nettie Laura, fourth child, was born at the 
village of Davis, and died Feb. 27, 1880, age 9 years 11 months 22 days ; during her 
last sickness she requested that something be sung, and, when several stanzas of " I 
will sing you a song," "We're going home to-morrow," "Sweet Bye-and-bye," v and 
" We shall gather at the river " were sung, she tried to sing too ; but faint sounds 
could be heard, but they were from the heart and soul ; she expressed a willingness to 
depart and be with Jesus and her sister Ella; Clara J., at home; Malinda, at home; 
Irene May, at home ; Arthur J., at home. 

PETER ROW, farmer, Sec. 8 ; P. 0. Ridott ; born in Bethlehem, N. Y., 
in 1814 ; came to Illinois in 1838, and took up a claim of 160 acres, and now owns 
200 acres ; made all of the improvements ; is paying considerable attention to the rais- 
ing of bees. In politics, Republican: in religion, Liberal. 

CHRISTOPHER SCHLEITER, farmer, Sec. 10 ; P. O. Davis ; born 
in Germany in 1820; came to America in 1857, and came direct to this place, and 
bought 86 acres of land ; made all the improvements, and owns now 361 acres of land. 
His wife, Minnie Maeir, was born in Germany, in 1821 ; came to America in 1847, and 
have four children — Christopher, in Rock Grove Township ; Henry, at home ; Louisa, 
now Mrs. Nedemier ; Hannah, at home. In politics, Democrat ; in religion, Evan- 
gelical. 

HENRY SCHLEITER, farmer, Sec. 10 ; P. O. Davis ; born in Germany 
in 1827 ; came to America in 1848 ; came to Illinois in 1848 ; bought and now owns 
140 acres of land ; made good improvements. His wife, Elizabeth Schrader, was born 
in Germany in 1828; came to America in 1828; married iu 1850; have had nine 
children — Frederick, Mary, Martha, David, Elizabeth, deceased; Louisa, deceased; 
Henry, deceased; Daniel, John, deceased. In politics, Republican; in religion, Evan- 
gelical. 

JACOB SLACwLE, miller ; P.O.Davis; born in Northumberland, Co., Penn., 
in 1825; came to Stephenson Co. in 1865; bought 160 acres of land, and now owns 
96 acres of land, including the mill known as the Rock Run Mill, situated on the 
Rock Run, half way between Rock City and Davis, doing a fine business; this mill was 
built, in 1854, by Catherine Epley, now residing in Missouri. His wife, Catherine 
Guist, was born in Pennsylvania in 1840 ; married in 1860, and have three children — 
Laura Alice, born Feb. 20, 1862— died Feb. 25, 1876; Dora Hester, born July 6, 
1876 ; Walter Grant, born Nov. 12, 1872. In politics, Republican ; in religion, Liberal. 
Enlisted in the Pennsylvania Battalion, June, 1864, and served six months. 

D. B. SNIV ELY, farmer, Sees. 14 and 15; P.O. Ridott; born in Franklin Co., 
Penn., in 1828 ; came to Illinois in 1865, to Adams Co., and to Stephenson Co. in 1869 ; 
bought 120 acres of land and now owns a saw-mill, known as the Rock Run Saw-mill ; 
it wus bought from John Josler ; built fourteen years ago. In politics, Republican; in 
religion, Liberal. His wife, Elizabeth C. Layman, was born in Franklin Co., Penn., in 
1834; married in 1852; have had four children — Benjamin, Henry. Albert, William. 

SAMUEL, STRONG, farmer, Sec. 15; P. O. Ridott; born in Center Co., 
Penn., in 1828 ; came to Illinois in 1839 ; bought 45 acres of land in Eleroy Township ; 
sold and came to Rock Run and bought 40 acres in Rock Run Township, SO in Ridott 
Township, and has made the improvement ; has a stream of water and good mill. In 
politics, Democrat; in religion, Free Methodist. His wife, Phebe Gillman, was born in 
Union Co., Penn., in 1820 ; came to Illinois in 1840 ; they were married in the fall of 



768 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

1840, and have eight children — William, in Ridott ; Esther, now Mrs. Willits, in Lena; 
Charles Edward, in Stephenson Co.; Oscar, at home; Matilda, now Mrs. Westimer ; 
Emma ; two infants deceased. Has run a thrashing machine for the last thirty-five 
years, and is still ready for the business of 1880. 

S. W. TALLMA1V, editor Davis Review ; born in New York in 1852, Jan. 
12; came t~> Illinois in 1878, Jan. 18, and engaged in the Review, at Davis, 111. 

WILLIAM TEMPLETON, farmer, Sec. 31; P. 0. Dakota; bom in 
Union Co., Penn.. in 1839 ; came to Illinois in 1844 with his parents, and they bought 
a claim of 160 acres, and made most of the improvements on the place ; has a barn 36x67, 
with good bank stable, good spring of water, and in all a fine stock-farm ; his father 
died several years ago. William is a Republican in principle, and, in religion, United 
Presbyterian. His wife, Amanda Frantz, was born in Center Co., Penn., in 1842; 
married in 1869, and have had four children — Annie P., Samuel P., Willie and an 
infant. 

JOHN WEBER, farmer, Sec. 14; P. 0. Davis; born in France in 1833; 
came to America in 1838, with his parents, and they settled in New York, and remained 
about two years, then came to Wisconsin, and then, in November, 1844, came to Ste- 
phenson Co. and entered 160 acres, and made the improvements; he bought 80 acres 
of land, and paid about $600 ; on this place he made all the improvements, and has a 
fine stone house and large barn ; now owns 237 acres of land, with good improvements. 
His wife, Mary J. Walker, was born in Center Co., Penn. ; came West at the age of 
17 ; was married in 1856, and have eleven children — Ellen, now Mrs. Mathews, in 
Iowa; Emma, Greorge Franklin, Malinda M., Rosa, Clara, John H., Alice, Nettie, 
Charles, Lora. In politics, Democrat ; in religion, liberal. Has been Pathmaster, 
Trustee and Justice of the Peace. 

JOSEPH A. WEIR, farmer, Sec. 29; P. O. Rock City; born in Berks 
Co., Penn., in 1835; came to Illinois in the winter of 1855-56, and then returned to 
Pennsylvania, and then, in 1857, returned to Stephenson County; bought 40 acres of 
land, and now owns 151 acres, and has made all the improvements from the wild land. 
In politics, Republican ; in religion, Methodist Episcopal. His wife, Elizabeth Stew- 
art, was born in Freeport, 111., in 1840, and married in 1862; have had eight children 
— William S., Jennie, deceased; Joseph R., Charles Colfax, James H., Maggie Eliza- 
beth, Henry Kucher, Greorge A., deceased. Alexander McKenny, an uncle of his, 
came to this county from the Galena lead mines, with Mr. Carnefix, in the year 1836. 

MICHAEL WOLF, deceased ; he was born in Pennsylvania in 1824; 
came to Illinois at an early day, and entered 40 acres, and at his death, owned 470 acres, 
and 160 in Nebraska; made the improvements on the first 40 acres. In politics, was 
Republican ; in religion, Liberal. Died May 7, 1880, after a short sickness. His 
wife, Hettie Cable, was born in Pennsylvania, in 18J9; married Feb. 19, 1856, and 
have had twelve children — Emma Alice, now Mrs. Foundray, in Indiana ; Mary, now 
Mrs. Claws, in Rock Run; William, Charles, David, Thomas, Stephen, Newton, Susan, 
James ; Franklin J. and Jacob, deceased. 

PETER WOLE, farmer, Sec. 4; P. O. Dakota; born in Center ,Co., Peun., 
in 1830; came to Illinois in 1855; bought 153 acres; now owns 40 acres in Sec. 32 
and 40 in Sec. 28 ; made all the improvements. In politics, Republican ; in religion, 
Methodist Episcopal, and a Trustee of Berlin church. Has been Assessor, Town Col- 
lector and Road Commissioner; is School Trustee. His wife, Elisabeth Rowray, was 
born in Union Co., Penn., in 1829; married in 1848, and have had twelve children — 
George William, in Rock Run Township; John P. at home; James F., at home; 
Kate, now Mrs. Tate, in Buckeye ; Lizzie, at home ; Ellen, at home ; Frank, at home ; 
Sally, at home ; Eddie, at home ; Volney Orin : M iry, deceased ; Charles, deceased. 



DAKOTA TOWNSHIP. 769 



DAKOTA TOWNSHIP. 

LUTHER ANGLE, farmer, Sec. 27 ; P. 0. Dakota ; born in Stephenson 
Co. in 1847 ; his father, John B. Angle, came to this county in 1844 ; the subject of 
this sketch has always been a resident of the county, though a considerable portion of 
the time temporarily absent. During the civil war he was a soldier in Co. Gr, 46th 
I. V. I., participating with his command in all its engagements during his term 
of service; honorably mustered out at the close of the war, he reached home 
in February, 1866 ; he was then three years in school at Mt. Morris, 111., and at Mad- 
ison, Wis., devoting his time especially to the acquisition of a thorough knowledge of 
the branches most closely identified with his chosen profession, that of farming. Since 
leaving school has been engaged in farming; has 120 acres of land in Dakota Town- 
ship, and his wife has 84 acres in Buckeye Township, inherited from her father's estate. 
Mr. A. is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and of the Republican party. 
He was married, in 1870, to Miss Sophia Clingman, daughter of Josiah Clingman ; 
their children are Fred C, Harvey Jason and Mary Octava. Mr. Angle's family are 
•deserving of mention as among the earliest settlers in the county ; her parents, Josiah 
and Maria Clingman, came to Stephenson Co. in the spring of 1837, made their per- 
manent home at the place of their first settlement, a mile north of Cedarville ; the father 
died March 28, 1865, aged 57 years ; the mother, aged 71, is yet living in Cedarville; 
their children were George W., deceased ; Mary, now Mrs. Lutts, of Missouri ; Chester, 
deceased ; Eliza A., Thomas S., deceased; Jason, Wm. M., Edwin, deceased ; Sophia, 
now Mrs. Luther Angle, and Ethel B. ; the son Thomas S., deceased, was a Corporal of 
Co. A, 46th I. V. I.; wounded at the battle of Shiloh, x\pril 6, 1862; he 
was sent two or three weeks afterward from the field hospital to the hospital at Quincy, 
111., from there was brought home in July, and died in consequence of his wounds, on 
the 4th of August, 1862. As evidence of their patriotic devotion to the cause of the 
Union may be here mentioned the fact that, in the same company with Thomas S. 
Clingman, were six others of the same name, a brother and five cousins. 

A. M. ARTLEY, proprietor hotel, Dakota ; was born in Lycoming Co., 
Penn., Aug. 23, 1845 ; came to Stephenson Co., 111., with his father, Daniel Artley, 
and family, in 1856 ; had been engaged in farming, dealing in produce, etc., previously 
to his occupancy of the hotel, which has been under his proprietorship since March, 
1879, and he still carries on some farming in connection with his other business; he 
keeps a comfortable, well-arranged and desirable hotel, owns some property in Dakota, 
attends carefully to his business, and is thoroughly respected by all who know him. 
During the civil war, he was for two years a soldier in Co. K, 46th I. V. I., par- 
ticipating in the battles of Ft. Blakely, Spanish Fort, etc., beiug mustered out with his 
command at the close of the war, which ended these years of faithful service. 

WILLIAM ASKEY, druggist, Dakota ; born in Center Co., Penn., May 
1, 1837 ; came to Stephenson Co., 111., in 1849; he has an extensive and somewhat 
varied experience in professional and business pursuits ; for the years 1865-67 and 
1872-73, he was connected as teacher with Cole's Commercial College, in Peoria ; in 
the interval between the dates above given, he was agent and operator on the Chicago 
& Alton Railroad ; in the spring of 1873, he engaged in his present business in Dakota ; 
has been located here since, and is thoroughly identified with the town, his business, 
property and home all being here. He was married in 1861, to Miss Elizabeth 
Brenizer, a native of Wooster, Ohio ; their children are Ella, Jennie, Mary and Bertha. 

W. R. AUMAX, grain-dealer, Dakota ; born in Center Co., Penn., June 
25, 1831; at the age of 8, came with his parents to Stephenson Co., 111., in 1839, 
locating first in Lancaster Township, between Freeport and Cedarville ; Mr. A. was 
employed in farming up to 1865; for the last fifteen years has been engaged in the 
grain trade in Dakota ; has some property in the town ; has been Town Clerk for the 
last ten years ; has held other town and school offices, and *is a good worker for the 



770 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

interests of his community. Politics, Republican. He was married, in 1855, to Miss 
Susan Lattig, daughter of George W. Lattig, an old and honored citizen of Lancaster 
Township; their children are Howard, Horace, Elwin, Orrin and Perry, deceased. 

D. B. BOBB, physician, Dakota; born in Pennsylvania, June 1, 1837; 
came to Stephenson Co., 111., with his parents in 1845 ; studied his profession first wiih 
Dr. Hayes, then of Buena Vista, now of Freeport, afterward with Dr. Alexander Fisher, 
of Chicago; graduated at Chicago Medical College, theu Linn University, in 186-1; 
before his graduation, had been in the practice for a year at " Bobtown," or New Penn- 
sylvania, and, after graduating, practiced for some six months in the same place ; he 
was then located for two and a half years at " Graball," or Jamestown ; he removed to 
Dakota in the spring of 1867, where he has since resided, and has built up a fine prac- 
ftce, his practice having extended over this territory before his removal here ; he has 
been in professional life in the same field for the past sixteen years. Religion, Meth- 
odist ; politics, Republican. He was married in 1860, to Miss Arminda F. St. John ; 
they have two children living — Eugene Lafayette and Dwight ; three deceased — Bylord, 
Quincy and Pardie. Dr. B.'s father, David Bobb, still lives in Buckeye Township, is 
over 67 years old, a much-esteemed citizen, and has materially aided the march of 
improvement since the time (thirty-five years ago) when he came to the county ; the 
trip from Pennsylvania here was made in company with several families, comprising 
over forty persons in all, and the journey (made in wagons) occupied some six weeks' 
time. Mrs. Dr. B. is a daughter of Andrew St. John, who came here in 1836, and 
still lives in Buckeye Township at the advanced age of 72 years ; his father, Andrew 
St. John, was an early trader in the Cahokia region, near St. Louis, when all that 
country was under French control ; he removed here at a later date, and died in Buck- 
eye Township, April 8, 18-49, aged 103 years ; his father, also named Andrew St. John, 
a soldier of the Colonial period, fell in the war of the Revolution, while doing duty as 
a patriot under the command of La Fayette. 

JOHN BROWN, farmer, Dakota; born in Pennsylvania June 30,1811; 
the family moved to Belmont Co., Ohio, when he was quite young ; lived there until 
1 828, when they removed to Vermilion Co., 111. ; during their first summer in Ver- 
milion Co., his father, John Brown, aged 62, was killed by a fall from a horse ; the 
family were left in rather straitened circumstauces ; but, the boys working out by the 
month, and the whole family being industrious and economical, the little farm then in 
their possession was improved and yielded them a living ; in the spring ot 1835, Mr. 
Brown came to Stephenson Co., there being then but one family resident in Freeport ; after 
making a claim here, building a house and establishing his mother in the dwelling, he 
went back to Vermilion, and remained there four years, after which he returned here 
for a permanent home ; lived some time near where Squire W. B. Mitchell now lives ; 
then for a winter in Cornelius Furst's house, north of Ridott ; during that winter he 
built, about two miles southeast of where he now lives, a house, 14 J feet square ; 
moved into this house the following May ; in this house, to which some additions were 
subsequently made, he lived until 1867, when he removed to his present residence ; in 
eompany with Col. Dornblaser, he built the first warehouse in Dakota ; completed and 
grain stored there before the track was laid to the warehouse ; for many years after 
coming to the county, he was engaged iu breaking prairie in connection with farming; 
alter the railroad came here, he was, for about a dozen years engaged in buying and 
selling grain, hogs, cattle, etc. (part of the time in company with George Bordner, of 
Freeport), for several years of the time doing more stock-buying than all the other 
dealers in the place ; for the past three years has devoted his attention exclusively to 
farming; he has 435 acres of land in Rock Run Township, 80 acres in Lancaster, 160 
acres in Dakota and 25 acres in Ridott; during the Black Hawk war, he was a soldier in 
Capt. James Palmer's company, Col. Moore's regiment. He has been Supervisor of his 
township, and has held various school and township offices. Religion, Methodist ; 
politics, Republican. He was married, in 1833, to Miss Mary A. Hickman, a worthy, 
intelligent and energetic lady; she was a native of Brown Co., Ohio, removing with 
her parents to Vermillion Co., 111., when in her 16th year; her parents, Jacob and 



DAKOTA TOWNSHIP. 771 

Sarah Hickman, continued to reside in Vermillion Co. until their death. Jane Brown, 
mother of the subject of this sketch, died in 1854, aged about 65 years. Mr. and Mrs. 
Brown's children are Clark J., Sarah J., Mary A. (Mrs. F. B. Walker), Martha B., 
John H., Angeline V. (Mrs. H. Milligan), James C., Vincent D., Allen H., Florence 
V. and Caroline (died at the age of four). 

L.E VI CANDY, farmer, Sec. 1 ; P. 0. Bock Grove ; born in Center Co., Penn., 
Dec. 20, 1812; removed to Stephenson Co., 111., in 1864; has a farm of 120 acres at 
his home location, with 10 acres of timber-land in Bock Grove Township ; his farm is 
under good cultivation, and his home surroundings decidedly pleasant. His religious 
preferences are with the German Beformed Church ; his political affiliations, with the 
Democratic party. He was married in March, 1837, to Miss Catharine Emrich, a 
native of the same neighborhood in Center Co., Penn. ; their children are Ann Maria, 
now Mrs. George Long, of Bock Grove; Sarah, now Mrs. Uriah Swartz, of Bock 
Grove, and John A. 

J. CLINGMAN, farmer, Sec. 23; P. 0. Dakota; the subject of this sketch, 
a son of Josiah Clingman, deceased, was born in Stephenson Co., Oct. 27, 1843; has 
been a continuous resident of the county, except during the civil war, when he was, 
for nearly three years, a soldier; enlisted in July, 1861, in Co. A, 11th I. V. I. ; was 
taken prisoner at Ft. Donelson, and for eight months was in rebel prisons, at Macon, 
Bichmond, Montgomery and other points within the Confederacy ; when exchanged, he 
rejoined his regiment, and did service there until he was promoted to First Lieutenant 
in the 55th U. S. I. ; finally resigned on account of disability ; since the war he has 
been engaged in farming; his farm comprises 160 acres. He is a member of the 
Bepublican party; is School Director in his district. In 1865, he married Miss Mary 
E. Smith, a native of Pennsylvania, but resident in Stephenson Co. since an early age ; 
their children are Elfrida, Jennie and Bobert. 

HARRISON DIEJIER, farmer, Sec. 27 ; P. O. Dakota ; born in North- 
ampton Co., Penn., Oct. 18, 1828 ; came to Stephenson Co., 111., with his parents, in 
1847 ; has devoted his attention to agricultural pursuits, except two years (from the fall 
of 1854 to the fall of 1856), during which time he was engaged in mercantile business 
in Cedarville ; he was the first supervisor for his township, after Dakota Township was 
detached from Buckeye, for seventeen or eighteen years a School Director, and has held 
other local offices. He is a worthy member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, an 1 of the 
Bepublican party ; has a magnificent home farm of 280 acres, besides 12 acres of tim- 
ber-land, in Bidott Township ; all his possessions are the result of his own exertions, 
aided by the happy selection of a good location. He was married Nov. 6, 1852, to Miss 
Ann B. Etmyre ; she was born in Washington Co., Md., April 2, 1836 ; came to Ogle 
Co., 111., with her parents, in 1838 ; her father and mother thereafter resided in Ogle 
Co. ; her father, Henry Etmyre, died in 1842 ; her mother, Sarah Etmyre, died in Feb- 
ruary, 1861. Mr. D.'s parents, Michael and Susan Diemer, were permanently in 
Stephenson Co. from 1847 ; his mother died in 1853, aged 54 ; his father lived in 
Cedarville the last eighteen or twenty years of his life ; he died there March 29, 1878, 
aged 73 years, having been for over fortv years a member of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. Mr. and Mrs. Diemer have lived in their present location since 1856, have 
planned and executed the improvements on the farm, and the large, conveniently arranged 
and shade-embowered house, with its tasteful profusion of luxuriant flowers, shows, in all 
its appointments, a cultivated taste and careful hands ; they have two children — Luther 
M. and Walter W. 

JACOB DUBS, farmer, Sec. 3; P. 0. Bock Grove ; born in Germany Jan. 
29, 1848 ; in 1852, his parents, Jacob and Henrietta Dubs, emigrated to America with 
their family ; the mother died on the journey, and the father, with his two sons, Budolph 
and Jacob, settled in Stephenson Co. in the year above named ; the father died Feb. 28, 
1877, aged nearly 66 years ; the brother, Budolph, of Cleveland, Ohio, is a Bishop of 
the Evangelical Church, and travels over much of the United States in the interests of 
the church. Jacob, whose name heads this sketch, has devoted his attention chiefly to 



772 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

agricultural pursuits ; his farm embraces 85 acres of land, well improved, nicely situated 
and under good cultivation. Religion, Evangelical Church. 

WILLIAM E. ILGEN, farmer, Sec. 35 ; P. 0. Dakota ; born in Center 
(afterward called Clinton) Co., Penn., Aug. 27, 1822; in 1842, he came to Stephen- 
son Co., 111., with his father, George Ilgen ; worked on the farm with his father for 
eight years after coming here, but since his marriage has been farming for himself; has 
a farm of 80 acres. Is a member of the Lutheran Church ; was a Democrat until the 
breaking-out of the civil war ; since then he has been a Republican. In 185(1, he mar- 
ried Miss Elizabeth A. Kaley; she was born in Union Co., Penn., Jan. 15, 1832; their 
children are Mary, Barbara Ann, Elizabeth (deceased), Sarah, Robert, Martin Luther, 
Normanda, George Emanuel (deceased), John Kassinas, Martha Ellen, William Grant 
(deceased), Americus Lincoln, Oscar Franklin, Caroline and Daniel Webster. Mrs. 
Ilgen came to Stephenson Co. in 1849, with her parents, Solomon and Elizabeth Kaley ; 
her father died in 1866, aged 68 years ; her mo' her, aged 80, is yet living near Buena 
Vista. The subject of this sketch has seen most of the growth of this locality of Illi- 
nois ; made the first track from his father's house to Cedarville during the deep snow 
of 1842, when the grist-mills at Cedarville were inaccessible, the corn was dried in the 
stove, ground in the coffee-mill, and in this tedious method the meal was prepared ; their 
wheat for the market had for a long time to be hauled to Chicago, 120 miles, by wagon, 
and sold for 35 cents a bushel. Contrasts between then and now are vividly present in 
the minds of the old settlers. 

JOHN KRYDER, retired farmer ; P. 0. Dakota ; born in Center Co., Penn. r 
Jan. 16, 1797 ; resided there until 1847, when he removed to Stephenson Co., 111. ; bought 
and improved large tracts of land, which he afterward apportioned among his children, 
so that they are all comfortably provided for ; retired from active work some thirty years 
ago, and, so far as bodily infirmities now permit his attending to business, his attention 
is given to managing his property and financial investments ; he is invariably spoken of 
as a kind-hearted, useful man, ever ready to assist those who need help. Religion, 
Lutheran ; politics, Democratic. He was married, in 1820, to Miss Susannah Keene, 
of Center Co., Penn. ; she died in 1863 ; they had eight children, six of whom are now 
living — William, David, Jacob, Andrew J., Sarah J. (now Mrs. Martin S. Lapp) and 
Joseph ; two deceased — Henry H. and Samuel M. The second son above named, David 
Kryder, with whom the father makes his home, was born in Center Co., Penn., Feb. 
28, 1823, and came to Stephenson Co., 111., with his parents, in 1847. Ts a member of 
the Reformed Church, and of the Democratic party. Was married, in 1846, to Miss 
Sarah Smull, who was born in Center Co., Penn., Feb. 1, 1822 ; their only child, Sam- 
uel J., died in 1864. 

MARTIN S. LAPP, farmer, Sec. 35 ; P. O. Dakota ; born near Black 
Rock Ferry, Bertie Co., Upper Canada, Dec. 26, 1826 ; in 1841, came to Ogle Co., 111.; 
thence, after a year's residence, came to Stephenson Co. in 1842 ; has a fine 80-acre 
farm, with a good residence and other buildings. His religious preferences are with the 
German Baptist Church; his politics, Democratic. He was married, in 1849, to Miss 
Sarah J. Kryder, daughter of John Kryder, an old and honored citizen of Dakota Town- 
ship ; Their children are William Henry, Abram C, Lydia Ann (now Mrs. W. H. 
Miller), Mary Elizabeth (now Mrs. George W. Lilley), John Samuel, Susannah 
(deceased), Sarah Jane (deceased), Saloma Agnes, Jacob D.. Hattie Viola, Isaac Edward 
and Maudie May. 

WILLIAM McELHINEY, farmer, Sec. 11 ; P. 0. Rock Grove; born 
in Center Co. Penn., Dec. 26, 1820 ; his parents, with the family, left Pennsylvania in 
November, 1829, and came West, getting into Illinois some little time before Christmas 
of that } T ear ; first settled in Edgar Co., lived there for several years, removing to Ste- 
phenson Co., in June, 1837 ; Mr. McE's. parents, John B. and Mary McElhiney, were 
well known as among the earliest settlers in their locality; the father died in 1872, aged 
about 81 years ; the mother, 89 years of age, is yet living, making her home with her son 
William, the subject of this sketch ; Mr. McElhiney's life-vocation has been, as is at 



DAKOTA TOWNSHIP. • 773 

present, that of farming; his farm embraces 80 acres ; has been School Director in his 
District, but has no desire for office-holding. Politics, Democratic. 

WILLIAM McELHOfEY, farmer, Sec. 36; P. 0. Dakota; born in 
Stephenson Co., Nov. 5, 1839 ; is a son of James McElhiney, an old settler and well- 
known citizen, now a resident in Rock Run Township. The subject of this sketch was, 
during the civil war, a soldier in Co. B, 46th I. V. I.; was engaged in the battles of Ft. 
Donelson, Pittsburg Landing, etc.; was honorably discharged after the battle of Shiloh. 
on account of disability, contracted in the line of his duty as a soldier ; since the war, 
has been engaged in farming; has 80 acres of land, and his wife owns 150 acres 
both tracts located in Dakota Township. He is a member of the United Pres- 
byterian Church, and of the Republican party. He was married in 1864 to Miss 
Mary S. Templeton, a native of New Berlin, Union Co., Penn. ; their children are 
— Arthur T., Alberto Edwin, Ralph Alexander, Guy Willie and Pearley James 
Aiken ; since their marriage they have lived eight years, 1867 to 1875, at Cleve- 
land, Bradley Co., Tenu., returning here in 1875. Mrs. McElhiney is a daughter of 
Samuel and Mary Templeton, who were quite early settlers in Stephenson Co. ; their 
children were — James A., Alexander, of Cleveland, Tenn. ; David H., deceased ; Walker 
and Mary S., Mrs. William McElhiney; David H., deceased, was a soldier in Co. D, 
93d I. V. I. ; he died of disease, in the fall of 1862, at the residence of his brother 
Alexander, who then lived in Dakota Township. 

KEYES S. MARLIN, physician, Dakota; born in Lebanon Co., Penn., 
Dec. 25, 1833 ; lived most of his early life in Schuylkill Co. ; studied his profession and 
attended lectures in Philadelphia, graduating at the Pennsylvania Medical College in 
1854, at the age of 21 ; after being some little time in practice at Tuscarora, Penn., he 
came West and located at Rock Grove, Stephenson Co., 111., in 1856; after about a 
year there, went to Iowa, and. when the war broke out, entered the service as Assistant 
Surgeon of the 20th Iowa V. I., and was in the service of the medical department for 
nearly five years, having there a wide range of service and of practice ; was the greater 
portion of the time on detached service with different commands ; while with Gen. Fre- 
mont, was the First Surgeon of McClurg's command ; at a later date attended Batteries 
B, D and E, Mo. Artillery and a battery of heavy artillery, at Ft. Brown, and the 
last year of service was with the 37th I. V. I.. After the war was over, located in Dakota, 
and has a generous share of practice in his field of professional labor. His wife, Mrs. 
Caroline Wolf, nee Bordner, is a daughter of Jacob Bordner, an old settler and well- 
known citizen of Stephenson Co. ; they have two children — Joan Alice and Francis 
Gurney. 

ROBERT F. MITCHELL., farmer, Sec. 11 ; P. O. Dakota; born in 
Pennsylvania, in the part of Center Co. that is now Clinton Co., June 11, 1824 ; came 
to Stephenson Co., 111., in 1842; lived first at Buena Vista for six months, and then 
moved to the Miller farm, near Freeport, where he lived until 1864, when he moved to 
his present location. He was married May 28, 1843, to Miss Zero Ohcks, also a native 
of Pennsylvania; their children are Permila, Reuben R., Joseph Q., Charles E., 
George W. and James M.. Mr. Mitchell's farm embraces 120 acres, well located, in 
good condition and nicely improved. He is a member of the Republican party ; has held 
township offices, and is thoroughly respected by all who know him. Aided by a worthy 
wife, good children, and intelligent industry, he is in quite comfortable circumstances ; 
worth several dollars "less than nothing" when he came to the county, his example is 
worth noting, in illustration of what may be done by one who is willing to industriously 
sue his powers for good purposes. 

SAMUEL R. MOYER, teacher, Sec. 10 ; P. O. Fountain Creek ; born in 
Stephenson Co. Sept. 12, 1854; his parents, George and Mary Caroline Moyer, were old 
settlers here, coming here from Pennsylvania about 1851; both died some eighteen or 
nineteen years ago, the father aged about 38 years, the mother about 36 years ; the subject 
of this sketch, after some preliminary study in the common schools, attended school, 
first at Naperville, 111. ; was one year there ; afterward attended at Valparaiso, Ind. ; was 
in attendance there for a year; closed his school attendance in 1876 ; had been teaching 



774 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

in alternation with attending school, before this time, and, since that date, has been 
engaged in the schools of the county ; has been teaching, at least a portion of the time, 
every year siuce 1874. 

ROBERT NELSON, farmer, Sec. 27 ; P. 0. Dakota; born in the north 
part of Irelaud Jan. 8, 1829 ; emigrated to America, and settled in Stephenson Co., 
111., in 1844, in company with his parents, John and Mary Nelson; his father died in 1877 ; 
his mother is y t living ; he has been chiefly engaged in farming ; for about three years, 
from 1857 to 1860, he was traveling, principally in Kansas and Missouri ; he has 100 
acres of land in Dakota Township ; in company with his brother, has 20 acres of tim- 
ber-land in Richland, and besides this, he has a considerable quantity of land in Kansas ; 
has held school offices for many years. Religion, Presbyterian ; politics, Democrat. He 
was married in 1861, to Miss Elizabeth Wilson, who is a native of the same locality in 
Ireland that he is from. Their children living are Andrew, John, James, William. 
Samuel, Thomas, Robert, Sarah Ann and Mary Eliza ; one other child, Robert, 
deceased. 

SAMUEL OTTO, farmer, Sec. 36; P. O. Dakota; born in Pennsylvania 
in the year 1824 ; came with his parents to Ohio, in 1838, and from there, seven years 
later, to Stephenson Co., 111., in November, 1845. His father, Daniel Otto, was killed 
by a railroad accident, June 25, 1860 ; his mother, Mary M. Otto, died in 1862. In 
1848, he married Miss Ann Catharine Ilgen, also a native of Pennsylvania, and the 
daughter of George and Maria Ilgen; their children are — William H. (deceas d), 
George D., Mary C. (deceased), Benjamin Franklin (deceased), and John D. Mr. 
Otto's farm embraces 96 acres, in a verv fine location. He is a member of the Method- 
ist Episcopal Church ; has b^en School Director and Constable for almost eighteen 
years ; being here so early he has seen many changes in the country since his coming ; 
he assisted in the survey of Cedarville when that town was laid out, and has seen most 
of the rise, growth and progress of his own town of Dakota. 

S. P. ROTE, merchant; Dakota; born in Clinton Co., Penn., Sept. 4, 1837 ; 
came to Stephenson Co. in 1855 ; in the fall of 1857, he went to Green Co., Wis., and 
was there five years, though part of this time, at intervals, was in Stephenson Co. ; most 
of these years he worked at the carpenter trade ; returning here, he afterward bought a 
farm in the northeast part of Lancaster Township, and gave his attention to farming 
from the fall of 1867 to the fall of 1872 ; he then engaged in well-drilling and setting 
up pumps, which business he pursued until the fall of 1878 ; since that time he has 
been engaged in mercantile pursuits ; his landed possessions embrace 136 acres in Lan- 
caster, Riilott and Kockf Run Townships, and he has, besides, some considerable property 
in Dakota. Religion, Methodist; politics, Republican. He was married in the spring 
of 1867, to Miss Rebecca J. Brown, daughter of William Brown, an old, well-kn >wn 
and much esteemed citizen of Lancaster Township, who settled here about 1845. Mr. 
and Mrs. Rote have an only son, a bright-eyed boy, named Willie. 

B. SCIOIELTZER, retired, Dakota; born in Lycoming Co., Penn., March 
13, 1828 ; when 3 years of age, removed with his parents to Center Co., which was 
thereafter his home until his removal to Illinois ; about 1850, he made a trip of a year's 
duration through Illinois and Iowa; removed to Stephenson Co., 111., in 1866 ; was for 
a long time largely engaged in stock-buying, etc., and for several years also engaged in 
mercantile business in Dakota ; his working habits, the result of lon^ years of continu- 
ous activity, cause him to still keep moving in the management of his farms, etc., 
although he has retired from active business ; he has 60 acres in his home farm, and 80 
acres in another location, all, however, in Dakota Township ; both farms are in excel- 
lent condition, and show the results of careful tillage. In politics, he is Democratic. In 
1855, he was married to Miss Mary Hoy, also a native of Pennsylvania. 

J. D. SCHHELTZER, grain dealer, Dakota; born in Center Co., Penn., 
March 4, 1823; removed to Stephenson Co., 111., in January, 1854, having been with 
his family in Muscatine Co., Iowa, for a few months preceding this ; has been engaged in 
grain-buying for the last twenty years; before this was in mercantile business in Rock 
Grove ; was also Postmaster of that place, holding his appointment to the position from 



DAKOTA TOWNSHIP. 775 

President Pierce ; his property and business interests are in Dakota, and he takes a 
lively interest in promoting the welfare of the place. Politics, Democratic. In 1852, he 
married Miss Anna M. Mingle, also a native of Center Co., Penn. ; their children are 
Thomas, George (deceased), Henry. John and Alice. 

•I OHX S. SMITH, grain, stock and lumber dealer, Dakota ; born in 
Franklin Co., Penn., April 4, 1808; removed to Ohio in 1840, and from there, after 
a four-years' residence, came to Stephenson Co., 111., in the fall of 1844 ; was employed 
in agricultural pursuits until about 1868 or 1869, when he retired from farming; was 
not, thereafter, in active business, until some four years ago, when he engaged in the 
lumber trade, which he has since carried on in connection with occasional dealing in 
grain, stock, etc. ; has 330 acres of land in Lancaster and Ridott Townships, beside 
some town property, etc. ; has held school offices. Is a member of the Lutheran Church, 
and is politically affiliated with the Democratic party. He was married in 1835 to 
Miss Catharine Frazier, a native of Somerset Co., Penn.; their chiildren are James 
(deceased), William, Lizzie, Orlando, John, Franklin, Annie and Ellen (deceased). 

MICHAEL D. STACK, retired, Dakota ; born in Ireland, in 1809 ; 
emigrated to America in 1847 ; after a brief stay in Montreal, Canada, he came into 
Vermont, where he remained about two years, and then removed to Ohio ; lived in 
that State four years ; from Ohio he removed to Indiana, in which State he resided four 
years, removing to Stephenson Co., 111., in 1857; was employed in railroading from 
1847 to 1857, and worked on track repairs on the railroad here for several years after 
the completion of the road ; has not been in any active business since 1865 ; he is the 
present President of the Board of Village Trustees, and held the same position during 
two previous terms, in 1855 and 1856 ; was also Street Commissioner for two years ; has 
six lots and a house in Dakota, and is comfortably circumstanced. Religion, Catholic ; 
politics, Democrat. In 1843, he married Miss Mary Denaan, also a native of Ireland ; 
she died in 1863 ; his children are John, Margaret, Robert Michael and Ellen Mary. 

JAMES A. TEMPLETON, farmer, Sec. 25 ; P. 0. Dakota ; born in 
Union Co., Penn.. July 2, 1828 ; came to Stephenson Co. in 1849, with his parents, 
Samuel P. and Mary Templeton, known by a large number of people in the county ; his 
parents were beloved for many estimable qualities, by all their acquaintances ; his 
mother died in 1858; his father in April, 1879; Mr. T. has been chiefly engaged 
in farming, though for six years engaged at the same time in mercantile business in 
Dakota ; he was for several years Supervisor for his township ; has held various town- 
ship and school offices, and is, in all good enterprises, one of the leading men of his 
community. Religion, United Presbyterian ; politics, Republican. His farm embraces 
165 acres in Dakota and Rock Run Townships. He was married, Dec. 26, 1854, to 
Miss Jennie W. Curran, a native of Juniata Co., Penn.; their children, living, are 
Mary J., Annie E. J., Laura Luella, Samuel H., Oscar J., Lizzie J. and Walker W.; 
those deceased are Willie, Harvey, and one who died in infancy. 

WALKER TEMPLETON, farmer, Sec. 36 ; P. O. Dakota ; born in 
Union Co., Penn., Feb. 14, 1839 ; with his parents, Samuel and Mary Templeton, 
came to Stephenson Co., 111., in the spring of 1849 ; during the civil war, he was a 
non-commissioned officer of Co. D, 93d I. V. I., of the 15th Army Corps ; most of 
the time he was one of the sergeants of the color-guard, and consequently saw the 
liveliest portion of the battles through which the flag of his regiment was carried in 
the numerous engagements in which it bore a gallant part ; among these conflicts may 
be mentioned Champion Hill, siege of Vicksburg, Altoona Pass, Missionary Ridge, etc., 
etc.; he was discharged, at the close of the war, at Louisville, Ky., and has since been 
engaged in farming ; has 120 acres of land in Dakota Township and 20 acres of timber 
land in Ridott Township. Is a member of the United Presbyterian Church ; polit- 
ically, is affiliated with the Republican party. In 1872, he married Miss Elizabeth 
Bragg, a native of England ; in her childhood she came to America with her parents ; 
her parents, Wm. M. and Margaret Bragg, first settled in Iowa, and afterward removed 
to Kansas, where they now reside. Mr. and Mrs. Templeton have one child, Will- 
iam S. 



776 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

It. M. TEJLEER, railroad agent, Dakota ; born in Hamilton, Scotland, Jan. 
9, 1850 ; in the same year the family emigrated to America, and settled in Racine, 
Wis., where his parents still continue to reside ; Mr. Telfer has been chiefly employed in 
railroad business ; for the last fifteen years has been in the employ of the Chicago, Mil- 
waukee & St. Paul R. R. Co. ; four years of that time he was in Racine, Wis., four 
years in Savannah, and for the last seven years, as railroad and express agent and tele- 
graph operator at his present location. Politics, Republican. He was married in 1870 
to Miss Flora Wallace, who was born in Muscatine Co., Iowa, Sept. 22, 1851, but has, 
for the most of her life, been a resident of Ielinois ; their children are Jennie, Belle, 
Fred and Flora. Mr. Telfer's parents are David and Mary Telfer, of Racine, Wis. ; his 
grandparents, Archibald and Jennie Telfer, also came to Racine in 1850 ; they afterward 
removed to Elkhorn, Wis., and died there at a good old age ; Mrs. Telfer's father, 
Alexander Wallace, came to this country, from his native place in Scotland, at an early 
period in the history of the West; was chiefly engaged as a practical river-man, in 
steamboat enterprises on the Mississippi River, until nearly the time of his death, which 
occurred in 1852. His wife, Sarah Wallace (now Mrs. Needer, by a second marriage), 
is yet living in Clinton, Iowa. 

COL. GEORUE WALKER, retired farmer; P. 0. Dakota; born in 
Center (afterward Clinton) Co., Penn., April 17, 1809 ; removed to Stephenson Co., 
111., in 1849 ; the trip from Pennsylvania here was made by wagon, five weeks being occu- 
pied in the journey, reaching here on the 24th of October, of the year above named ; 
his vocation has been farming since 1836 ; this was varied by official business, etc., but 
his active spirit has made for him a constantly busy life ; he was Auditor of Clinton Co., 
Penn., for a term, and another term, Commissioner of the same county, and has held 
various local offices since his residence here ; he has quite an extended military experi- 
ence, having been, under the militia system of Pennsylvania, five years a Lieutenant, 
seven years a Captain, and seven years a Lieut. Colonel ; the last three years of the 
time was an aid to Gov. Francis R. Shunk, of Pennsylvania ; his property here embraces 
180 acres of land, a block in the east part of Dakota, four lots in his residence property, 
etc. Religion, Lutheran ; politics, Democratic. He was married in 1836 to Miss Mary 
Gamble, also a native of what is now Clinton Co., Penn. ; their children are James 
W., Franklin B., Mary C, John S., Nancy E., Amanda J., Emma (deceased) and 
George V. 

F. B. WALKER, farmer, Sec. 34 ; P. O. Dakota ; born in Pennsylvania in 
1840 ; came to Stephenson Co. with his father, Col. George Walker, in 1849 ; has been 
continually engaged in farming enterprises, and pushes his business forward to intelli- 
gent success ; is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and of the Republican 
party ; is now, and has been for the past six years, a member of the County Board of 
Supervisors, and is highly spoken of throughout his township. He was married Nov. 
15, 1871, to Miss Martha Brown, daughter of John Brown, of Dakota; their children 
are Saidie Edna (deceased), Harry A. and Iva V. 

O. D. WEAVER, farmer, Sec. 35 ; P. O. Dakota ; born in Cumberland Co., 
Penn., Oct. 16, 1825 ; came to Stephenson Co., 111., in the fall of 1845 ; the three pre- 
vious years, 1842 to 1845, he had lived in Ohio ; in 1852, he went to California; was 
engaged in mining there for three years ; returning here in 1855, when the railroad was 
built here, he completed the portion of it from Davis to the section west of Dakota, under 
the direction of the company ; was employed in railroading until 1858 or 1859, since 
which time he has been chiefly engaged in farming, his farm comprising 80 acres ; has 
been Collector of his township, Commissioner of Highways, etc. Religion, Methodist 
Episcopal; politics, Republican. He was married, in 1846, to Miss Henrietta Ilgen ; 
their children are Sultan Armenium, Gustavus Adolphus, Myrrah P., George I., Ones- 
imus Daniel, Henrietta Prudence, Laura Eldora aud Lila Minerva. The family is quite 
noted for musical ability, and for range of voice, culture and ability of execution with 
different musical instruments, is seldom equaled. The subject of this sketch is the only 
one living out of all his father's family, which consisted of eight children, viz., Theo- 
philus J., Elizabeth, Titicum D., Onesimus D., Catharine, Asaph J., Charlotte A. and 



DAKOTA TOWNSHIP. 777 

Michael. The father of this family, Michael Weaver, was born April 10, 1796 ; died 
of cholera in New Orleans in September, 1832 ; his wife, whose maiden name was Char- 
lotte Krill, was born Feb. 27, 1802, and died June 15, 1831. A generation farther 
back, the parents were Philip Weaver and Elizabeth Weaver ; her maiden name was 
Elizabeth Hyde ; she was a daughter of Abram Hyde, and was born in 1762 ; was mar- 
ried to Philip Weaver in 1785. Mrs. Henrietta Weaver is a daughter of George Ilgen, 
who laid out the town of Cedarville ; he died July 12, 1864; his father, William Eman- 
uel Ilgen, came to America during the Revolutionary war, and finally became a Lutheran 
minister in Pennsylvania, and was much beloved by all his people. 

CHARLES WILSON, farmer, Sec. 27 ; P. 0. Dakota ; born in the 
North of Ireland, in the year 1825 ; when he was only a year old, his parents emigrated 
to America, and settled in Washington Co., Penn.; in 1852, he came to Stephenson Co., 
111.; has a neat farm of 160 acres, well located and under good cultivation. In 1853, 
he was married to Miss Mary Wilson, a native of the same neighborhood in Ire- 
land ; they have four children — Jane (now Mrs. Thomas Crow), Annie, Andrew and 
Moses. 

JOHN WINTERS, farmer, Sec. 26 ; P. 0. Dakota ; born in Center Co., 
Penn., March 11, 1839 ; when he was 6 years of age, his parents removed with their 
family to Ohio, and, in 1857, came from there to Stephenson Co., Ill , and settled in 
Lancaster Township; his father, Abram Winters, died in 1868; his mother, Sarah 
Winters (sister of Robert and Thomas Bell), died in 1866. He was married, in 1870, 
to Miss Mary Wright, daughter of Paschal and Jane Wright (both deceased), who came 
here from Pennsylvania about 1840, settled in Harlem Township, and lived there until 
their death ; they have two children — Jennie Winters and Bessie Winters. Mr. W. has 
a farm of 120 acres in Dakota Township, and 6 acres in Ridott Township; he has held 
township offices. Is a Republican ; is not connected with any church, though his wife is 
a member of the Presbyterian. 

JOHN WIRTH, farmer, Sec. 34 ; P. O. Dakota ; born in Wittenberg, Ger- 
many, Sept. 5, 1826 ; emigrated to America in 1852 ; lived for two years in New York, 
removing to Stephenson Co., 111., in April, 1854 ; with characteristic industry and thrift, has 
acquired quite a handsome property ; has 200 acres of land in Dakota Township, 
besides 30 acres of timber land in Buckeye and Lancaster Townships. Is a member of 
the Lutheran Church, and of the Democratic party. His wife's maiden name was 
Catharine Haist ; she was born in Erie Co., N. Y. ; their children are John Jacob, 
Mary Helena, George Adam, Willie Andrew (deceased), Eva Louisa, Henry Tobias, 
Annie Julia and Catharine Rosena. 

SOLOMON WISE, farmer, Sec. 1 ; P. O. Rock Grove; born in Union 
Co., Penn., August 5, 1832; lived there until he was about 21 years of age, coming to 
Stephenson Co., 111., in the winter of 1853; has pursued the vocation of farming as his 
constant business ; has a good farm of 80 acres. His politics, Republican. He was 
married in 1860, to Miss Mary Alexander; she was born in Big Valley, Penn., March 
29, 1833 ; they have four children living — Sarah, Harrison, Percival and Catharine ; 
three children deceased — Jane, James, and one who died in infancy. 

J. R. YOLNCjt, merchant, Dakota ; the subject of this sketph, who is a son of 
Capt. William Young, an old settler and well-known citizen of the county, was born in 
Stephenson Co., Dec. 24, 1849, and, except the two years 1873 and 1874, which were 
spent in Iowa, has been a constant resident of the county ; has been engaged in mer- 
cantile pursuits since 1873; before that time was employed in farming; has a well- 
stocked, tastefully arranged and prosperous store ; has been Postmaster of Dakota ever 
since his coming to the place, in 1875, and is well identified with the best interests of 
his town. Politics, Republican. He was married in December, 1873, to Miss Olive 
Rodearmel, daughter of Henry Rodearmel, of Freeport ; Mr. and Mrs. Young have 
three children — Harry, Anna and Edna. 

DANIEL ZOI9IER9IAN, farmer, Sec. 26; P. O. Dakota; born in 
Lycoming Co., Penn., Jan. 27, 1819; removed to Stephenson Co., 111., in the fall of 



778 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

1846 ; has a fine farm of 200 acres, under good cultivation, with neat, roomy and con- 
venient buildings, etc. Has held school offices in his township. Ts a member of the 
Reformed Church. In politics, is Democratic. He was married, in 1843, to Miss Har- 
riet Phifley, a native of Wittenberg, Germany; she was born Jan. 24, 1821 ; came to 
America when 11 years of age; died Aug. 24, 1874 ; the children are Christiana, now 
Mrs. L. H. Weaver, of Montgomery Co., Iowa; Daniel M. ; John F., of Montgomery 
Co., Iowa; Catharine Elizabeth, now Mrs. Wilson T. Walker, and William Emanuel. 



RIDOTT TOWNSHIP. 

Q. S. BABCOCK, general stock, of the firm of Babcock Bros., Ridott ; born 
in Ridott in 1852, and engaged in farming on the home farm ; his father and mother 
deceased; they came to this county in 1836 ; G. S. came to town in the fall of 1878, 
and engaged in the present business ; his wife, J. L. Goodwill, was born in Canada in 
1855, and came to America in 1861. Married in 1872, and have three children — 
Clyde L., born Oct. 9, 1873; Mitta born September, 1875; Floyd, born April 13, 
1878 ; owns town property ; proprietor of city hall, and owns 300 acres of land in Sec. 
34. In politics, Republican ; in religion, a Liberal. 

MICHAEL BARBELL, farmer, Sec. 5 ; P. 0. Ridott ; born in Alsace, 
France, in 1821 ; came to America in 1841, first to Long Island, and remained until 
1845, then came to Stephenson Co., 111., and entered 80 acres of land, on which he 
made the improvements, and now owns 120 acres, and 12 acres of timber. His wife, 
Margaret Koppes, was born in Renbier, Germany, in 1832; came to America in 1850. 
Married in 1850, and have had seven children — Michael, born March 16, 1852, and in 
Ridott; Caroline, born May 15, 1854, and now Mrs. Maks, in Ackley, Iowa; Hattie, 
born June 3, 1856, now Mrs. Baughenbaugh, in Rock Run; Elizabeth, born Aug. 10, 
1858, at home ; William, born Jan. 16, 1861 ; Charles Henry, born March 16, 1863 ; 
Paulina, born Aug. 10, 1865, died April 21, 1876. In politics, Republican ; in relig- 
ion, Evangelical. Has been School Director three times. 

IJLRICH BOOiHGAARDEN, farmer, Sec. 30; P. O. Ridott; born in 
Hanover, in 1827 ; came to America in 1850, to New York City, then to Chicago, 
then to Stephenson Co. ; his father bought half a section of land and made the improve- 
ments ; worked on the farm with his father, then in 1859, went to California and 
remained one year and a half, then returned to Chicago and enlisted in the 24th I. 
V. I., in 1861. mustered out in 1864 ; in 1874, his father died and left him 132 acres 
of land, on which he has built a barn, 54x24, with cattle shed, 14x54. His wife, Annie 
DeVries, born in Germany in 1842. Married in 1868, and have had eight children, 
— infant, deceased, Peter, Luppe, deceased, Ippe, Ulrich, Tette, deceased, Tuppe. Tette. 
In politics, Republican; religion, Liberal. 

HENRY BORCHERS, dealer in general merchandise, Ridott ; born in 
Hanover, Germany, in 1835 ; came to America in 1852, and engaged in farming; owns 
133 J acres of land in Sec. 19, and he improved the place ; left the farm in 1873, and 
moved to Ridott and engaged in business. His wife, Henrietta Boomgarden, was born 
in Hanover in 1832 ; married in 1863 ; she died in 1864, and left one child — Henrietta. 
Second wife was Eliza Rehbock, born in Hanover in 1839 : married in 1869, and have 
four children — Fritz, Henry, Charlie, Herman. In politics, Republican ; in religion, 
Reformed Evangelical. Has been collector of town. 

DANIEL BRICK, farmer, Sec. 19; P. O. Ridott; born in Germany in 
1827 ; came to America in 1814 ; was in Chicago about two years and a half, then in 
Freeport about five years, and now owns 65 acres of land and made the improvements. 
His wife, Annie Antes, was born in Berien in 1840, and came to America in 1814; 
they were married in 1856 and have twelve children — Annie C, Peter, Elizabeth, Tina, 
Louisa, Lewie, Daniel, John, Henry, George, Samuel, Kittie, Rebecca. In politics, 
Democrat ; in religion, Presbyterian. 



RIDOTT TOWNSHIP. 779 

HENRY BRICK, farmer, Sec. 30 ; P. 0. Ridott ; born in Germany in 
1836 ; came to America in 1844, and came to Illinois and remained two years in Chi- 
cago, then to Freeport four years, then to Ridott, and owns 74£ acres of land and made 
the improvements. His wife, Louisa Neimer, was born in Prussia in 1846, and mar- 
ried in 1868 and have had three children — Willie, Emma and Henry. In politics 
Democrat ; in religion, Evangelical. He enlisted in the 44th I. V. I., Co. D, in 1864 ; 
mustered out in 1865 ; in the battles of Nashville, Franklin and Columbia, Tenn. His 
father was 87 years old when he died. 

WILLIAM W. BROWN, farmer, Sec. 34; P. 0. Ridott; born in Ste- 
phenson Co., 111., in 1842, and lived with his parents, and now owns 120 acres of land 
and has made part of the improvements. His wife, Mattie Sabin, was born in Winne- 
bago Co. in 1861 ; they were married in 1880. In politics, Republican ; religion, Lib- 
eral. Has been Pathmaster ; enlisted in the 46th I. V. I. in 1862 ; discharged in Feb- 
ruary, 1865. His father was born in Ireland in 1812 ; came to Illinois in 1824. His 
mother, Lydia Hatch, was born in New York in 1813; died in 1875. 

REV. S. C BULKELEY, farmer, Sec. 33; P. 0. Ridott; born in Col- 
chester, Conn., in 1810, and came to Illinois in 1856, and was engaged in preaching ; 
organized a church at Wheaton, 111., and assisted in the building of a meeting-house in 
1862, and has also preached at Pecatonica ; Universalist denomination; now engaged 
in farming and owns 160 acres of land. His first wife was Henrietta T. Andrews, born 
in Bethel, Conn., May 28, 1817 ; married Jan. 27, 1837 ; died June 2, 1853, and left 
three sons — Horatio and Oliver, in Texas, and Daniel, printer, in Chicago. His sec- 
ond wife, Hannah C. Andrews, born at Danbury, Conn., Feb. 6, 1827, and married 
Oct. 30, 1853; died, at Wheaton, 111., Jan. 12, 1863, and had one child— Walter B., 
born at Danbury, Conn., April 10, 1855, died Sept. 9, 1855. James C. Cole was 
born in St. John, N. B., Feb. 21, 1818; married to Sophrona Judd in 1842; died 
Nov. 19, 1862, and had two children — Walter G-. and George J. Mr. B.'s third wife 
was Mrs. James C. Cole, born in New York in 1827 ; came to Illinois abo*ut 1838, and 
married Oct. 3, 1864. In politics, Democrat; in religion, Universalist. During the 
war, he was instrumental in raising the 13th 111. Regiment, 12th Cavalry, Col. Farns- 
worth, and 105th I. V. L, Lieut. Col. Vallett, and Gov. Beveridge was the first Colonel. 

SETH CABLE, farmer, Sec. 35 ; P. O. Ridott ; born in Knox Co., Ohio, 
in 1839 ; he came to Illinois in 1844, and has 200 acres of land ; his wife, Emeline 
Gibler, was born in Knox Co., Ohio, in 1850. Married, Jan. 15, 1868, and have two 
children— Ira W., born Nov. 2, 1868 ; Ida Elizabeth, born Nov. 18, 1873. In 
politics, he is a Republican, and in religion Liberal. He has been Pathmaster. He 
enlisted in the fall of 1861, in the 46th I. V. I., Co. G, and was mustered out in 1866 ; 
was engaged at Fort Donelson, Pittsburg Landing, Vicksburg, Jackson and Mobile. 

ASA CARY, farmer, Sec. 35; P. O. Ridott; born in New York in 1822. 
and came to Illinois in 1852 ; he bought 160 acres of land and made the improve- 
ments : this was in Silver Creek ; he sold this place and came to Ridott, and now owns 
215 acres of land, and has made the improvements; his wife, Laura A. Rice, was born 
in Boston, Erie Co.. N.Y., in 1832. Married, in 1849, and have had seven children — 
Howard A., in Cerro Gordo Co., Iowa; Minnie E., now Mrs. Colby, at Baileyville ; 
Lillian G., Adda L. Merton E., William Wilber and Mary A. In politics, a Repub- 
lican ; in religion, Liberal. He has been School Director. 

CHRISTIAN CLAY, farmer, Sec. 6 ; P. O. Freeport ; born in Stark Co., 
Ohio, in 1816 ; came to Illinois in 1839, and bought a claim of 80 acres of land and 
made all the improvements on the place — a fine barn, 36x70, with 16-foot posts, as also 
a fine brick house, and things in good repair ; his wife, Mariah Youter. was born in 
Wayne Co., Ohio, in 1828. Was married in 1847 ; they had eleven children — Laura, 
Matilda, now Mrs. William Geear, in Cass Co., Iowa, born June 17, 1846 ; Phillip 
Bena, born Dec. 20, 184 *», died in 1850 ; George Washington, born Aug. 20, 1849 ; 
Caroline, Oct. 11, 1851 ; Christina, Dec. 16, 1853, died March 25, 1875; Alexander, 
born Jan. 6, 1856; Ellen Nora, March 23, 1858; John Lenord, Aug. 17,1860; 
Emma Jane, Oct. 9, 1862 ; William James, Sept. 9, 1866 ; Cora Adellia, born August 



780 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

25. and died Nov. 10, 1869. tn politics, a Democrat ; in religion, Liberal. He has 
been School Director. 

FOLKERT CRULE, farmer, Sec. 21; P. 0. Ridott; born in Germany 
in 1839, and came to America in 1861 ; he settled in Ogle Co. for four years, then 
came to Stephenson Co. and bought, and now owns 160 acres of well-improved land ; his 
wife, Margaret Serifine, was born in Germany in 1851. They were married in 1867, 
and have had four children — Tillie, John, Fannie and Janie. He has been Post- 
master. In politics, Republican ; in religion, Liberal. 

H. H. DEGrROAT, farmer, Sec. 32 ; P. 0. Baileyville ; born in Germany 
in 1814 ; came to America in 18J2; and bought and now owns 80 acres of land ; was 
in the army in the old country. His wife, Geiskle Denebrook, was born in Hanover in 
1818 ; they were married in 1838, and have eleven children — Christina (now in Ogle 
Co., 111.), Rechord (now Mrs. Williams), Foskeain (in Baileyville), Hamka, John (in 
Dakota), Ockel (at home), Rista (deceased), Resend (deceased) and three who died in 
infancy. In religion, Dutch Reformed. 

JACOB DIEHL, farmer, Sec. 26 ; P. O. Ridott ; born in Germany in 1824 ; 
came to America in 1847, and remained in New York until October, then went to Penn- 
sylvania, remained until 1850, and then came to Ogle Co., 111.; remained seven years, 
then came to Stephenson Co., and bought 160 acres of land, and improved that, and 
now owns 320, and has improved that with a fine house, large barn and outbuildings. 
His wife, Margaret Freeling, was born in Hanover in 1820 ; she came to America in 1850, 
and married in 1851 ; they have had two children — Margaret (now Mrs. Munns, residing 
on 160 acres of her father's land in Sec. 19) and Mina (now Mrs. Tillie Wessels, of 
Ridott). In politics, Democrat ; religion, Liberal. Has been Pathmaster. 

ADAM FISHER, farmer, Sec. 15; P. O. Ridott; born in Bavaria in 
1845, and came to America in 1858 ; bought 95 acres of land, partly improved ; has a 
barn, 32x40, 18-foot corners, a good house, and everything in good repair. His wife, 
Margaret Klever, was born in Stephenson Co. in 1854, and was married in 1872; they 
have had three children — Jacob (born in 1873, died in 1874), Lizzie (born in 1875, 
died in 1879) and Margaret (born in 1878). In politics, Democrat ; in religion, Pres- 
byterian. Has been Pathmaster. 

L-UTHER S. FREEMAN, fanner, Sees. 26and27; P.O. Pecatonica ;> born 
Wyoming Co., N. Y., in 1833 ; came to Illinois in 1863, and bought from the Chicago 
& North- Western Railway Co. 153, now 178, acres of land, and made all the improve- 
ments of a good house, barn and other buildings. His wife, Miss L. A. Wetmcre, was 
born in Cattarraugus Co., N. Y., in 1836 ; they were married in 1861, and have six 
children — Kate, A.llen, Henry, Nellie, Lawrence and Nelson. In politics, Republican ; 
in religion, Liberal ; has been Pathmaster. 

H. FRYEINCjtS, farmer, Section 30 ; P. O. Ridott ; born in Hanover, in 
1815 ; came to America in 1850, bought 120 acres of land and sold 40 to his brother- 
iu-law ; has a fine spring of water on the place. Never been married ; his sister keeps 
house for him. In politics, Republican ; in religion, Dutch Reform ; has been Path- 
master. 

BEARND GROENEVEED, fanner, Sec. 30; P.O. Ridott; born in 
Hanover in 1829 ; came to America in 1852; bought 80 acres of land, and made the 
improvements ; now owns 154 acres, and has fine house, barn, corn-cribs, wagon-shed 
and wind-mill. His wife, Tjake Fuls, was born in Hanover in 1831, and came to 
America in 1853 ; they were married in 1856, and have had three children — Tjabe, 
born June 18, 1858, died Dec. 15, 1860 ; John, born July 10, 1860 ; Jane, Feb. 13, 
1863, died Aug. 9, 1873. Has been School Director four years. On this place stands 
the old church, built in an early day and used by the Dutch Reformed. 

PHILO HAMMOND, deceased; born in Vermont in 1811 ; went to 
Hamburg, N. Y., then to Chicago, in one year; then to Stephenson Co. in 1837, 
and settled in Silver Creek; then, in 1848, came to Ridott, and entered land; 
has now 320 acres of land, with good improvements. Died April 5, 1877. His 



RIDOTT TOWNSHIP. 781 

wife, Esther Farwell, was born in Orleans Co., N. Y., in 1819 ; came to Illinois 
in 1839 ; they were married in 1840, and have had five children — William, born 
July 25, 1841, now in Howard Co., Towa ; Marvin, born in Silver Creek July 29, 
1842, now farming the place in company with his mother ; his wife, Addie L. Rublee, 
was born in Franklin Co., Vt., in 1853, and were married fall of 1879. In religion, 
Liberal ; in politics, Republican; has been Pathmaster and is School Director for 1880. 
Enlisted in 1863 in the 46th I. V. I., Co. D; mustered out in 1866. Eliza, born Oct. 
14, 1845, and was Mrs. Bride, died July 22, 1873 ; Luke B., born Aug. 5, 1851, is at 
home ; Ira, born May 2, 1855. 

JOHN HEEREN, farmer, Sec. 30 ; P. 0. Ridott ; born in Aswaisraland, 
Germany, in 1814; came to America in 1849, in the fall, to Stephenson Co., and bought 
a half-section ; made the improvements ; now owns 113 acres of land ; also stone quarry 
on the place ; his wife, Annie Wirmier, was born in Hanover, in 1813 ; married, in 1838, 
and has had nine children — William, born Feb. 22, 1839, died 1842 ; Foskea, born in 
Sept. 16, 1840; now Mrs. Sweeden, in Valley Co., Neb.; Gseskeiraa, born May 7, 
1842, died in 1866; she was Mrs. Krouse ; William, born Sept. 1, 1844, in Han- 
over; his wife, Adalaide Boomgaarden, born in Silver Creek Township, April 11, 
1858; married April 4, 1878; enlisted Sept. 10, 1861, in 46th I. V. I., Co. C, 
veteraned Dec. 22, 1863; mustered out Jan. 21, 1866; enlisted as private; dis- 
charged as Sergeant ; has been Assessor, Pathmaster, Collector and School Director ; 
Wessel, born Jan. 20, 1847, died in 1850 ; Schwantje, born Aug. 20, 1849, died 
in 1849; Wesley, born June 11, 1852; Anna, born Aug. 31, 1854, died in 1869; 
John, born Dec. 20, 1857, died in 1859. In politics, Republican ; in religion, Lutheran. 
Has been School Director for seventeen years. 

li. HEfflEXWAY, dealer in lumber, Ridott; born in Illinois in 1849; 
engaged in farming until July 4, 1868, when he and wife traveled until March 1, 1869 ; 
worked out from March 1, 1869, until Oct. 1, 1869; then bought an interest in the 
mill; sold out May 1, 1870; then went to Colorado; bought a half-interest in 160 
acres of land, and farmed until Oct. 1, 1870, when he sold out and went to Kansas ; 
rented a farm, and farmed until October, 1871 ; then returned to Colorado Territory ; 
bought a farm of 160 acres of land, and 160 acres of timber; farmed until Sept. 1, 
1873 ; sold out and came to Illinois ; bought a farm of 166 acres of land in Sec. 36, 
Ridott Township, and farmed until March 1, 1875 ; then rented the farm and went to 
Colorado and rented a farm and a lot of stock, and farmed until Oct. 1, 1876 ; then 
sold out and came to Illinois ; went on to his farm, and remained until Jan. 1, 1879 ; 
then rented the farm and bought out the timber business in Ridott, and still in business. 
His wife, Cynthia J. Cole, was born in Stephenson Co., 111., Nov. 13, 1851 ; married 
in 1868, and have three children — William N., born in Stephenson Co., March 25, 
1870 ; Emma O, born in Colorado Territory, June 17, 1872 ; Elizabeth May, born 
in Stephenson Co., April 15, 1877. In politics, Republican ; in religion, Liberal. 
Has been School Director. 

PETER HERRMANN, farmer, Sec. 6 ; P. O. Freeport ; was born in Bad 
Bad in 1836 ; came to America July 4, 1852 ; worked for one year as hired man, and 
then his father bought 100 acres of land, and Peter lived at home until 1860, when he 
bought and now owns 140 acres of land, with fine stone barn 34x46-feet, 16-foot 
corners, with bank stable, good house and outbuildings. His wife, Catharine Roth, 
was born in Bad Bad in 1840 ; married in 1860 ; died in 1872 ; left three children — 
Elizabeth (deceased) ; Cathrine and Matilda ; second wife, Miss Ellen Kimbell, afterward 
Mrs. Stoskopf, born in Alsace, France, in 1841 ; married in 1875. In politics, Demo- 
crat ; in religion, Liberal. Has been School Director, Pathmaster and grand juror in 
1877. 

A BR A If AM B. HERSHEY (deceased) ; born in Upper Canada in 1812 ; 
came to Illinois in 1852, and settled in Rock Run Township, Stephenson Co. ; then 
went to Fayette Co., Iowa, Fayette Village; remained there four years; then returned 
to Silver Creek Township ; remained there until five years ago, when he came to Ridott ; 
he died Sept 28, 1878. His wife, Elizabeth Snyder, was born in Albany Co. ; N. Y., 



782 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES : 

in 1810, and married in 1835, and had seven children — Nancy, was Mrs. Brubucker, 
and died in March, 1864, while on a visit home, in Iowa ; Mary, now Mrs. Wagoner, 
born Jan. 6, 1837 ; Francis, born in Canada, July 7, 1840 ; died Jan. 6, 1848 ; Will- 
iam, born Oct. 11, 1845, now in Nebraska; Elizabeth, born Aug. 6, 1845; died July 
30, 1846; Abraham, born Dec. 27, 1848, now in Iowa; Allen J., born Oct. 21, 1852. 
Sold a farm of 160 acres of land in Silver Creek Township, July 16, 1880. 

J. A. HER^HEY, farmer, Sec. 35 ; P. O. Ridott ; born in Lancaster Town- 
ship, Stephenson Co., in 1852, and bought 148 acres of land, and made the improvements. 
His wife, Annie Friday, was born in Michigan, town of Springfield, Oakland Co., in 
1858, and they were married in 1875, and have one child — Alice Julia, born Nov. 2, 
1878'. In politics, Republican; in religion, Methodist; was School Director for 1880. 

THOMAS HUNT, farmer, Sec. 9 ; P. O. Ridott ; born in Nottingham, 
England, 1818; came to America in 1842; settled in the precinct of Silver Creek, 
afterward Ridott Township ; bought 40 acres of timber land and built three log houses 
in company with a colony that came from the old country with him ; he is the last 
living representative in this county ; Mr. Fairburn died in December last ; he now 
owns 360 acres of, land, and a large stone house, barns, and a 30-foot wind-mill for 
grinding use ; planted grove of 40 acres. His wife, Mary Ann Kirk, was born in 
Nottinghamshire, England, in 1821; married in May, 1842; they have had twelve 
children— Infant born in 1843, died in 1844; Jane, now Mrs. White, in Ackley, Iowa, 
was born Feb. 10, 1844; Joseph, in Hardin Co., Iowa, born Feb. 4, 1846; Susanna, 
now Mrs. Lenard Stoskopf, in Freeport, born Dec. 22, 1847 ; William, at home, born 
Sept. 6, 1853 ; Ellen, now Mrs. William Lamb, in Ridott, born Nov. 2, 1851 ; Annie, 
now Mrs. Crabtree, in Lee Co., born Sept. 9, 1855 ; Thomas, born May 4, 1858, died 
Dec. 10, 1861; Douglas, born Jan. 27, 1860, died Sept. 20, 1863 , Thomas Forsytha, 
born Jan. 1, 1862 ; Ellen Marinda, born April 1, 1849, died April 19, 1849; Infant 
boy, born 1848, died 1848. William is in company with his father on the 
farm ; his wife, Jennie Burdick, was born in Stephenson Co., April 25, 1858 ; married, 
Sept. 12, 1877, and have one child — Mary, born in May 9, 1879. Mr.^ Thomas Hunt 
has been Justice of the Peace, four times Town Treasurer. In politics, Democrat ; 
in religion, Free Thinker. 

BAL.STER JELDERKS, farmer, Sec. 17; P. O. Ridott; born in 
Germany, 1816; came to America in 1850 ; bought 40 acres of land and made the 
improvements, and now owns 100 acres of land. His wife, Jane Meir, was born in 
Germany, in 1818 ; married in 1837 ; had two children, both died in infancy. In 
politics, Republican ; in religion, Dutch Reformed ; has been Pathmaster ; they have 
one son by adoption — Batsler Jelderks, Jr., born in Stephenson Co. in 1857 ; working 
his father's place. His wife, Bena Weeimann, born in Germany, in 1861 ; married, in 
1878, and have one child — Jane, born January, 1879. In politics, Democrat ; in religion, 
Dutch Reformed. 

NELL JOHNSON, farmer, Sec. 29 ; P. O. Ridott ; born in Hanover in 
1837; came to America in 1853 ; bought 185 acres of land; made the improvements 
and now owns 300 acres of land; he died June 13, 1878. His wife, Cathrine Green- 
field, was born in Hanover, Germany, in 1840 ; came to America in 1851 ; married, 
1863, and have had six children — Hiram, born Nov. 26, 1863, died in 1868 ; Johanna, 
born Feb. 26, 1865 ; Berend, born Dec. 30, 1867 ; Tillie, born Feb. 14, 1869 ; 
Hiram, born March 17, 1876; Henry, born April 15, 1878. Pathmaster. 

WESLEY JOHN, wagon-maker, Ridott ; born in Guernsey Co., Ohio, in 
1821, and went to Pennsylvania, and in 1851 came to Illinois and bought 40 acres of 
land, and remained until 1857, and made most of the improvements, and then went 
to Winnebago Co., and remained until after the war. He enlisted in the 15th I. V. I., 
in 1861, and was discharged in 1863, and returned to Winnebago Co., andin 1867 came 
to Stephenson Co., and opened a shop ; he owns town property, and made the improve- 
ments ; his wife, Ellen Allen, was born in Center Co., Penn., in 1819, and was mar- 
ried in 1845, and have had six children — Thomas W., painter, in Ridott ; Mary 



RIDOTT TOWNSHIP. 783 

Elizabeth, teaching in Ridott High School ; Julia Emeline, now Mrs. Kear, in Ridott , 
Adelbert A., minister of the Advent denomination ; Hiram, deceased; infant daughter, 
deceased. In politics, Republican ; in religion, Friend. Has been Director of Schools. 

JOHN W. KAKCHER, farmer, Sec. 7 ; P. 0. Freeport ; born in Ste- 
phenson Co., in 1842; engaged in farming until 1862, then learned the confectioner's 
business in Freeport, and worked there three years, then returned to the farm ; he owns 
300 acres of land, and made the improvements on the place also; 160 acres in Hardin 
Co., Iowa, improved; 80 acres in Champaign Co., 111., improved. His wife, Annie E. 
Shaw, was born in Pennsylvania, in 1843 ; married in 1866 ; have had five children — 
Edward Clarance, Ida Ellen, Johnnie Elmer, deceased, December, 1876 ; William 
Leonard and Albert John. In politics, Republican ; in religion, Liberal. Has been 
School Director. 

J. A. KEER, of the firm of Keer Bros., dealers in general merchandise, 
Ridott; born in Clinton Co., Penn., in 1840; came to Stephenson Co. in 1846, with 
his parents, who entered land ; his parents are both dead ; J. A. engaged in farming for 
five years, and in 1871, began the mercantile business in Ridott; he owns town prop- 
erty, also 47 acres of land, on which he has improved ; has 160 acres of land in Hardin 
Co., Iowa. His wife, Rebecca Sibert, was born in Ohio in 1843, and came to Stephen- 
son Co. in 1856 ; married in 1862, and have three children — Kittie, born Aug. 7, 1863 ; 
George, born June 8, 1872 ; Le Roy, born Nov. 6, 1874. Has been School Director, 
Trustee, Collector and Constable ; in politics, Democrat ; in religion, United Brethren. 

HENRY LEASE, farmer, Sec. 3 ; P. O. Ridott ; born in Pennsylvania, 
in 1803 ; came to Illinois in 1854 ; bought and owns 40 acres of land, and made the 
improvements. His wife, Eliza Thompson, was born in Pennsylvania, in 1807, and 
married in 1835 ; have had four children — Sarah, now Mrs. John Foster, in Hardin 
Co., Iowa ; Charles L., at Denison, Texas ; Hannah E., deceased ; J. T., born in Penn- 
sylvania, in 1845, came to Illinois with his parents, and owns 80 acres of land, also im- 
proved land in Iowa, 160 acres. His wife, Lizzie McKibbin, was born in Stephenson 
Co., 111., in 1846 ; married in 1878. In politics, Democrat ; in religion, Liberal. Has 
been Pathmaster and Collector three years. 

G. W. LOVELAND, hotel and livery, Ridott ; born in Madison Co., N. Y. r 
in 1825, and came to Stephenson Co. in 1854; owns 163 acres of land in Rock Run 
Township, Sees. 11 and 12. also town property ; has made the improvements both on the 
farm and the town property. His wife, Lucy J. Watson, was born in Madison Co., N. Y., 
in 1827, and married in 1849, and they have had two children — Clarence L., conductor 
on the C. & N. W. R. R. between Rockford and Chicago, with his home at Rockford, 
and George R., a carpenter by trade, and living at home. Has been Justice of the 
Peace for seventeen years. In politics, Republican ; in religion, liberal. Was School 
Director for a number of years ; Collector for the years 1860 and 1861. 

W. K. McGILLIGAN, Assistant Agent C. & N. W. R. R., Ridott ; born 
in Pennsylvania, Lancaster Co., in 1845 ; came to Stephenson Co. in 1854. Enlisted 
in the 46th I. V. I., in December, 1863; was discharged in February, 1866. His 
wife, Jennie Lincoln, was born in Vermont in 1848; married in 1866; have had four 
children — Nettie, Emma, Charlie and Joseph. In politics, Republican ; in religion, 
liberal. Has been Trustee of the village of Ridott. 

J. MILLER, farmer, Sec. 25 ; P. O. Pecatonica ; born in Germany in 1832 ; 
came to America in 1857, and went to Wisconsin, then to Illinois in 1874, and bought 
and owns 118 acres of land. His wife, Dothey Meirs, was born in Germany in 1838, 
and married in 1857, have had five children — Mary (now Mrs. Filcher), Minnie, 
Christ, Emma, Annie. In politics, Democrat ; in religion, Lutheran. 

JOHN MITCHELL. ; P. O. Pecatonica; born in Ohio in 1853 ; came to 
Illinois with fhis parents, then went to Linn Co., Iowa, and engaged in farming; 
returned October, 1878, and has a farm of 240 acres of land; made part of the improve- 
ments. His wife, May Henderson, was born in Illinois in 1852. Married in 1876 - t 



784 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

have had two children — born July 17, 1878, died Jan. 17, 1879 ; and one born May 
8, 1880. In politics, Republican ; in religion, Liberal. 

JACOB MOLTER, farmer, Sec. 7 ; P. 0. Ridott ; born in Germany in 
1815; came to America in 1850, and settled in Stephenson Co. ; bought 80 acres of 
land ; now owns 160, and has made all of the improvements. His wife, Bena Molter, 
was born in Germany in 1822 ; married in 1840 ; died in 1872 ; left six children — 
Jacob, in Ridott ; Daniel, in Ridott ; Phillip, in Silver Creek ; Bena, now Mrs. Ripp- 
berger, in Kane Co. ; Katie, at home ; Johnnie. Margaret Mapes, his second wife, 
was born in Alsace, France, in 1827; married in 1875. In politics, Democrat; in 
religion, Lutheran. 

JACOB MOL.TER. farmer, Sec. 8 ; P. O. Ridott ; born in Baden, Ger- 
many, in 1843 ; came to America in 1850 ; remained at home until he was 21 years of 
age, when he hired to his father for two years, then rented a farm, and now owns 160 
acres of land. His wife, Polly Bardell, was born in Illinois in 1843 ; married in 1866, 
and have had five children — Margaret, born May 27, 1867 ; Henry, born Feb. 25, 
1871 ; Reuben, born April 28, 1873 ; William, born July 1, 1877 ; Albert, born Jan. 
21, 1869; died Aug. 19, 1871. Religion, Evangelical; has been Pathmaster ?.nd 
Assessor. 

SAMUEL MOYER, retired farmer ; P. O. Ridott ; born in Lebanon Co., 
Penn., in 1810 ; came to Illinois in 1863, in the fall, and bought 170 acres of land, on 
which he made improvements ; his wife, Elizabeth Bealer, was born in Lebanon Co., 
Penn., in 1815 ; married in 1833; died May 21, 1867 ; had seventeen children — 

Phillip (at home), Nancy (now Mrs. Hockman, in Kansas), Michael (in Hardin 

Co., Iowa), Elizabeth|(now Mrs. Machaer, in Kansas), Henry (in Kansas), Priscilla 
(Mrs. Steven V. Meater, in Vermont), Catherine (Mrs. St. Clair, in Pennsylvania), 
Sarah (now Mrs. Unanest, in Silver Creek Township), Mary (now Mrs. Groos, in 
Orangville), Leah (now Mrs. Swartz, in Kansas), George W. (in Montgomery Co., 
Kan.), Samuel (fell into a spring and was drowned), Daniel (in Ridott), Rachel (de- 
ceased), Lena (at home), Henrietta E. (in Iowa), Lucetta (now Mrs. Askey, in Iowa). 
In politics, Republican ; in religion, Reformed ; has been School Director nine years, 
Pathmaster, Trustee, Treasurer; there are eighty grandchildren, and three great- 
grandchildren. 

A. J. NILES, farmer, Sec. 2; P. 0. Ridott; born in Ashtabula Co., Ohio, 
in 1815; came to Illinois in 1835; entered land in the timber, near the river; then 
sold out and moved out on the prairie, and bought 120 acres of land, and made the 
improvements ; he now owns 120 acres of land and 23 acres of timber ; has been living 
on this place since 1841 ; the winter of 1835-36 he was in the mines near Galena. His 
wife, Nancy A. Farwell, was born in Orleans Co., N. Y., in 1817 ; married in 1839, 
and had eight children — Marvin (deceased), Ellen (deceased, was Mrs. S. Mitton), 
Homer (living near home), Sidney (in Nebraska), twins, Viola and Orilla (Viola de- 
ceased at the age of 1\ years), Jennie (now Mrs. Tarbert, in Ridott), Augustus (in 
Ridott). In politics, Republican ; in religion, Liberal ; has been Justice of the Peace, 
Assessor, Collector, and Supervisor three times. 

JOHN RADKMAKER, deceased; born in Germany in 1801 ; came to 
America in 1855, and bought 153 acres of land, on which he made the improvements; 
Mr. R. died April 22, 1870. His wife, Rosa Sonwds, was born in Germany, Aug. 2, 
1811 ; married, April 16, 1832, and had three children — Apha (now Mrs. Coleman, in 
Freeport), Maggie (deceased), Hann (married and lives one mile south). 

FOKKE REWERTS, farmer, Sec. 31 ; P. O. Ridott ; born in Germany 
in 1819 ; came to America in 1850 ; bought and now owns 95 acres of land, and made 
all the improvements. His wife, Harmenie Freelings, was born in Hanover in 1818; 
married in 1851 ; has been Pathmaster. 

CHARLES ROHKAR, restaurant and billiards, Ridott ; born in Han- 
over, Germany, in 1826 ; came to America in 1852, was two years in New York, and 
then came to Freeport ; stayed until 1872 ; was engaged as police and Marshal ; 



' RIDOTT TOWNSHIP. 785 

then came to Ridott and engaged in the present business ; owns his town property, made 
all the improvements, and has things in good order. His wife, Dora Barth, was born 
in Hanover in 1822 ; came to America in 1852 ; married in 1847 ; they have had four 
children — Henry, in Rockford, 111., 28 years of age ; Charlie, near Ridott, 22 years of 
age ; Caroline, 19 years of age ; Margaret, 17 years of age. In politics, Democrat; in 
religion, Lutheran ; was Elder in the Dutch Reformed Church in Freeport, and is now 
Constable. 

HENRY SCHEFFNER, farmer, Sec. 18 ; P. 0. Freeport ; born in 
Baden, 1845; came to America in 1852, farming 240 acres of land belonging to his 
father-in-law, Jacob Bardell. His wife, Cathrine Bardell, was born in Stephenson Co. 
in 1846 ; married in 1867, and have had nine children — Elizabeths., Anna Jane, Will- 
iam Henry, Charlie G., deceased ; George G., Liddie, Jacob, John and Maggie. In 
politics, Republican ; in religion, Evangelical Methodist, and a local preacher ; has been 
Trustee of the circuit and of the church ; is now Commissioner of Highways, and class- 
leader in the church. 

JOHN SCHEFFNER, farmer, Sec. 18; P. 0. Freeport; born in Baden, 
Germany, in 1818 ; came to America in 1852, to Stephenson Co., and bought 80 acres 
of land, on which he made the improvements, and now owns 160 acres. His wife, 
Maglend Zahn, was born in Baden in 18r4 ; married in 1843, and had five children — 
Henry, born Nov. 20, 1844 ; Susan, born July — , 1850, now Mrs. Klerer ; John, born 
June 14, 1832 ; Florence, born June 15, 1854 ; Cathrine, born June — , 1859, died 
Aug. 3, 1875. In politics, Republican ; in religion, Evangelical. 

ABRAM SCHL.EICH, farmer, Sec. 8 ; P. O. Ridott ; born in Baden, Ger- 
many, in 1826 ; came to America and to Stephenson Co., in 1852, and bought 40 acres 
of land ; now owns 225 acres of land, with fine improvements, and 110 acres in Silver 
Creek, improved. His wife, Anna Schmidt, was born in Germany in 1830 ; married 
in 1850, and have four children — Samuel, born June 8, 1852, lives near home ; John, 
born Sept. 28, 1853 ; Lizzie, born Sept. 18, 1857 ; Henrv, born May 9, 1859. In 
politics, Democrat ; in religion, Lutheran ; has a large barn, 36x52, sixteen-foot corn- 
posts, good house and a very nice place. 

JOHN STAHL, proprietor of Ridott Mills, Sec. 23 ; born in Union Co., 
Penn., in 1823 ; came to Illinois in 1871 to Cedarville, and then to Lena, then to Shannon, 
Carroll Co. ; then returned to Lena, then to Ridott, and bought the mill property for- 
merly owned by Holmes & Williams, April, 1878 ; has improved the mill very much 
and now does work second to none in the county ; his wife, Hannah Irwin, was born in 
Pennsylvania, Blair Co., in 1829 ; married in 1851 ; died Dec. 8, 1869, and left five 
children — Edmund P., in Lena, engaged in the butter and egg business ; Frank Floyd, 
in Lena, in the marble business ; Amelia Bell, now Mrs. Adams, at Cedarville ; Jose- 
phine Maggie, at home ; Robert Irvin, at home. In politics, Democratic ; in religion, 
Presbyterian ; is now Ruling Elder in the Lena Church. 

MATHIAS TUIIMS, farmer„Sec. 30; P. O. Ridott; born in Germany, in 
1831 ; came to America in 1854 ; bought and owns 40 acres of land ; made the improve- 
ments. His wife, Sarah Otto, was born in Center Co., Penu., in 1833; came to Illinois 
in 1845, and married in 1858, and have five children — John Harvey, born Nov. 8, 
1862 ; Johanna, born Oct. 26, 1861, died,Feb. 8, 1864 ; Galen Otto, born July 24, 1866 ; 
Wenetta V., born Oct. 24, 1870, died Feb. 8, 1871 ; Eva Iona, born May 13, 1873. 

MICHAEL. VAN OOSTERLOO, deceased, was born in Hanover, Ger- 
many in, 1818 ; came to America in 1849 ; bought a claim of 160 acres of land, made tho 
first improvements and now owns 160 acres, well improved ; he died Dec. 20, 1870, of 
blood cancer ; his wife, Margaret Van Loh, was born in Hanover in 1823. Married; 
in 1843, and have had ten children — Annie, born Jan. 26, 1847, now Mrs. Boches ; 
Grace, born April, 1849, died Dec. 29, 1849 ; Daniel, born April 18, 1851 ; Grace, 
May 28, 1853; John, Julv 30, 1855 ; Laurance, Dec. 10, 1857, died Sept. 15, 1864 ; 
Margaret, born Oct. 18, 18"60; Michael, born Feb. 19, 1863, died Sept. 23, 1864, 
Johanna, born Dec. 23, 1864; Laurance, Oct. 4, 1867. 



786 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: 

J OS HTII WAGNER, farmer, Sec. 35; P. 0. Ridott ; bom in Center 
Co., Penn.; in 1831 ; came to Illinois in 1853 ; he owns 147 acres of land, on which 
he has made all of the improvements ; his wife, Miss Mary Hershey, was born in 
Canada in 1837. Was married in 1855, and have, had three children — Abraham, in 
Wright Co., Iowa, Nancy and William, at home. In politics, Republican ; in religion, 
United Brethren. He has been Pathmaster and School Director. 

H. P. WATERS, farmer, Sec. 30 ; P. 0. Ridott ; born in New York in 
1815 ; came to Chicago in 1833, and remained about three years in the old New York 
House, corner of State and Lake streets ; he then went on a farm sixteen miles from 
the city ; he came to the mouth of Yellow Creek in 1836, January 7, and engaged in 
splitting rails, and in the spring went to Kirk's Grove to put up a mill, known as 
Watterman's Still, and then returned to Silver Creek, where he took up a claim of 300 
acres of land and improved some ; he sold out to Stebbins & Bilkly, and came to Ridott 
and took up a claim of 300 acres, and now owns 300, on which he has made some fine 
improvements ; a fine house, main part 32x32, wing 24x20 ; he had some trouble with 
the Indians the first winter, his wife, Mary Lloyd, was born in Canada, in 1825. They 
were married in Stephenson Co., and have had eight children — Clara, now Mrs. 
McCracken, at home, with three children ; Cornelia, deceased ; Gardner J., born April 

I, 1849, was drowned July 4. 1858 ; Lida, Fred, Carrie, Oliver and Emma. In politics, 
he is a Republican ; in religion, Liberal. He has been Overseer of the Poor, and was 
one of the first clerks of election, with Rash Hunt; the judges were John Hoge, 
David Wootan and Sayer Forbs ; he helped to build the first meeting-house in Ridott, 
which was for the United Brethren. 

EDWARD WEIK, farmer. Sec. 5 ; P. O. Ridott; born in Baden in 1837 . 
came to America in 1852, and then to Freeport ; was clerk in a store; then went into' 
the livery business. Enlisted Sept. 10, 1861, in the 46th I. V. I., and mustered out 
Feb. 20, 1864; enlisted as a private and came out Captain of Company C. ; then bought 
80 acres of land. His wife, Paulina Lippmann, was born in Germany April 19, 1846; 
came to America in 1850 ; married Nov. 30, 1865, and have had six children — Frank 
R., born March 2, 1868; William G., born July 29, 1871 ; Edward L., born Dec. 5, 
1875; died Feb. 10, 1875; Albert, born Feb. 7, 1876; died Feb. 18, 1876; Henry, 
born Aug. 16, 1879. In politics, Democrat; in religion, Liberal. Has been School 
Director six years, Collector 1871-72, Assessor 1879-80, Constable four years, and 
Pathmaster for 1880. 

DAVID J. WITTER, farmer, Sec. 28; P. O. Ridott; born in Washing- 
ton Co., Md., in 1835 ; came to Illinois with his parents, and now owns I665 acres of 
land and made the improvements. His wife, Elizabeth Siebert, was born in Stark Co., 
Ohio, June 1, 1840; came to Illinois in 1853; married Dec. 25, 1862, and had five 
children— Luella R., born Oct. 9, 1863 ; Sarah Allie, born July 10, 1866 ; William 
Siebert, born March 11, 1870 ; Edith Rebecca, born Sept. 25, 1871, and Floyd R.. 
born June 3, 1880. In politics, Democrat; in religion, United Brethren. Has been 
Pathmaster and Assessor, School Director, Trustee in the church, Class-Leader, and 
an honest, industrious man. 

W. Gr. WOODRUFF, farmer, Sec. 11 ; P. O. Pecatonica ; born in New 
Marlboro, Berkshire Co., Mass., in 1819 ; went to Connecticut, then to New York, 
then to Carroll Co., 111., in 1840, and bought 85 acres of land; sold and went to Rock- 
ford one year, then to Boone Co., and bought 120 acres of land, and improved it; 
remained six months, sold and came to Stephenson Co., and bought 170 acres in Sec. 

II, 120 in Rock Run, 160 in Ridott, and has a beautiful home place. His wife, Mary 
C. Tucker, was born in Tompkins Co., N. Y., April 30, 1821 ; came West in 1840 ; 
married March 8, 1842, and have had three children — Harriett E., born March 22, 
1843, died March 11, 1856 ; Francis A., born Dec. 24, 1845, died Aug. 8, 1874, was 
Mrs. Colby, in Freeport; Emily C, born April 9, 1850, and at home. In politics, 
Republican ; in religion, Liberal. Has been Road Commissioner several times, and 
Assessor twice. 



PASSENGERS BOUND FOR 



CALIFORNIA, COLORADO, NEBRASKA, 

DAKOTA, WISCONSIN, MINNESOTA, MONTANA, 

And the Territories, should, if they would consult their interest, 
buy their tickets via the 

Chicago & North - Western Railway. 

This ia the LEADING RAILWAY of the 

WEST AND NORTHWEST. 



This important system of Railway Lines is one of the Largest Corporations in the World, owning and 
operating, under one management, nearly 

3,000 MILES OIF IR/O-A-ID 



Its Lines run from Chicago in ho many directions that it is necessary to designate its Lines by certain specific 
names, which will give a correct idea to the passenger of the part of country each line traverses. These Lines, 
numbering nine, are 'as follows: 



Chicago, Council Bluffs & California Line, 
Chicago, Sioux Citv & Yankton Line, 
Chicago, Clictorj, Dubuque & La Crosse Line, 
Chicago, Freeport & Dubuque Line, 



Chicago, La Crosse & Winona Line, 
Chicago, Minnesota & Dakota Lme, 
Chicago, St 1 Paul & Minneapolis Line, 
Chicago, Milwaukee & Lake Superior Line, 



Chicago, Green Bay & Marquette Line. 

These Lines enable the "CHICAGO & NORTH-WESTERN" to reach all principal points in the WFST, NORTH- 
WEST ami, through its connections, the FAR WEST. 

It offers every facility for Quick, Safe and Comfortable Transit to the traveler who selects this as his route. 

It stands second to no road in the West, and offers inducements and advantages that are not and cannot be offered 
by any of its competitors. 

Its management adopts every improvement kuown to the modern Railway System, and is determined that the 
CHICAGO i NORTH-WESTERN RAILWAY shall remain the LEADING Bailway of the GREAT WEST. 



Passengers should ask for and be certain their Tickets have a Coupon which reads, over the 

"CHICAGO & NORTH-WESTERN RAILWAY." 

All Ticket Aleuts will be ^lad 10 sell tliem via this Xine. • 



1EMBEB ! — PULLMAN HOTEL CUBS to m ^Wi«SfflZaffl8 

& NORTH-WESTERN RAILWAY. «6F*BEAR IN MIND.no other road runs Pullman Hotel Cars, 
or any form of Hotel Cars, THROUGH between Chicago and the Missouri River. This is the only Line that has 
THROUGH EATING CARS of any sort. 



No Transfer at St. Paul via the Chicago & North- Western Railway. 

Passengers procuring tickets to points beyond ST. PAUL should use GREAT CARE to see 
that they read over the 

CHICAGO k NORTH-WESTERN RAILWAY, OR THE CHICAGO, ST. PAUL & MINNEAPOLIS LINE. 

And not over a route having a SIMILAR NAME, as this is 

»The Only Route You Can Take to Avoid a Change of Depot at St. Paul.**®* 



NEW YORK OFFICE— No. 415 Broadway. 

BOSTi )N OFFICE— No. 6 State Street. 

CHICAGO TICKET OFFICES— 62 Clark Street, under 
Sherman House, 75 Canal Street: Kinzie Street 
Depot, Palmer House, Grand Pacific Hotel, Wells 
Street Depot. 

MILWAUKEE CITY TICKET OFFICE— 102 Wiscon- 
sin Street. 

ST. PAUL TICKET OFFICE— Cor. Third and Jackson 
Streets. 



MINNEAPOLIS TICKET OFFICES— 13 Nicollet House, 
and St. Paul & Pacific Depot. 

COUNCIL BLUFFS TICKET OFFICES— Corner Broad- 
way and Pearl Street, Union Pacific Depot; and 
Chicago & North-Western Railway Depot. 

OMAHA TICKET OFFICES— Union Pacific Depot, and 
1324 Farnam Street. 

SAN FRANCISCO OFFICE— 2 New Montgomery Street 

LONDON, ENGLAND, OFFICES— 149 Strand, and 3 
Adelaide Street. 



LB My '30 






^ 



